Basics Of Moving Units

A unit can move straight forward any distance up to its Movement value (M) in inches.
In Battleaxe, a basic move for any model, and therefore any unit of models, is to move forward a number of inches up to their Movement characteristic.
Remember that individual models are not permitted to leave their units and so a unit effectively moves as a single entity. If, for whatever reason, there is more than one Move characteristic in the unit, then the entire unit is treated as having the same Move value as the slowest model.
Units are cumbersome, and find it hard to change direction. Models (and units) must move forward in a straight line, unless performing a maneuver, which we'll discuss in a moment.

When moving models, it is a common mistake to measure the distance from the front of the base and then place the model so the back of its base is on the far side of the tape measure. This is incorrect, as it adds the entire length of the model's base (or the unit's bases) to the distance moved. Always use a common measuring point – in this example, the front of the first rank.

The 1" Rule

Whilst moving in the Movement phase, a unit is not allowed to approach closer than 1" to another unit, friend or foe, or impassable terrain.
This rule is purely for clarity. It's important to be able to tell at a glance where one unit stops and another begins. If they're too close together, this can be particularly difficult – especially if both units look the same. Similarly, in the case of two units from opposing sides, the 1" apart rule makes it absolutely clear whether or not the two units are merely close to one another (in which case there will be an inch between them) or in close combat (they'll be in base contact).
You'll notice that this rule does not apply to the charge moves discussed later in The Melee Phase. This is quite sensible, as the whole point of charging is to get a unit into base contact with an enemy. Occasionally, a unit will have approached to within 1" of a unit it did not charge as the result of moving into contact with a unit it did charge. This is perfectly acceptable, although players may wish to nudge the units further apart to maintain a suitable degree of clarity.

Next - Maneuvers >>