Player
A Player is the actual person moving Models and making rolls, the Player of the game. Battles will include more than one Player, and the Rules will often refer to the Active Player (the Player currently taking their Player Turn) and the Reactive Player (the Player not currently taking their Player Turn, and thus only allowed to interact with the game through Reactions) in order to differentiate between them. Sometimes the Rules will also refer to the Controlling Player, that is the Player that Controls the Unit, Model or other game element the Rule is referring to.
Advanced Reactions
Advanced Reactions are more complex ploys and tactical tricks that can be made by commanders in the heat of Battle. They may only be used by the Reactive Player and require the expenditure of Reaction Points in order to be used, following the general Rules presented for Core Reactions. Unlike Core Reactions, which represent the most common types of Reaction and will see use in most Battles, Advanced Reactions represent rarer situations and depending on the Armies in use may not see use in some Battles.

This rulebook presents a number of Advanced Reactions that may be made by a Player of any Faction or Allegiance. Future publications may present additional Advanced Reactions that may only be used by Players of a specific Faction or Allegiance, or that cover more niche situations.

The following Advanced Reactions are presented in this section:

The Solar Auxilia Trait is used in the following Solar Auxilia datasheets:

High Command
Command
Retinue
Heavy Assault
Troops
Support
Lords of War
War Engine
Transport
Heavy Transport
Elites
Recon
Fast Attack
Armour

The Infantry Tercio Trait is used in the following Solar Auxilia datasheets:

Command
Troops
Vanguard (X)

Warriors trained to break the foe’s lines are often at the forefront of their host, but are ill-suited to holding ground in the face of an enemy counter-attack.

A Unit that includes Models with this Special Rule can score Victory Points for destroying enemy Units.

The Controlling Player of a Unit that includes a majority of Models with the Vanguard (X) Special Rule scores Victory Points equal to the value of X when:
The Vanguard (X) Special Rule may only be used to score Victory Points once per Objective per Player Turn. If a Unit includes Models with different values of X for this Special Rule, the Controlling Player may select which one is used. A Unit that includes a majority of Models with the Vanguard (X) Special Rule may only ever score 1 Victory Point for Controlling an Objective, regardless of that Objective’s value or any other bonuses.
Disembarking
Disembarking covers the Rules for moving Units ‘out’ of Transports.

During the Move Sub-Phase, a Player may select a Model with the Transport Sub-Type that they control, for the purpose of Disembarking. If they do, they may choose to Disembark a Unit Embarked upon that Model (as long as that Unit did not Embark in the same Movement Phase). A Transport Unit may only be selected for the purposes of Disembarking before it is selected to Move or after it has finished moving, not part way through a Unit’s move.
Cavalry

Cavalry use their fast speed to strike deep into enemy territory and escape before their opponent is able to react. This type includes units mounted on bikes, jetbikes, land speeders and even traditional cavalry mounted on riding beasts.

The following Rules apply to all Models with the Cavalry Type:
Initiative (I) – The Initiative Characteristic is primarily used to determine the order in which Models make attacks during Combat, with Models with a higher Initiative Value making attacks before those with lower values. For more details, see the Set-up Move Distance for the Assault Phase. When a Model’s Initiative Characteristic is reduced to 0, then that Model will generally be forced to attack after other Models, but suffers no other penalty.
The Flyer Sub-Type
The following Rules are exceptions to the Core Rules that always apply to a Model with the Flyer Sub-Type at all times during a Horus Heresy Battle:
Heavy (X)

Some weapons are so heavy that, while they can be fired on the move, are more powerful when properly braced and made ready before shooting. Warriors on the battlefield must use their judgement to decide when speed is required and when the full firepower of their arsenal must be unleashed.

Weapons with the Heavy (X) Special Rule gain +1 to a Characteristic when Stationary.

When making a Shooting Attack with a Weapon that has the Heavy (X) Special Rule, a modifier of +1 is added to a Characteristic if the Model with that Weapon is part of a Unit that remained Stationary in the Controlling Player’s previous Movement Phase. If the Characteristic listed is AP, then instead it improves the AP by one Step (see the Rules for modifying Saves and AP). The value of X in the specific variant of the Heavy (X) Special Rule determines which Characteristic gains the +1 modifier.
Barrage (X)

Long range artillery fire is the terror of any infantry advance, striking its targets no matter what cover they seek or where they attempt to take shelter.

A Weapon with this Special Rule may be used to attack Target Units out of Line of Sight.

If a Unit for which a Shooting Attack is made includes any Models with one or more Weapons with this Special Rule, then in Step 2 of the Shooting Attack process they may ignore the restriction on requiring Line of Sight to a Target Unit. If a Player uses this Special Rule to declare a Shooting Attack on a Unit that the attacking Unit cannot draw a Line of Sight to, then in Step 3 of the Shooting Attack process that Player may only declare attacks with Weapons that have this Special Rule.

If a Weapon with this Special Rule and the Blast (X) Special Rule is used to attack a Unit without Line of Sight to that Unit, then no Hit Test is made and an Indirect Scatter Roll must be made for the Blast Marker placed as part of the attack. If such a Weapon makes more than a single attack then a separate Indirect Scatter Roll is made for each attack. When making an Indirect Scatter Roll for such an attack, the number of Dice rolled alongside the Scatter Dice is determined by the value of X for the Weapon with the Barrage (X) Special Rule, the value of these Dice is then totalled to find the distance the attack Scatters.
Pinning (X)

The crack of the sniper’s rifle or the burst of heavy artillery, both signal a sudden and indiscriminate death and send infantry scurrying for cover. Such weapons are meant as much to pin the foe in place as to kill them, breaking up advancing ranks of troops and shattering defensive formations.

Weapons and other attacks that have the Pinning (X) Special Rule have a chance of inflicting the Pinned Status on the Target Unit.

If a Shooting Attack made for a Weapon or Model with this Special Rule inflicts one or more wounds on a Target Unit, regardless of whether any Damage is inflicted, that Target Unit must make a Cool Check in the Morale Sub-Phase of the same Player Turn. If this Check is failed then all Models in the Unit gain the Pinned Status, if the Check is passed then there is no further effect. The value of X attached to this Special Rule is applied as a negative modifier to the Cool Characteristic of Models in the Target Unit when making Checks caused by an attack with this Special Rule, if the attack includes multiple Weapons with different versions of this Special Rule the modifiers do not stack - use only the greatest modifier.
Characteristics and Modifiers
Characteristics can be modified by various Rules and Special Rules, temporarily altering the Base Value of that Characteristic, with the modified value referred to as its Current Value. If no modifiers have been applied to a given Characteristic then its Current Value is the same as its Base Value. The most common modifiers will add or subtract a fixed number from the Characteristics Base Value for a set duration, though some modifiers may multiply or divide the Base Value.

If a Rule calls for a modifier to be applied to a Characteristic that has already been modified, then that modifier is applied to the Current Value, not the Base Value. Modifiers that add or subtract a fixed value to the Characteristic do so to the Current Value and modifiers that multiply or divide the Characteristic multiply or divide the Current Value. Where multiple modifiers are applied to a Characteristic at the same time, any modifiers that multiply the Characteristic and/or modifiers that divide the Characteristic are applied first, then any modifiers that add to or subtract from the Characteristic are applied last.

