The Legio Custodes Contemptor Dreadnought is one of the standout models in the Legio Custodes Battle Group box set. With two distinct weapon loadouts — the Contemptor-Achillus and the Contemptor-Galatus — magnetizing this kit gives you full flexibility to run either variant without committing to a single build.
In this guide, we'll walk through how to magnetize every swappable component on the Custodes Contemptor so you can switch loadouts between games.
The Two Variants
Contemptor-Achillus
The Achillus is your offensive dreadnought. It's armed with a Dreadspear (with an integrated Lastrum Storm Bolter) and can mount either an Infernus Incinerator or an Adrathic Combi-Destructor on each arm. If you want a dreadnought that hits hard at range and in melee, this is your pick.
Contemptor-Galatus
The Galatus trades offensive output for durability. It carries a Galatus Warblade with a built-in twin-linked Infernus Incinerator and a Praesidium Shield for a defensive profile. Ideal for screening your Custodian Guard or holding objectives.
Why magnetize the Custodes Contemptor
The Custodes Contemptor kit is designed so the forearm assemblies are separate for each variant. That makes this one of the more straightforward dreadnought magnetization projects — the arm sockets are clean and consistent between both builds.
Magnetizing lets you:
- Run the Achillus in aggressive lists and the Galatus in defensive ones
- Adapt to meta changes and point adjustments without buying a second kit
- Keep your options open for both Horus Heresy and Warhammer 40k matched play
Magnet Placement Overview
Shoulder Joints
The shoulder joint is the primary magnetization point. The plastic Custodes Contemptor has a ball-and-socket joint that accepts magnets cleanly. Place disc magnets inside the torso socket and on the flat of the arm ball joint for a strong, flush connection.
Forearm Weapon Swaps
Each variant uses different forearm assemblies. Magnets at the elbow joint let you pop the entire forearm off and swap between the Dreadspear/ranged weapon (Achillus) and the Warblade/Shield (Galatus).
Secondary Weapon Options (Achillus)
The Achillus has a choice between the Infernus Incinerator and Adrathic Combi-Destructor. Small magnets at the wrist mounting point let you swap these secondary weapons.
Finger and hand assembly — redesign in progress
The finger and hand assembly is shared between both the Achillus and Galatus variants. We're currently redesigning the magnetization solution for this specific area to improve the swap experience. The current kit covers all other magnetization points — we'll update this guide and the kit once the redesigned finger and hand solution is ready.
What You'll Need
- Custodes Contemptor Dreadnought Magnetization Kit — pre-sorted N52 magnets for every magnetization point
- Maxi-Cure Super Glue — thick viscosity for gap filling on magnet seats
- The Magnicator — polarity alignment tool (strongly recommended)
Base Magnetization
The Custodes Contemptor Dreadnought sits on a 60mm round base. For transport and storage magnetization, we recommend:
- Medium Thick Flush-Fit Base Magnets — sit flush inside the base cavity for a clean look and strong hold
- 60mm Peel & Stick Base Magnets — no-glue option, peel the backing and press into the base
- 60mm Pre-Magnetized Bases — replacement bases with magnets already installed
Pair any of these with a Plasteel Movement Tray or magnetic transport case for solid model storage.
Tips for a Clean Build
- Dry-fit everything first. Test the arm assemblies before gluing any magnets. The plastic tolerances on this kit are tight, so verify fit before committing.
- Mark polarity before gluing. Use The Magnicator or a permanent marker to mark which pole faces out on every magnet. One wrong polarity and you're prying magnets out with a hobby knife.
- Use thick super glue. Thin CA wicks into places you don't want it. Maxi-Cure's thick formula stays put and fills small gaps around the magnet seat.
- Let each magnet cure fully before testing. Give it 60 seconds minimum. Pulling on a half-set magnet is the fastest way to ruin a clean placement.
More Adeptus Custodes Magnetization Recommendations
Ready to Magnetize?
Pick up the Custodes Contemptor Dreadnought Magnetization Kit and get both loadouts from a single model. Questions on magnet placement? Send them through the contact form.
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