Cawdor Firebrand

Partying like it's 1056.

The heavy weapons guy of House Cawdor, Cawdor Firebrands, are the Champions of the House of Redemptionists.

Overview

They are the righteous right hand of the Cawdor's Word-Keepers and Firebrands are ever ready to dispense holy justice in the name of their faith. Well-practiced and determined fighters, Firebrands' gifts for violence are further supplemented by a significantly better selection of weaponry than most Cawdor Brethren. Which they are more than happy to use on the enemies of the Redemption.

As they are the champions of the Gang-section of House Cawdor, Firebrands are allowed 'high-tech' weaponry and equipment. These includes a Heavy Crossbow, Longrifle and a Heavy Stubber, as well as Smoke Grenades. They also most likely wear Flak Armour for protection.

In a Cawdor Gang troupe, there is always one Firebrand accompanying the Word-Keeper.

Crunch

On Necromunda, the Firebrand's stats is deceptively confusing as although it states that it is a shooty troop, his skills paradoxically screams combat. The Firebrand is one mixed-up fighter that may look like shit due to his initially, unappealing stats and, frankly, garbage skills (as in "literally the worst choice in the entire game" garbage). However, those who pay attention that his stats is highly complementary for one weapon and one weapon only. The Heavy Crossbow.

While this incredibly good weapon is wasted on a Word-Keeper, the Firebrand’s 3+ BS fits perfectly with this absolute banger of a weapon. If you’re looking for a cheap ranged support option, like if the crossbow is out of reach at gang creation, then a longrifle is a great choice for the Cawdor gang on a budget. Heavy Stubber is also an option, but with its' price (both in in-game points and actual money for FW upgrade) you may be better off with just another Heavy Crossbow. Skills-wise, you’re going to want to go with something defensive from the Combat tree, as you’re not going to get any mileage out of anything else (unless you’re playing a Lost Zone campaign). While they’re a little unassuming, it’s fair to say that each and every Cawdor gang needs at least one Firebrand for their ranged support abilities. Be warned that in campaigns a visit to a Trading Post for Suspensor is pretty much a must, because the moment a stray bullet hits your Champion, he becomes Pinned and, therefore, unable to shoot during his next activation.