Designer’s Note
Where any Rules call for multiple modifiers of different kinds to be applied to a value, they are always applied in the following order: multiplication then division, then addition and finally subtraction.

Some modifiers may simply ‘set’ the Current Value of a Characteristic to a specific value instead of modifying the Current Value or Base Value. Such modifiers override all other modifiers and are always applied last, replacing the modified Current Value with the set value.

For example, a Model’s Strength Characteristic has a Base Value of 4 on its Unit Profile.
  • If this Characteristic has a modifier of ‘+1’ applied to it, its Current Value would become 5.
  • If it had modifiers of both ‘+3’ and ‘-1’ applied to it then its Current Value would be 6.
  • If it had a modifier of ‘x2’ applied to it then its Current Value would be 8.
  • If it had a modifier of ‘x2’ and ‘+1’ applied to it then its Current Value would be 9.
  • If a modifier set its value to ‘2’, then its Current Value would be 2.
  • If it had a modifier of ‘x2’ and ‘+1’ applied to it and another modifier also set its value to ‘2’, then its Current Value would be 2.
Expendable (X)

Whether forsaken as oathbreakers or simply deemed beneath their superiors’ notice, there are some warriors for whom death offers neither glory nor honour.

A Player scores less Victory Points when they destroy a Unit that includes only Models with this Special Rule.

The number of Victory Points scored by the opponent when a Unit that includes only Models with this Special Rule is entirely Removed as Casualties, for example, as part of the Vanguard (X) Special Rule, First Strike (X) or Slay the Warlord (X) Mission Special Rules, is reduced by the value of X, to a minimum of 1. If a Unit includes Models with different variants of this Special Rule, then the lowest value of X that was present on any Model in the Unit at the start of the Player Turn in which the last Model in the Unit is Removed as a Casualty is used to determine the effect of this Special Rule on that Unit.

Note that, if, at the start of any Player Turn a Unit includes any Models that do not have this Special Rule, then this Special Rule has no effect on that Unit for the duration of that Player Turn regardless of how many other Models in the Unit may have any variant of this Special Rule.
Initiative Modifier (IM) – This Characteristic is applied as a modifier to a Model’s Initiative Characteristic to determine that Model’s Combat Initiative. A Weapon with an Initiative Modifier of 0 forces the Model attacking with it to set their Combat Initiative to a value of 0. Furthermore, a Weapon with an Initiative Modifier of ‘1’ imposes no modifier to the Initiative Characteristic of a Model.
Attacks Modifier (AM) – This Characteristic is applied as a modifier to a Model’s Attacks Characteristic to determine how many Dice are rolled when making attacks with this Weapon. A Weapon with an Attacks Modifier Characteristic of 0 may not be used to make attacks during the Fight Sub-Phase. Furthermore, a Weapon with an Attacks Modifier of ‘A’ imposes no modifier to the Attacks Characteristic of a Model.
Strength Modifier (SM) – This Characteristic is applied as a modifier to a Model’s Strength Characteristic to determine the Strength used to make Wound Tests in Combat. A Weapon with a Strength Modifier Characteristic of 0 automatically fails any Wound Tests during the Fight Sub-Phase and no Dice are rolled (if the Wound Test could have triggered a variable Special Rule, then that Rule is considered to automatically fail to activate as part of the Test). Furthermore, a Weapon with a Strength Modifier of ‘S’ imposes no modifier to the Strength Characteristic of a Model.
Armour Penetration (AP) – This Characteristic is used to determine if a Model Hit by attacks made with a Weapon may make an Armour Test. Like Saving Throws, lower values are more valuable for this Characteristic. When modifying the Armour Penetration Characteristic the same Rules are used as those for modifying Saving Throws.
Damage (D) – This Characteristic determines how the Wounds or Hull Points Characteristic of a Target Model that fails a Saving Throw after sustaining a wound from a Weapon is modified. A Weapon with a Damage Characteristic of 0 cannot inflict Damage on a Model, regardless of the Weapon’s other Characteristics or Special Rules.
Rules and Special Rules
The term Rule refers to any instructions that allow Players to resolve game actions as part of a Battle, covering all of the interactions between Models and Units (such as moving, Shooting and making Assaults). All of the material in the Principles of Combat, Rules of Battle and Battles in the Age of Darkness sections of this book are considered to be Rules. Special Rules modify how a Rule works, but do not present new basic game instructions, and in this book are mostly found in the Armoury of the Age of Darkness section. In all cases, Special Rules take precedence over Rules where the two present differing instructions.
Traits
Traits are a special kind of Characteristic, one which all Models have but which confers no inherent Rules or benefit on its own. Instead, Traits are used by other Special Rules and effects to target specific Models and apply benefits or penalties. The most common Traits are those for Allegiance and Faction, which are possessed by almost all Models. Allegiance requires that each Model have either the Loyalist or Traitor Trait, and most Models will gain one or more Traits based on the Army List from which they were selected.

For example, a Legionary selected from the Imperial Fists Faction and selected as part of a Loyalist Army would have the Loyalist and Imperial Fists Traits. On their own these Traits have no effect on the Model’s Characteristics, Points cost or other features, but Rules that target Imperial Fists or Loyalist Models will apply their effects to the Model.

In addition to Models, Weapons can also have Traits. These are usually different to those possessed by Models, but are used for the same purposes. Weapons will commonly have Traits that define the type of Weapon it is or a specific type of usage. For example, a bolt pistol has the following Traits: Assault, Bolt. These identify which ‘family’ of Weapons it belongs to for any Rules that might only affect ‘Bolt’ Weapons and notes that it can be used for attacks where only ‘Assault’ Weapons may be used.

While they appear similar to Characteristics, it is important to note that Traits never have a ‘value’ attached to them. Furthermore, Traits cannot be modified in any way by another Special Rule or effect during a Battle, unless a Rule specifically states it affects a Trait.
Breaching (X)

Designed to pierce the armour worn by heavy infantry, some weapons have gained a fearsome reputation on the battlefields of the Horus Heresy. While many such weapons are rare or temperamental in use, the sheer power of their attacks more than makes up for this.

With a Weapon that has the Breaching (X) Special Rule there is a chance that a Wound Test may result in the Wound ignoring Armour Saves.

When any Wound Test is made for an attack with the Breaching (X) Special Rule, if the result of the Dice roll, before any modifiers are applied, is equal to or greater than the value of X attached to this variant of the Breaching (X) Special Rule, then if a wound is inflicted by that Wound Test, that wound becomes a ‘Breaching Wound’.

A Breaching Wound is always treated as having an AP Characteristic of 2 regardless of the Characteristics of the Weapon used to make the attack.
Duellist’s Edge (X)

Some weapons are designed for use in personal challenges rather than the vulgar press of battle. Often light and perfectly balanced, they provide a key edge in duels and bouts of honour.

A Weapon with the Duellist’s Edge (X) Special Rule grants a bonus to Focus Rolls in Challenges.

In Step 3 of the Challenge Sub-Phase, the Focus Step, if a Player has declared that the Model under their control will use a Weapon with the Duellist’s Edge (X) Special Rule or has the Duellist’s Edge (X) Special Rule, then that Player gains a bonus equal to the value of X on the Focus Roll.

