The multi-melta is the heavy, multi-barrelled big brother of the meltagun, and it’s one of the Imperium’s nastiest close-range anti-tank weapons. It doesn’t punch holes so much as turn tanks, bunkers, and anything standing too close into molten sludge.
What the multi-melta actually does
It’s a heavy melta weapon built around several melta barrels, sometimes called a vaporiser cannon. Compared to a handheld meltagun it reaches further, but it’s still a short-ranged weapon next to most other heavy guns.
Sources describe the firing effect differently. Some say it flashes with a blinding beam of light. Others describe a nearly invisible lance of heat. Either way, the result is the same: armour runs like liquid and infantry caught nearby are simply gone.
- Turns even the thickest personal armour into steaming liquid
- Creatures are reduced to ash, vehicles to twisted goo
- Longer reach than a meltagun, but shorter than most heavy weapons
Who carries it
Because of its bulk, the multi-melta is usually a vehicle weapon. You’ll see it on Leman Russ Demolishers, Land Raider Crusaders, Immolators, Land Speeders, Attack Bikes, Razorbacks, and Dreadnoughts.
Some power-armoured forces do lug them around on foot, most famously Space Marines and the Sisters of Battle. They still have to haul the fuel and power supply, which is why it’s rare to see one outside those ranks.
Known patterns
Like most Imperial hardware, the multi-melta comes in a spread of patterns that vary by era and forge world. Some date back to the Great Crusade and Horus Heresy, while others are more recent or tied to specific factions.
| Pattern | Notes |
|---|---|
| Maxima | Used by the Astartes |
| Sol Militaris | Great Crusade and Horus Heresy era, Space Marines |
| Proteus | Great Crusade and Horus Heresy era |
| Thermic Lance Mk.XI | Used by House Van Saar of Necromunda |
| Firestorm | A named multi-melta pattern |
Why it matters
On the tabletop and in the lore, the multi-melta is the answer to heavy armour at close quarters. It rewards getting in close and punishes anything that lets it line up a shot.
It also shows up as a signature weapon of the Salamanders, whose forge-craft and love of flame make them a natural fit. That connection has made the multi-melta one of the more recognisable Space Marine heavy weapons.
Key facts
- The multi-melta is a heavy, multi-barrelled version of the meltagun, also called a vaporiser cannon.
- It melts armour, vehicles, and infantry at short range, with longer reach than a handheld meltagun.
- Common mounts include Land Raiders, Immolators, Land Speeders, Attack Bikes, Razorbacks, and Dreadnoughts.
- Space Marines and Sisters of Battle can carry it on foot, fuel and power supply included.
- Known patterns include Maxima, Sol Militaris, Proteus, Firestorm, and the Thermic Lance Mk.XI used by House Van Saar.
FAQ
Is a multi-melta better than a meltagun?
It hits harder and reaches further, but it’s heavier and usually vehicle-mounted. A meltagun is the man-portable version.
Can infantry carry a multi-melta?
Yes. Space Marines and Sisters of Battle field them on foot, though they still have to carry the fuel and power supply.
What’s the range like?
Longer than a meltagun, but still short compared to most heavy weapons. It’s a close-range anti-tank gun.