The Astartes wargear is the standard kit of a Space Marine: power armour, a bolter, and the close-combat weapons and gear that turn a genetically enhanced soldier into the Imperium’s deadliest infantry. It matters because that gear is built for the same job the Marine is, brutal, sustained warfare across any battlefield.
What counts as astartes wargear
The term covers everything a Space Marine carries into battle. That starts with their power armour and the black carapace interface that lets them wear it, then the weapons they choose for a given mission.
It’s not one fixed loadout. A Tactical Marine, an Apothecary on a bike, or a Terminator all draw from the same armoury but take different tools. That flexibility is the point.
- Power armour: ceramite plating wired to the Marine’s nervous system through the black carapace.
- Bolter: the signature .75 calibre rocket-propelled round weapon, effective against infantry and light armour.
- Bolt pistol: a smaller, one-handed bolter for close quarters.
- Astartes chainsword: a motorised blade for melee, standard issue for many squads.
- Twin boltgun: paired bolters mounted on bikes for extra firepower.
- Specialist gear: jump packs, Terminator armour, apothecary tools, and more.
Why it matters on the tabletop
In 10th edition, wargear is what a unit actually shoots and fights with. The same datasheet can be built several ways, and the choices change how the unit performs.
For example, an Apothecary on Bike can take an Astartes chainsword, a bolt pistol, and a twin boltgun. That mix gives it a melee threat, a sidearm, and a mounted gun, so it’s never useless in any phase.
| Unit example | Wargear options |
|---|---|
| Apothecary on Bike | Astartes chainsword, bolt pistol, twin boltgun |
How it connects to the wider lore
Wargear isn’t just stats. Each piece reflects the Marine’s role and the Chapter’s culture. A bolter is mass-produced on forge worlds, while relics and master-crafted weapons are handed down through centuries.
The black carapace is the biological key that makes the armour work. Without it, a normal human can’t use Astartes power armour properly, which is why the gear and the geneseed implants are inseparable.
Key things to remember
If you’re building a list, check the datasheet first. Some wargear is optional, some is fixed, and the points cost can change. The same Marine can be a gunline shooter or a melee brawler depending on what you give them.
And don’t treat the gear as generic. A chainsword isn’t just a sword, it’s a symbol of the Chapter’s aggression. A bolt pistol isn’t just a backup, it’s a statement.
Key facts
- Astartes wargear includes power armour, bolters, bolt pistols, chainswords, and specialist equipment.
- The black carapace implant is required to use Astartes power armour effectively.
- Wargear options vary by unit and are listed on each datasheet in 10th edition.
- An Apothecary on Bike can take an Astartes chainsword, bolt pistol, and twin boltgun.
- Wargear choices affect a unit’s role, from shooting to melee.
FAQ
What is the standard wargear for a Space Marine?
Most Space Marines start with power armour, a bolter or bolt pistol, and a close-combat weapon like an Astartes chainsword. The exact kit depends on their unit type and role.
Can any unit take any wargear?
No. Each datasheet lists the specific options available. For example, an Apothecary on Bike can take an Astartes chainsword, bolt pistol, and twin boltgun, but not a heavy weapon.
Why is the black carapace part of the wargear?
The black carapace is a surgically implanted interface that lets a Marine connect to their power armour. Without it, the armour can’t respond properly, so it’s as much a part of the wargear as the gun.