Charnabal sabre

Melee Weapon
Melee Weapon
IM
AM
SM
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Charnabal sabre
Charnabal sabre
+1
A
S
-
1
Breaching (6+), Duellist’s Edge (1)
Charnabal

Power sword

Melee Weapon
Melee Weapon
IM
AM
SM
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Power sword
Power sword
I
A
S
3
1
Breaching (6+)
Power

Power fist

Melee Weapon
Melee Weapon
IM
AM
SM
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Power fist
Power fist
-3
A
+4
2
2
-
Power
Range (R) – This Characteristic determines the maximum distance, in inches ("), at which attacks may be made with a Weapon. A Weapon with Range 0 or ‘-’ may not make attacks as part of a Shooting Attack.
Firepower (FP) – This Characteristic is used to determine how many Dice are rolled when making attacks with this Weapon. A Weapon with a Firepower Characteristic of 0 may not be used to make attacks of any kind.
Ranged Strength (RS) – This Characteristic is used only during Wound Tests or Armour Penetration Tests for attacks made using ranged Weapons. If a Weapon has a Strength Characteristic of ‘0’ or then any Wound Tests made for it automatically fail and no Dice are rolled (if the Wound Test could have triggered a variable Special Rule, then that Rule is considered to automatically fail to activate as part of the Test).
Pistol

Compact and deadly, pistols are ideal weapons in close quarters. They lack the sheer range of larger weapons, but can be brought to bear with impressive speed and are no less deadly than their larger counterparts.

A Model may attack with two Weapons that have the Pistol Special Rule.

During Step 3 of any Shooting Attack, a Player may choose to have a Model under their control make attacks with two Weapons rather than one if both Weapons have the Pistol Special Rule.
Rending (X)

Some weapons cleave flesh with ease, inflicting terrible wounds that no mortal toughness can resist. Though of less use against armour and steel, such munitions are capable of tearing bloody holes in the ranks of advancing infantry and stalling any attack in its tracks.

With a Weapon that has the Rending (X) Special Rule, there is a chance that a Hit Test may result in an automatic wound.

When any Hit Test is made for an attack with the Rending (X) Special Rule, if the result of the Dice roll, before any modifiers are applied, is equal to or greater than the value of X attached to this variant of the Rending (X) Special Rule, then if a Hit is inflicted by that Hit Test, that Hit becomes a ‘Rending Hit’.

When required to make a Wound Test for a Rending Hit, no Dice are rolled and the Wound Test succeeds automatically regardless of the Weapon’s Strength or the Target’s Toughness. The Wound Test is treated as if the result had been ‘6’ for the purposes of any Rules that would be triggered on certain results of a Wound Test. Wounds caused by a Rending Hit use the AP and Damage Characteristics of the Weapon used to make the attack and retain any Special Rules that Weapon had.

If the Target Unit for an attack made with a Weapon that has this Special Rule includes any Models with the Vehicle Type, then this Special Rule has no effect.
Shred (X)

Designed to rip and tear flesh, some weapons are fearsome and intimidating tools of warfare. Whether by the gnashing teeth of a chainblade or the jagged edges of flechette ammunition, these weapons scythe great holes in the lines of even the toughest of infantry and the largest of warriors.

Attacks made with the Shred (X) Special Rule can sometimes inflict an extra point of Damage.

When any Wound Test is made for an attack with the Shred (X) Special Rule, if the result of the Dice roll, before any modifiers are applied, is equal to or greater than the value of X attached to this variant of the Shred (X) Special Rule, then if a wound is inflicted by that Wound Test, the Damage Characteristic of that wound is increased by 1. Note that the Shred (X) Special Rule may only be triggered by a Wound Test and has no effect when making an Armour Penetration Test.

Blast pistol

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Blast pistol
Blast pistol
9
2
4
4
1
Pistol, Rending (6+), Shred (6+)
Assault, Las
Poisoned (X)

Poison is a subtle weapon, relying not on brute strength to bring harm to the foe, but on its own insidious bite. Though some consider it a dishonourable tool, there are many that are willing to make use of it in the name of victory.

A Weapon with the Poisoned (X) Special Rule has a chance to cause a wound regardless of the target’s Toughness.

When making Wound Tests for Hits that have the Poisoned (X) Special Rule, if the result of any Dice rolled is equal to or greater than the value of X attached to the specific variant of this Special Rule then a wound is caused automatically, regardless of the Toughness Characteristic used to determine the Target Number. A Hit that has this Special Rule may still inflict a wound by passing a Wound Test as normal, instead of using this Special Rule, but never inflicts more than 1 wound if it would both pass the Wound Test and trigger the Poisoned (X) Special Rule. Wounds caused using the Poison (X) Special Rule retain the AP and Damage of the Weapon and Saving Throws and Damage Mitigation Tests may be made to discard them as normal. The Poisoned (X) Special Rule has no effect on Models that have the Vehicle Type, and limited effect on Models with the Automata or Walker Types.

Needle pistol

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Needle pistol
Needle pistol
12
2
2
-
1
Poisoned (3+), Pistol, Pinning (1)
Assault, Needle
Deflagrate (X)

Exotic beam weapons of arcing energy or sequential explosions triggered by the death of the first victim, some weapons cause not a single casualty, but a slew of them. Such weapons are wielded with grim efficiency against close packed formations of troops on the battlefields of the Horus Heresy. The most well-known examples are the volkite weapons of Mars, but many others are known.

Unsaved Wounds inflicted by attacks with the Deflagrate (X) Special Rule can cause additional Hits.

At the end of Step 9 of the Shooting Attack process for any Fire Group or Strike Group that includes Weapons with the Deflagrate (X) Special Rule, create a new Fire Group or Strike Group that must then be selected in Step 10 and resolved. This new Fire Group or Strike Group includes a number of Hits equal to the number of Unsaved Wounds caused by the Fire Group or Strike Group that triggered its creation. These Hits all have a Strength equal to the value of X attached to the variant of the Deflagrate (X) Special Rule possessed by Weapons in the preceding Fire Group or Strike Group, an AP of ‘-’, a Damage of 1 and no Special Rules.

Volkite serpenta

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Volkite serpenta
Volkite serpenta
10
2
5
5
1
Pistol, Deflagrate (5)
Assault, Volkite
Template

Template weapons shoot clouds of fire, gas or other lethal substances, rather than shells or bullets.

Weapons and attacks with the Template Special Rule use the Flame Template to determine how many Models they Hit.

When making attacks for a Weapon or other effect that has the Template Special Rule, or otherwise uses a Template, no Hit Tests are made for the attack. Instead, when directed to make Hit Tests for such an attack, a single Template is placed to determine how many Hits are generated. A Template must be placed so that its narrow end is touching the Base of the Model, the edge of a Model’s Hull (if it has the Vehicle Type) or other point being used to make the attack, and so that no part of the Template covers or touches a friendly Model’s Base, Hull or otherwise would inflict Hits on a friendly Model. Within these restrictions, the Player making the attack may place the Template in an orientation of their choosing as long as at least one Model from the original Target Unit remains under the Template. If the Template cannot be placed under these restrictions, such as if it cannot be placed without covering or touching friendly Models, then no attack may be made.

