The Great Wolf is the supreme leader of the Space Wolves, a Space Marine Chapter. He’s their equivalent of a Chapter Master, and he also rules as high-king of Fenris. It’s the top job in the Chapter, and right now Logan Grimnar holds it.
What the Great Wolf does
The Great Wolf commands the entire Space Wolves Chapter. He’s chosen from the Wolf Lords, who lead the Chapter’s Great Companies. Once elected, he becomes both military commander and high-king of Fenris, the Space Wolves’ home world.
That makes him one of the most powerful figures in the Imperium’s Adeptus Astartes. He answers to the Emperor and the High Lords of Terra in theory, but the Space Wolves have a long history of doing things their own way.
Known Great Wolves
The first Great Wolf was Bjorn, who led the Chapter after the Horus Heresy. Since then, many have held the title. Some are well known from the lore, others only appear in passing.
Harek Ironhelm led during M32 and died at the Battle of the Fang. Arvek Kjarlskar succeeded him. Oberik Kelman was the 23rd Great Wolf and was famous for his terrifying temper. Horist Make-War allowed the creation of the Himhertha Archive around 800.M35. Ulrik Grimfang held the title during the Macharian Crusade. Sigvald Grimhammer came before the current leader.
Logan Grimnar has been Great Wolf for over 600 years. He’s the longest-serving and most famous holder of the title.
- Bjorn: first Great Wolf
- Harek Ironhelm: died at the Battle of the Fang
- Arvek Kjarlskar: succeeded Ironhelm
- Oberik Kelman: 23rd Great Wolf, famously bad-tempered
- Horist Make-War: Great Wolf in late M35
- Ulrik Grimfang: led during the Macharian Crusade
- Sigvald Grimhammer: predecessor to Logan Grimnar
- Logan Grimnar: current Great Wolf
How the title fits the Chapter
The Space Wolves don’t use standard Codex Astartes ranks. Instead of a Chapter Master, they have a Great Wolf. Below him are the Wolf Lords, each commanding a Great Company. The Wolf Guard serve as veterans and bodyguards, and specialists like Rune Priests and Wolf Priests handle spiritual and medical duties.
When a Great Wolf dies or steps down, the Wolf Lords choose a successor from among themselves. It’s not always a smooth process, but it keeps the Chapter’s leadership tied to its fighting companies.
Logan Grimnar’s reign
Logan Grimnar has led the Space Wolves for six centuries. He’s a legendary warrior and strategist, and he’s not afraid to defy the Inquisition or other Imperial authorities when he thinks they’re wrong.
Under his rule, the Space Wolves have stayed fiercely independent. They’ve fought in major campaigns like the First War for Armageddon and the 13th Black Crusade. Grimnar is often called the Old Wolf, and his axe, Morkai, is as famous as he is.
Key facts
- The Great Wolf is the Space Wolves’ equivalent of a Chapter Master.
- He also rules as high-king of Fenris.
- The first Great Wolf was Bjorn.
- Logan Grimnar is the current Great Wolf and has led for over 600 years.
- Great Wolves are chosen from the Wolf Lords.
FAQ
Who is the current Great Wolf?
Logan Grimnar is the current Great Wolf. He’s held the position for over 600 years.
What’s the difference between a Great Wolf and a Chapter Master?
They’re the same rank. The Space Wolves just use their own title instead of the standard Codex one.
How does someone become Great Wolf?
The Wolf Lords choose one of their own to lead the Chapter. It’s an elected position, not inherited.