Black Templars (Warhammer 40,000)

Black Templars are a Space Marine Chapter in Warhammer 40,000 known for relentless, close-combat-focused crusading. They suit players who want the toughness and simplicity of Space Marines with a more aggressive, zealous character. The easiest way in is a Combat Patrol, followed by a few characters and a second infantry squad.

This guide explains how the army plays, what to buy first, how the main kits fit together, and how to paint them. If you are new to the game as a whole, our Warhammer 40,000 guide covers the basics.

What are the Black Templars in Warhammer 40,000?

The Black Templars are one of the best-known Space Marine Chapters. They are descended from the Imperial Fists and are famous for fighting in endless crusades rather than staying in one place. Their identity is faith, discipline and a deep, uncompromising loyalty to the Emperor.

On the tabletop they are Adeptus Astartes, so they share the Space Marine toolbox: durable infantry, strong transports and reliable ranged weapons. The Chapter's flavour pushes the army towards getting stuck in, backed by characters who inspire and protect the line.

How do Black Templars play?

Black Templars reward an aggressive plan. You advance with solid infantry, protect your key fighters and use characters to make your melee units hit harder. Fast units and transports help you reach the enemy before they can whittle you down.

You do not need to be a rules expert to get started. A typical force has three layers:

• Core infantry to hold objectives and absorb fire.
• Elite melee units to break through enemy lines.
• Characters to lead and support them.

The details change as rules are updated, so check the current official publications before building a list.

What should I buy first for a Black Templars army?

Start with the Combat Patrol: Black Templars. It gives you a playable starting force in one box, and it is the simplest way to learn how the army feels before you commit to a larger collection.

After that, add pieces in this order:

1. A second squad of core infantry, such as the Primaris Crusader Squad or the Intercessor Squad for Black Templars.
2. A leader, for example the Black Templars Marshal.
3. One elite or fast unit that suits how you like to play.

This keeps your collection balanced and gives you something useful on the table at every stage.

Which Black Templars kits are worth knowing?

Infantry

The Primaris Crusader Squad is the Chapter's signature infantry kit. It is built for melee-minded battle line duty and carries a lot of Black Templars character. The Intercessor Squad – Black Templars is a more general-purpose option with a ranged emphasis.

For elite close-combat troops, look at the Black Templars Sword Brethren. If you want speed, the Assault Intercessors with Jump Packs can reach the enemy quickly and suit a hard-hitting, mobile playstyle.

Characters

Black Templars have a strong cast of characters, and a few of them make a good centrepiece for an army:

• High Marshal Helbrecht, the Chapter's famous commander.
• Emperor's Champion, a duelling specialist and a favourite among collectors.
• Chaplain Grimaldus & Retinue, a character with attendants in a single set.
• Black Templars Castellan and Black Templars Execrator, both useful leaders for supporting your infantry.
• Black Templars Marshal, a straightforward first leader.
• Captain in Gravis Armour with Master-Crafted Heavy Bolt Rifle, a heavily armoured option for a more defensive core.

The Crusade Ancient – Black Templars is a banner bearer who adds a lot of visual character to a squad or a command group.

Heavy support and shared Space Marine kits

Not every Black Templars unit comes in a Chapter-specific box. The Repulsor is a Space Marine tank and transport that gets your infantry across the table. The Terminator Squad gives you heavily armoured elites. Both are shared Space Marine kits, and you can paint them in Black Templars colours.

How do I paint Black Templars?

The classic scheme is a black armour base with white and red accents, which makes the army look striking even at a basic standard. The look is very forgiving for beginners because large black areas are quick to cover.

If you have not painted before, start with How to start painting Warhammer miniatures. For help choosing paints, brushes and techniques, our Citadel and Warhammer Colour paints guide explains how the ranges work.

A sensible approach is to paint one squad to a good standard, then use the same recipe across the rest of the army. White crosses, tabards and banners are where you can spend extra time. Characters are also worth a little more effort, since they stand out on the table.

What rules and books do I need?

Warhammer 40,000 rules are updated from time to time, so always check what is current. In general you will need the core rules, the rules for your faction and the datasheets for the units you own. Many players also keep a printed or digital copy of the current official updates.

Our complete Warhammer buying guide explains how the different parts of the hobby fit together. It is a good place to start if you are unsure what else you need.

Frequently asked questions

Are Black Templars a good army for beginners?

Yes. They use Space Marine rules, which are generally straightforward, and the black colour scheme is quick to paint. A Combat Patrol gives you a complete starting force in one purchase.

What is the best first Black Templars purchase?

The Combat Patrol: Black Templars is the simplest starting point. It lets you learn the army with a focused set of models, and you can expand from there with infantry and characters.

Are Black Templars the same as other Space Marines?

They share the basic Space Marine foundations but have their own Chapter identity and units. Their style leans towards aggressive close combat, while other Chapters such as the Dark Angels or Blood Angels have their own distinct approaches.

Can I use standard Space Marine kits in a Black Templars army?

Yes, many kits such as the Repulsor and Terminator Squad can be painted and used as Black Templars. Check the current rules to see which units are available to the faction.

Do I need to paint my army to play?

No, many stores and clubs welcome unpainted armies for casual games. Painting is part of the hobby for most people, though, and the Black Templars scheme is one of the easier ones to get on the table.

Other armies to consider

If you are still choosing a faction, it can help to compare armies with different playstyles. The Chaos Space Marines are a darker take on the same basic army type. The Astra Militarum offers large armies of ordinary soldiers and tanks. The Aeldari focus on speed and precision.

Related guides

• Warhammer at Universe TCG: the complete buying guide
• Warhammer 40,000
• Blood Angels (Warhammer 40,000)
• Chaos Space Marines (Warhammer 40,000)
• Dark Angels (Warhammer 40,000)
• Astra Militarum (Warhammer 40,000)
• Aeldari (Warhammer 40,000)
• Citadel and Warhammer Colour paints: the complete guide
• How to start painting Warhammer miniatures