Once the Template has been placed, a number of Hits using the profile of the Weapon or effect are inflicted on the Target Unit equal to the number of Models touched or covered by the Template. If the Weapon or attack has a Firepower Characteristic greater than 1 then only a single Template is placed, but the number of Hits inflicted per Model touched or covered by the Template is equal to the Firepower Characteristic of the attack or Weapon. If more than one enemy Unit has Models that are touched or covered by the Template in its final position, then Hits are inflicted on all such Units as noted above, Hits on Units other than the original target form a new Fire Group that must be placed to one side and used to resolve a separate Shooting Attack on the additional Target Unit once all attacks and Fire Groups from the original Shooting Attack have been fully resolved. When resolving Armour Penetration Tests for Hits inflicted by a Weapon with this Special Rule, the position of the Model that was used to make the attack is used to determine which Armour Facing is used.

Note that the Rules require a Template to be placed in Base Contact with the Model being used to make the attack, but this Model is not counted as having been Hit by the attack and does not stop the attack from being made. However, this only applies to the individual Model being used to make the attack, not to other Models in the same Unit.

Weapons with this Special Rule will have their Range Characteristic as ‘Template’. This does not count as a value of ‘0’ or ‘-’. If a Rule requires a number for the Range Characteristic then all Weapons and attacks with this Special Rule are considered to have a Range Characteristic of ‘8’.

OTHER TEMPLATES
In some rare cases a Weapon may use a different Template than the standard Flame Template, in these cases the Template Rule may be expressed with a bracketed section stating which Template must be used when attacking with that Weapon. Otherwise, the Rules for its use are unchanged from those noted under the Template Special Rule, with the exception of the Range Characteristic it is considered to have.

An example of this is the use of the Hellstorm Template for certain very large Weapons. In this case the Rule would be expressed as ‘Template (Hellstorm)’ and the attack would be resolved using the Template Special Rule, but placing the larger Hellstorm Template. Weapons with the Template (Hellstorm) Special Rule are considered to have a Range Characteristic of ‘16’ when a Rule requires such weapons to have a numbered Range Characteristic.

Hand flamer

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Hand flamer
Hand flamer
Template
1
3
-
1
Template, Pistol
Assault, Flame
Overload (X)

Some weapons are almost as dangerous to the wielder as to the foe. Supercharged powerpacks can explode in combat or volatile munitions can jam or even detonate, all of which can prove deadly to those charged with deploying such weapons.

Weapons with this Special Rule may inflict Hits on the Models making Shooting Attacks with them.

When the Controlling Player declares that attacks will be made for a Model using a Weapon or profile that has the Overload (X) Special Rule, any Hit Tests made for those attacks that result in a number that is equal to or less than the value of X attached to the variant of the Overload Special Rule that the Weapon had, before any modifiers are applied to the roll, are Misfires.

For Weapons that do not make Hit Tests, such as Weapons with the Template Special Rule, instead roll a number of dice equal to the Firepower Characteristic of the Weapon used to make the attack after the attack has been declared and the number of Models hit is determined. Each Dice that results in a number equal to or less than the value of X attached to the variant of the Overload Special Rule that the Weapon had creates a Misfire. This does not affect the number of Hits on the Target Unit created by this attack.

For each Misfire, the Unit for which the Hit Tests were made suffer a Hit - these Hits must form a new Fire Group or Strike Group, referred to as the ‘Misfire Group’.

Once the current Shooting Attack and any Reactions triggered by it have been fully resolved, the Misfire Group must be resolved. A Misfire Group is resolved in the same way as any other Fire Group or Strike Group, using the Profile of the Weapon used for the Fire Group or Strike Group it was created from. Wounds, Glancing Hits or Penetrating Hits from this Misfire Group are allocated by the Controlling Player, and must be allocated to a Model that made attacks as part of the Fire Group or Strike Group that generated the Misfire Group. If a Hit from a Misfire Group is generated by an attack made by a Model with the Vehicle Type, then it is resolved against the lowest Armour Value from all of the Model’s facings.

Hits, wounds or Casualties inflicted upon a Unit as a result of this Special Rule do not cause Leadership or Cool Checks, and Hits inflicted as part of a Misfire Group do not trigger any Special Rules that take effect as a result of a certain value on a Hit Test.

Plasma pistol

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Plasma pistol
Plasma pistol
- Sustained fire
- Sustained fire
12
1
6
4
1
Pistol, Breaching (6+)
Assault, Plasma
- Maximal fire
- Maximal fire
12
1
7
4
1
Pistol, Breaching (5+), Overload (1)
Assault, Plasma
Hull (Arc) Mounted – Hull (Arc) Mounted Weapons will always specify a single Firing Arc and may only attack targets in that Firing Arc. The different Hull arcs are: Front, Rear, Left and Right. Some Units may specify Side as an arc - this means both Left and Right arcs.

For example, a Land Raider Carrier has a Hull (Front) Mounted twin heavy bolter - this Weapon may only attack targets in the Front Firing Arc.

Heavy bolter

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Heavy bolter
Heavy bolter
36
3
5
4
1
Heavy (FP)
Bolt
Panic (X)

Some weapons are so terrifyingly potent that their use instils abject fear in even the most strong-willed warriors. In the face of such wanton power the target can only flee or prepare for death, for few would live to tell of the true horrors of the Age of Darkness once they were unleashed on the battlefield.

Weapons and other attacks that have the Panic (X) Special Rule have a chance of inflicting the Routed Status on the Target Unit.

If a Shooting Attack made for a Weapon or Model with this Special Rule inflicts one or more wounds on a Target Unit, regardless of whether any Damage is inflicted, that Target Unit must make a Leadership Check in the Morale Sub-Phase of the same Player Turn. If this Check is failed then all Models in the Unit gain the Routed Status, if the Check is passed then there is no further effect. The value of X attached to this Special Rule is applied as a negative modifier to the Leadership Characteristic of Models in the Target Unit when making Checks caused by an attack with this Special Rule. If the attack includes multiple Weapons with different versions of this Special Rule the modifiers do not stack - use only the greatest modifier.

Heavy flamer

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Heavy flamer
Heavy flamer
Template
1
5
4
1
Template, Panic (1)
Flame
Suppressive (X)

A hail of enemy gunfire serves to keep any warrior’s head down, and some weapons are designed specifically to suppress the foe. Only the most steadfast of troops will continue the advance when all they can hear is the whistle and crack of gunshots and the screams of the fallen.

Weapons and other attacks that have the Suppressive (X) Special Rule have a chance of inflicting the Suppressed Status on the Target Unit.

If a Shooting Attack made for a Weapon or Model with this Special Rule inflicts one or more Hits on a Target Unit, that Target Unit must make a Cool Check in the Morale Sub-Phase of the same Player Turn. If this Check is failed all Models in the Unit gain the Suppressed Status, and if the Check is passed then there is no further effect. The value of X attached to this Rule is applied as a negative modifier to the Cool Characteristic of Models in the Target Unit when making Checks caused by an Attack with this Special Rule, if the attack includes multiple Weapons with different versions of this Special Rule the modifiers do not stack - use only the greatest modifier.

Multi-laser

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Multi-laser
Multi-laser
36
3
6
6
1
Suppressive (1)
Las

Autocannon

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Autocannon
Autocannon
48
2
7
4
2
Breaching (6+), Heavy (FP)
Auto
Armourbane

Heavy beams and armour-piercing cannon rarely inflict superficial damage, but always blast and break the hull of their target. Such weapons are superior tank killers, their sheer power prized over lesser weapons when the objective is to apply maximum damage without concern for finesse.

