Are you ready to melt some enemies in Warhammer 40k? If you’re a fan of big guns, explosive action, and vaporizing tanks into nothingness, then the *Meltagun* is the weapon of your dreams. This trusty tool is known for one thing—getting rid of anything that’s too big to be dealt with by normal guns. But let’s dig deeper and see why it’s such a fan favorite, and maybe we’ll uncover some tips and tricks that will make you a Meltagun master!

The Power of the Meltagun: Why It’s So Special
In the vast and violent universe of Warhammer 40k, there’s no shortage of weapons designed to kill everything from space marines to alien horrors. But the Meltagun stands out because it’s a weapon designed to *melt*—yes, literally! With its intense heat and concentrated energy beam, the Meltagun is perfect for destroying tanks, walkers, and even heavily armored enemies. Imagine wielding a flamethrower that burns so hot it can turn steel into liquid—now that’s power!
The key feature here is its **Strength 8** and **AP -4** characteristics, which makes it a real nightmare for those big, tough units. A single shot is enough to put any vehicle in serious trouble. However, its range is relatively short, so you’ll need to get close, which makes using it a bit of a high-risk, high-reward move. Getting too close to your target means you could get blasted before you even get the chance to fire, but the payoff is well worth the risk!
The Dangers of Getting Too Close
While the Meltagun is a powerhouse, it also has some drawbacks that can make players tear their hair out. The most obvious issue? Range. At only 12 inches, you can’t just sit back and fire away like with other guns. You’ll need to get up close to your enemies, which can be dangerous, especially against units that can shoot you back from far away. That means getting too close could put you in the line of fire, and you might end up wishing you’d taken a safer option.
In some battles, this short range can be a major disadvantage, particularly when you’re facing opponents who have long-range heavy artillery or hordes of smaller enemies. That’s when the real challenge begins. Should you risk it? Can you get close enough? Sometimes, it’s just a matter of luck.
Solutions to Your Meltagun Woes
Now that we know the problem, let’s look at some ways to make the most of your Meltagun.
1. **Use Units with Mobility**: Since the Meltagun requires you to get close, using units that can move fast or teleport (like Assault Marines or Inceptors) is a great idea. This allows you to close the gap quickly and get in range without getting gunned down in the process.

2. **Cover Is Your Friend**: Always keep your Meltagun-wielding units behind cover when possible. This can help protect you as you advance toward your target. Use terrain to block incoming fire and get closer to those dangerous tanks and vehicles.
3. **Support from Allies**: While you’re advancing, make sure your teammates are distracting enemies with long-range weapons or blocking enemy fire. That way, your Meltagun users can get in close without taking too much heat.
4. **Target Big Threats First**: One of the best uses for the Meltagun is against heavily armored enemies like Land Raiders or Titans. Prioritize these targets so you can quickly neutralize their massive firepower and give your team an edge.
What Players Are Saying About the Meltagun
Now, what do the players think about the Meltagun? Well, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows—especially when things go wrong.
“I love the Meltagun for taking down big tanks, but the range is so short! I always end up too close, and then my squad gets wiped out before I can do anything,” says one player on Reddit.
Another player has a different perspective: “The Meltagun is awesome when you use it in the right situation. If you play smart and keep your distance, it can easily turn the tide of the battle!”
As you can see, there are mixed feelings, but one thing is clear: when used properly, the Meltagun can be incredibly satisfying. Players love its sheer destructive power, but the challenge lies in getting close without putting yourself in harm’s way.
To Melt or Not to Melt?

In conclusion, the Meltagun is a weapon that requires careful strategy and smart tactics to use effectively. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but if you can master it, you’ll be the bane of tanks and heavy infantry alike. Whether you’re taking down a fortress or blowing up a super-heavy vehicle, the Meltagun is sure to bring some fiery fun to your game.
So, what do you think? Have you ever had a moment of glory (or disaster) with the Meltagun? How do you deal with its short range? Drop your thoughts in the comments—let’s talk about it!
Final Thoughts
The Meltagun is an iconic weapon in Warhammer 40k, offering the power to obliterate the toughest of enemies. While it’s not without its challenges, with the right tactics and a little bit of luck, you can become a true master of this fiery force of destruction. Just remember: the closer you get, the more dangerous it gets—so use your brain as much as your firepower!
Now, it’s your turn—what’s your experience with the Meltagun? Share your stories below!