A Weapon with the Armourbane Special Rule counts Glancing Hits as Penetrating Hits.

When making Armour Penetration Tests for an attack with this Special Rule, a result that is equal to, or greater than, the target Armour Value inflicts a Penetrating Hit. A Weapon with this Special Rule can never inflict a Glancing Hit, and any Rule that would force them to do so instead inflicts a Penetrating Hit.

Lascannon

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Lascannon
Lascannon
48
1
9
2
1
Heavy (D), Armourbane
Las
Sponson Mounted – Sponson Mounted Weapons are usually in pairs, one on each side of a Vehicle (the Model’s profile will note if this is not the case) and may attack targets in the appropriate Sponson Firing Arc (either left or right). Sponson Mounted Weapons are always counted as Defensive Weapons regardless of the Weapon’s Characteristics.
Pintle Mounted – Pintle Mounted Weapons may attack targets in any Firing Arc without restriction, and are always counted as Defensive Weapons and as having the Assault Trait regardless of the Weapon’s Characteristics.

Heavy stubber

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Heavy stubber
Heavy stubber
36
3
4
6
1
-
Auto
Walker

These massive engines of war are unlike the soulless warriors of the Mechanicum, for at their heart rests a mortal warrior whose instincts and experience guides their steel body on the field of battle.

The following Rules apply to all Models with the Walker Type:
Bulky (X)

Transport vehicles are designed to balance armour and capacity, attempting to mount the most protection without compromising how many warriors they can carry. Yet, some warriors are plated in such imposing armour or even spawned in such an aberrant nature that they occupy far more space than any regular fighter. Such warriors are mighty in both power and stature, but prove more difficult to ferry into battle.

Models with the Bulky (X) Special Rule take up more space on Transport Models.

A Model with the Bulky (X) Special Rule does not use up 1 Point of Transport Capacity when it Embarks on a Model with the Transport Sub-Type. Instead it uses up a number of points of Transport Capacity equal to the value of X attached to the variant of the Bulky (X) possessed by that Model.
Detonation

Designed to be carefully attached to a target and blast precise holes in the thickest armour, these cumbersome devices are ill-suited to open war. However, when a vulnerable target can be isolated in battle, there are no better tools for piercing its protection.

Weapons with this Special Rule can only attack Vehicles and immobile Models.

A Weapon or attack with this Special Rule may only be selected during Step 2 of any Combat in the Fight Sub-Phase if the Unit making attacks is only Locked in Combat with enemy Units composed of Models with the Vehicle Type and Models with a Movement Characteristic of ‘0’ or ‘-’. If a Unit is Locked in Combat with any enemy Units that include any Models that do not have the Vehicle Type or a Movement Characteristic of ‘0’ or ‘-’ then no Model may use a Weapon or other attack that has this Special Rule.

A Weapon or other attack with this Special Rule may also be used to make attacks targeting a Model with the Building Type or a Terrain Piece that has a Toughness or Armour Characteristic.
Infantry

Infantry units include all types of foot soldiers. Infantry are fairly slow moving, but can cross almost any terrain and make the best use of cover to avoid enemy fire.

Infantry is the most basic Type, and is applied to most Models in the game. A Model with the Infantry Type uses the Core Rules without modification, gaining neither benefit nor penalty. Models with the Infantry Type may Embark and Disembark upon Models with the Transport Sub-Type.
Cool (CL) – The Cool Characteristic is primarily used to resist Statuses. For more details see the Rules for Tactical Statuses. When a Model’s Cool reaches 0, any Check it is used to determine the Target Number for automatically fails with no Dice rolled. However, a Unit that includes one or more Models with a Cool of 0 but uses a Model with a higher value to make a Cool Check suffers no penalties.
Characteristic Checks
The most common type of Check is the Characteristic Check, often separately named for the Characteristic to be checked (e.g., Leadership Check, Intelligence Check, Cool Check or Willpower Check).

When a Characteristic Check is made for an individual Model, then the Target Number for the Check is always equal to the value of the Characteristic of the same name possessed by the Model. For example, the Target Number of a Willpower Check made for a Model with Willpower 7 would be 7.

When a Characteristic Check is made for a Unit rather than an individual Model, the Target Number for the Check is equal to the value of the Characteristic of the same name possessed by the Model with the lowest Characteristic of the same name in the Unit. For example, the Target Number of a Leadership Check made for a Unit that includes Models with Leadership Characteristics of 6, 8 and 10 would be 6 - the lowest of the available Characteristic values. Note that if the Unit includes a Model with the Sergeant or Command Sub-Types then that Model’s Characteristic may always be used instead of any other Model’s.

In most cases if a Check is passed then there is no further effect, while failure will often result in the Model for which the Check is made being affected by the Rule which called for the Check. Unlike Tests, Checks must be rolled one at a time and should not be rolled in batches in order to avoid confusion over which Dice refer to which Check.
Line of Sight
Some Rules will ask Players to determine Line of Sight between two Models or a Model and a point on the Battlefield, checking whether one Model can ‘see’ another. Most often this is part of an attack, as a Model must have Line of Sight to its target in order to make any attack.

To determine Line of Sight, use a tape measure or other device to determine if an unbroken straight line can be drawn between the first Model and its target. If a piece of Terrain, Model with the Vehicle Type or other obstruction breaks the line between those two Models then there is no Line of Sight, if the line is unobstructed then both Models have Line of Sight to each other.

In the example pictured above, a Salamander is in close proximity to two Iron Warriors. The topmost Iron Warrior and the Salamander have Line of Sight to each other, as no terrain or other obstruction breaks the line between the two Models. However, no Line of Sight exists between the lower Iron Warrior and the Salamander, as the building breaks the line between the two Models.

Area Terrain only obstructs Line of Sight if the line passes through more than 3" of an Area of Terrain - except for Heavy Area Terrain, which always obstructs Line of Sight, and Light Area Terrain, which never blocks Line of Sight. Models that do not have the Vehicle Type do not obstruct Line of Sight regardless of their size. Models that are Embarked on another Model, in Reserves or otherwise not on the Battlefield never have Line of Sight to any other Model. Note that if a Model has Line of Sight to another Model, then that Model must have Line of Sight to the first Model, and that a Model is always considered to have Line of Sight to itself and is always considered to be in range of itself while it is on the Battlefield.

When determining if a Model has Line of Sight to a Unit, it only needs to have Line of Sight to one Model that is part of that Unit. This does not grant that Model Line of Sight to any other Models in the Unit that are otherwise hidden and does not affect how or to which Models wounds or Hits can be assigned.
LOCKED IN COMBAT – If the Assault Sequence ends and at least one Target Unit has neither been forced to Fall Back or been entirely Removed as Casualties, then the Units involved remain in place with at least one Model from each Unit in Base-to-Base Contact with an enemy Model. These Units are ‘Locked in Combat’ and may not be selected or moved in the Movement Phase or selected to make Shooting Attacks in the Shooting Phase. They may be selected during the Fight and Challenge Sub-Phases of the Assault Phase by the Active Player, but may not make a Charge or otherwise be selected in the Charge Sub-Phase.
Shooting Attacks
A Shooting Attack is the process by which a Unit makes a coordinated series of attacks targeting an enemy Unit.

In order to make a Shooting Attack for a Unit that has been selected during the Attack Sub-Phase, as part of a Reaction or for any other Rule or Sub-Phase that requires a Shooting Attack to be made, the following procedure must be followed:
  1. Select Target Unit.
  2. Check Target.
  3. Declare Weapons.
  4. Set Fire Groups.
  5. Select Fire Group To Resolve.
  6. Make Hit Tests.
  7. Make Wound Tests.
  8. Select Target Model.
  9. Make Saving Throws & Damage Mitigation Tests.
  10. Select Next Fire Group.
  11. Remove Casualties.
As part of the Rules for conducting a Shooting Attack, the term ‘Attacking Unit’ will be used to refer to the Unit whose Models will be making attacks as part of that Shooting Attack, while the term ‘Attacking Player’ will be used to identify the Player that controls the Attacking Unit. The term ‘Target Unit’ will be used to refer to the Unit that is selected as the Target Unit for the Shooting Attack.
Toughness (T) – The Toughness Characteristic is primarily used as part of Wound Tests, with a higher value making it harder for attacks to inflict wounds on a Target Unit or Model. If a Model is reduced to 0 Toughness then all Wound Tests made targeting it are automatically successful and no Dice are rolled (if the Wound Test could have triggered a variable Special Rule, then that Rule is considered to have been automatically activated as part of the Test).
Heedless

Among the tumult of battle, some warriors take no stock in tactical considerations and focus solely upon the murderous arts demanded of them.

A Unit that includes any Models with this Special Rule cannot claim Objectives.

A Unit that includes any Models with this Special Rule cannot Control or Contest any Objective Marker - this overrides any other Rule or Special Rule that may apply to the Unit regardless of the source of the Rule or effect.
Impact (X)

Some warriors are trained or equipped to make the most of the force of a charge. When they slam into enemy ranks, it is with the force of a thunderbolt.

On a successful Charge, a Model with the Impact (X) Special Rule temporarily increases a Characteristic by 1.

If a Unit that includes any Models with the Impact (X) Special Rule or any Models that have any Weapons with the Impact (X) Special Rule, and that Unit makes a successful Charge, then this Special Rule is triggered. Once triggered, until the end of that Assault Phase, when making Melee Attacks for Models in that Unit, each Model or Weapon that is selected for one of those Models, that has a variant of this Special Rule gains a modifier of +1 to any Characteristics that is the value of X.
Line (X)

Some units are drilled to hold the ground captured by the vanguard. Vigilant and steadfast, they are vital assets in any battle, standing sentinel over the vital objectives captured in any assault and holding back the foe’s counter-assault.

A Unit of Models with this Special Rule can control Objectives more easily and scores more Victory Points from controlling an Objective.

If a Unit that Controls an Objective includes a majority of Models with the Line (X) Special Rule then, whenever the Controlling Player scores Victory Points for Controlling that Objective, an additional number of Victory Points equal to the value of X are scored. For example, a Unit of 10 Models, of which the majority have the Line (3) Special Rule, hold an Objective worth 1 Victory Point, when the Controlling Player scores Victory Points for that Objective, they would score a total of 4 Victory Points.

Furthermore, the value of X is added to the Tactical Strength of a Model that has that Special Rule to determine its ability to Control Objectives (see Core Mission Primary Objectives).
Invulnerable Tests
Invulnerable Saves are listed as a Characteristic on each Model’s Profile, and can also be applied by Special Rules or Wargear.

If a Model cannot have an Armour Test or Cover Test made for it, or the Controlling Player chooses not to make an Armour Test or a Cover Test, but has access to an Invulnerable Save then that Saving Throw may be made instead of an Armour Test or a Cover Test. An Invulnerable Test is resolved in exactly the same manner as an Armour Test. Note that Invulnerable Tests are not affected by the AP value of a wound, however a Model may not have a Invulnerable Test made for it if:

No more than one Saving Throw of any kind may be made for a given wound or Penetrating Hit. If more than one type of Saving Throw is available then the Controlling Player must select one Saving Throw to make, and may not make any other Saving Throws for that wound or Penetrating Hit - if multiple wounds of the same value or Penetrating Hits are to be resolved then the same type of Saving Throw does not have to be used to resolve them, but this may prove easier and quicker in practice.
Critical Hit (X)

Whether by dint of superior skill or exemplary wargear, some warriors are better able to place strikes on enemy weak points. Such attacks can fell even the most powerful foes with a single well-placed shot.

Attacks made with the Critical Hit (X) Special Rule have a chance to automatically cause a wound and inflict 1 extra point of Damage.

When any Hit Test is made for an attack with the Critical Hit (X) Special Rule, if the result of the Dice roll, before any modifiers are applied, is equal to or greater than the value of X attached to this variant of the Critical Hit (X) Special Rule, then if a Hit is inflicted by that Hit Test, that Hit becomes a ‘Critical Hit’.

A Critical Hit automatically inflicts a wound without any Dice being rolled, counting as the roll of a ‘6’ for any variable Special Rules that might be triggered by a Wound Test, and increases the Damage Characteristic of the Hit by +1.
Ranged Hit Tests
Ranged Hit Tests include all Hit Tests made outside of Combat or at a distance further than Base-to-Base Contact. Ranged Hit Tests are normally part of a Shooting Attack which details how to select targets. The Rules in this section are focussed only on the process of rolling Hit Tests.

When making a Ranged Hit Test for any Model, roll a number of Dice equal to the Firepower Characteristic of any one Weapon that the Model has (or when instructed roll all of the Dice for attacks made using the same Ballistic Skill and for identical Weapons - a grouping known as a Fire Group - see the Rules for the Shooting Phase for more details). These Dice are rolled as a Test, using the Ranged Hit Test Table and the attacking Model’s Ballistic Skill to determine the Target number for the Test.

RANGED HIT TEST TABLE
The following table is used to determine the Target Number for Ranged Hit Tests:

BS10+987654321
Target NumberAC3+C4+C5+C6+2+3+4+5+6+
*Snap Shots2+3+3+4+4+5+5+6+6+F
BS10+9876
Target NumberAC3+C4+C5+C6+
*Snap Shots2+3+3+4+4+
BS54321
Target Number2+3+4+5+6+
*Snap Shots5+5+6+6+F
*Some Rules may require Ranged Hit: Tests to be made as Snap Shots, such Hit Tests use this row to determine their Target Number.

Where a number is shown, that is the Target Number of the Ranged Hit Test. For other entries, use the following Rules to resolve the Hit Test:

F (Fail) – If the table shows an ‘F’ then no Dice are rolled and the Test automatically fails to Hit, applying any effects a miss would normally apply to the attacking Model. For Weapons with the Rending (X) Special Rule, a result of F does not trigger the Rending (X) Special Rule.
A (Automatic) – if the table shows an ‘A’ then no Dice are rolled and the Test automatically succeeds as if the Dice’s natural result had been a ‘6’, applying all effects that such a result would normally apply. In addition, such an attack also applies all of the effects of a Critical Hit (see the Critical Hit (X) Special Rule).
CX+ (Critical Hit) – If the table shows a ‘CX+’, then the Target Number of the Ranged Hit Test is 2+, but if the roll results in a value equal to or greater than the value of ‘X’ then the Hit gains the effects of the Critical Hit (X) Special Rule.

As with other Tests, any Dice whose result equals or exceeds the Target Number has succeeded and inflicts a Hit on the Target Unit.
Feel No Pain (X)

Some warriors are so inured to pain and suffering that nothing but the most grievous of hurts will slow their onslaught. The only way to stop such a berserk is to hit them again and again until at last they fall, the toll of their hurts far more than any mortal warrior should be capable of bearing.

Feel No Pain (X) is a Damage Mitigation Test that may be taken in addition to a Saving Throw.

A Feel No Pain Damage Mitigation Test may be made for a Model with the Feel No Pain (X) Special Rule to discard wounds allocated to the Model after and in addition to a Saving Throw. The Target Number for a Feel No Pain Damage Mitigation Test is the value of X attached to the specific variant of the Special Rule.
Ordnance (X)

Huge artillery cannon and vast laser weapons are commonly employed as the primary armament of the greatest war machines of the Imperium. These weapons are devastating when properly braced and prepared for firing - more than capable of destroying smaller war engines in a single blast.

Weapons with the Ordnance (X) Special Rule double the value of a Characteristic when Stationary.

When making a Shooting Attack with a Weapon that has the Ordnance (X) Special Rule, a modifier of x2 is applied to a Characteristic if the Model with that Weapon is part of a Unit that remained stationary in the Controlling Player’s previous Movement Phase (if that Characteristic is AP, then the AP is instead changed to AP 2). The value of X in the specific variant of the Ordnance (X) Special Rule determines which Characteristic gains the x2 modifier.
Super-heavy

From the lumbering Baneblade tanks of the Imperial Army to the destructive power of the Legiones Astartes Falchion, all of the war machines that fall into this category are huge armour-clad constructions that each wield enough firepower to destroy an entire army.


The following Rules apply to all Models with the Super-heavy Sub-Type:

*See Liber Questoris for more details on these Unit Sub-Types.
Leadership (LD) – The Leadership Characteristic is primarily used to resolve Checks to determine when a Unit will stand its ground or flee. For more details see the Combat Resolution Rules. When a Model’s Leadership Characteristic reaches 0, any Check it is used to determine the Target Number for automatically fails with no Dice rolled. However, a Unit that includes one or more Models with a Leadership of 0 but uses a Model with a higher value to make a Panic or Leadership Check suffers no penalties.
Blast (X)

Some weapons trade precision for indiscriminate destruction, high explosive impacts that can devastate a wide area. From artillery shells to high energy blasts, such weapons are popular tools of destruction on the battlefields of the Horus Heresy.

Attacks made with the Blast (X) Special Rule use a Blast Marker to determine how many Hits are caused.

When making attacks with a Weapon that has the Blast (X) Special Rule, before any Hit Tests are made, a Blast Marker must first be placed to determine how many Hits may be inflicted by the attack. The Player making the attack must place the Blast Marker indicated in brackets as part of the Special Rule so that the hole in the middle is entirely over the Base of any one Model in the Target Unit. Once the Blast Marker has been placed, the Player making the attack must make a Hit Test for the attack, and each Model from the Target Unit that is fully or partially under the Blast Marker will suffer 1 Hit if the Hit Test is successful.

Hits on Other Units
If any Models from Units other than the Target Unit are fully or partially covered by the Blast Marker, then a new Fire Group must be created for those Hits and set to one side. Continue resolving the Shooting Attack on the original Target Unit, and once that Shooting Attack has been completely resolved begin a new Shooting Attack to resolve those additional Fire Groups generated for Units other than the original Target Unit.

If the Hit Test is unsuccessful then no Hits are inflicted and the Player making the attack must make a Scatter Roll for the Blast Marker. Once a Scatter Roll has been made for the Blast Marker and it has been moved, one Hit is inflicted on a Unit for each Model from that Unit that is wholly or partially covered by the Blast Marker.

Hits can be scored on both friendly and enemy Units by attacks using the Blast (X) Special Rule. Hits inflicted by Weapons with the Blast (X) Special Rule are allocated in the same manner as other Hits, regardless of which actual Models were under the Blast Marker and the Blast Marker may not be used to inflict Hits on specific Models.

If a Fire Group includes multiple attacks made with the Blast (X) Special Rule, do not place multiple Blast Markers. A single Blast Marker is placed using the Rules detailed above, and a Hit Test is made for each attack in that Fire Group. For each successful Hit Test, one Hit is inflicted for each Model from the target Unit that is fully or partially under the Blast Marker. If any Hit Tests are unsuccessful then, after any Hits made by successful Hit Tests are counted, a single Scatter Roll is made for the Blast Marker, regardless of the total number of unsuccessful Hit Tests. For each Hit Test that was unsuccessful, one Hit is inflicted on a Unit for each Model from that Unit that is wholly or partially covered by the Blast Marker after the Scatter Roll has been resolved.
Removed as a Casualty
A Model Removed as a Casualty is directly removed from the Battlefield, without disturbing the position of any other Model or Terrain Piece. Once removed from the Battlefield it should be placed in a location distinct from Models in Reserves and outside the bounds of the Battlefield. Once Removed as a Casualty a Model may not be returned to the Battlefield and all Rules or effects targeting or originating with that Model end immediately and have no further effect. No Rule or effect may draw Line of Sight or Range to a Model that has been Removed as a Casualty for any reason. If a Model with the Transport Sub-Type is Removed as a Casualty while Models are Embarked upon it, then before the Model with the Transport Sub-Type is removed all Models Embarked upon it must immediately make an Emergency Disembarkation.

A number of Rules, including Tactical Statuses and Victory Conditions are triggered by the removal of Models as Casualties, and as such all Players should be made aware of any Models that are Removed as Casualties. Furthermore, any Player may request to see which Models have been Removed as Casualties by any Player at any point during the Battle.
Recovery Tests
A Recovery Test is made when one or more Unsaved Wounds are allocated to a Model, and is resolved by rolling a Dice and comparing the result to the value of ‘X’ in the variant of the Medic (X) Special Rule. If there is more than one variant of the Medic (X) Special Rule present in a Unit, then the Controlling Player chooses which is used to determine the Target Number, if the Recovery Test is successful then a single Unsaved Wound allocated to the Model has its Damage reduced by 1 (to a minimum of 0). If a Recovery Test is failed, then any Unsaved Wounds allocated to the Model are resolved as normal.
Stun (X)

Some weapons are designed not only to kill and maim, but also to shock and disorient the foe. Such weapons may rely on blinding flares, bursts of enervating energy or even subtle poisons to slow and disable the enemy, but their effects are the same. Debilitated and vulnerable, warriors struck by such weapons become easy prey.

Weapons and other attacks that have the Stun (X) Special Rule have a chance of inflicting the Stunned Status on the Target Unit.

If a Shooting Attack made for a Weapon or Model with this Special Rule inflicts one or more Hits on a Target Unit, that Target Unit must make a Cool Check in the Morale Sub-Phase of the same Player Turn. If this Check is failed then all Models in the Unit gain the Stunned Status and if the Check is passed then there is no further effect. The value of X attached to this Rule is applied as a negative modifier to the Cool Characteristic of Models in the Target Unit when making Checks caused by an Attack with this Special Rule, if the attack includes multiple Weapons with different versions of this Special Rule the modifiers do not stack - use only the greatest modifier.
Shock (X)

Blasts of exotic radiation, malignant scrap-code or other targeted attacks can render the systems of complex war engines vulnerable without penetrating their armour. While such weapons are less likely to leave their target as a broken ruin, the deleterious effects of their attacks can render even the most powerful war machines impotent.

Weapons with the Shock (X) Special Rule have a chance of inflicting Statuses on Vehicles even if it does not penetrate their armour.

When making a Hit Test for a Weapon with this Special Rule against a Target Unit that includes any Models with the Vehicle Type or Walker Type, the result of the Hit Test before any modifiers are applied must be checked. If any Hit Test for a Weapon with the Shock (X) Special Rule results in a ‘5’ or ‘6’ before any modifiers are applied, then all Models with the Vehicle Type or Walker Type in the Target Unit gain a Status at the end of Step 11 of the Shooting Attack process or Step 10 of the Initiative Step process. The Status gained is indicated by the value of X attached to that variant of the Shock (X) Special Rule. If the Model already has the stated Status or the attack would apply the Status multiple times there is no additional effect and this Special Rule never causes a Model to lose Wounds or Hull Points. Hits inflicted by a Weapon with this Special Rule must still have Wound Tests or Armour Penetration Tests made for them, and are not discarded if they trigger this Special Rule.
Melta (X)

The beams of energy generated by melta weaponry dissipate over long ranges. When used at close quarters, however, their effect on armoured vehicles is devastating.

This Special Rule increases the amount of Damage against Vehicles when Shooting Attacks are made within a specific range.

If at least one Model in a Unit with the Vehicle Type that is targeted by a Shooting Attack made by a Model using a Weapon with this Special Rule is within a range equal to or less than the value specified by X, that attack has the Armourbane Special Rule and the Damage of Penetrating Hits caused by that attack is doubled.
Limited (X)

Some weapons carry only a severely limited stock of munitions. Often intended as weapons of last resort, used at the correct point they can turn the tide of battle.

A Weapon with the Limited (X) Special Rule can only be used to attack a limited number of times per Battle.

A Weapon with the Limited (X) Special Rule may only be used to make attacks as part of a Shooting Attack or Combat a number of times equal to the value of X attached to the specific variant of the Special Rule. Each time it is used to make attacks, the Firepower Characteristic or Attacks Modifier Characteristic of the Weapon is not modified by this Special Rule, only the number of times it may be selected in a given Battle.
Willpower (WP) – The Willpower Characteristic is primarily used for Checks made for Psychic Attacks or Powers. For more details see the Rules for Psychic Powers. When a Model’s Willpower Characteristic reaches 0, any Check it is used to determine the Target Number for, automatically fails with no Dice rolled. However, a Unit that includes one or more Models with a Willpower of 0 but uses a Model with a higher value to make a Willpower Check suffers no penalties.
Intelligence (IN) – The Intelligence Characteristic is primarily used for Checks to activate certain Wargear items and Rules. When a Model’s Intelligence Characteristic reaches 0, any Check it is used to determine the Target Number for automatically fails with no Dice rolled. However, a Unit that includes one or more Models with an Intelligence of 0 but uses a Model with a higher value to make an Intelligence Check suffers no penalties.
Movement (M) – The Movement Characteristic is primarily used to determine how far a Model can move during the Movement Phase, with higher values denoting an ability to move further (see Moving Units). If a Model’s Movement Characteristic is reduced to 0, then the Controlling Player may not move, Rush or otherwise change the Model’s position on the Battlefield regardless of any other Rules that may affect it until its Movement is changed to a value greater than 0.
Weapon Skill (WS) – The Weapon Skill Characteristic is primarily used to determine a Model’s ability to attack during a Combat in the Assault Phase, with a higher value making it both easier for the Model to make attacks and more difficult for opponents to do so (see Melee Hit Tests). If a Model’s Weapon Skill is reduced to 0 then that Model cannot make attacks in a Combat (if the Hit Test could have triggered a variable Special Rule, then that Rule is considered to automatically fail to activate as part of the Test). Enemy Models whose attacks target a Model with Weapon Skill 0, or a Unit whose majority Weapon Skill is 0, treat the Target Model as though it had a Weapon Skill of T to determine the Target Number for any Hit Tests required.
Ballistic Skill (BS) – The Ballistic Skill Characteristic is primarily used to determine a Model’s ability to make attacks during a Shooting Attack, with a higher value making it easier to succeed at attacks (see Ranged Hit Tests). If a Model’s Ballistic Skill is reduced to 0 then that Model cannot make Shooting Attacks, even if no Hit Test is required or it would have otherwise automatically succeeded due to the use of a Special Rule.
Strength (S) – The Strength Characteristic is primarily used to determine the effectiveness of Wound Tests inflicted by Melee Weapons, with a higher value making it easier to inflict wounds. If a Model’s Strength Characteristic is reduced to 0 then any Wound Tests made that would use that Characteristic or for any Melee Weapon automatically fails and no Dice are rolled for it (if the Wound Test could have triggered a variable Special Rule, then that Rule is considered to automatically fail to activate as part of the Test).
Wounds (W) – The Wounds Characteristic is primarily used to determine a Model’s capacity for receiving Damage during a Battle, with a higher value allowing a Model to sustain more damage before it is removed from play. When a Model’s Wounds Characteristic is reduced to 0 that Model is Removed as a Casualty, see the Rules for Casualties here.
Attacks (A) – The Attacks Characteristic is primarily used to determine the number of attacks a Model may make in a Combat, with the value of the Characteristic indicating the number of attacks that can be made (see Melee Hit Tests). When a Model’s Attacks Characteristic is reduced to 0 then that Model may not make any attacks as part of a Combat.
Armour Save (SAV) – An Armour Save is used to attempt to negate wounds suffered by a Model. When a Model’s Armour Save is at its minimum value of ‘-’, that Model may not make Armour Tests.
Invulnerable Save (INV) – An Invulnerable Save is used to negate wounds that would normally ignore or bypass an Armour Save. When a Model’s Invulnerable Save is at its minimum value of ‘-’, that Model may not make Invulnerable Tests.

Lasrifle

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Lasrifle
Lasrifle
- Volley
- Volley
30
1
3
6
1
Heavy (FP)
Las
- Blast-charger*
- Blast-charger*
18
1
4
4
1
Rending (6+), Shred (6+)
Las

Laspistol

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Laspistol
Laspistol
12
1
3
-
1
Pistol
Assault, Las
Frag Grenades

This class of grenade contains only a small explosive charge, and is intended primarily to disorientate and distract the foe while closing on a fixed position.

Frag grenades can be used to make attacks during the Volley Step.

When making Volley Attacks during Step 4 of the Charge Procedure with a Unit that includes at least one Model with frag grenades, the Controlling Player may choose to make a single attack with a frag grenade instead of making a normal Shooting Attack using the following profile:

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Frag Grenades
Frag Grenades
6
1
3
6
1
Blast (3")
Assault

Krak grenades

Melee Weapon
Melee Weapon
IM
AM
SM
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Krak grenades
Krak grenades
-3
1
6
4
2
Detonation
-
Command

Representing the elite of any army, commanders oversee the disposition of their troops, set strategy for the coming battle and often stand at the forefront of the conflict. The actions of such heroes can change the tide of battle in an instant.

The following Rules apply to all Models with the Command Sub-Type:

Thunder hammer

Melee Weapon
Melee Weapon
IM
AM
SM
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Thunder hammer
Thunder hammer
-2
A
+3
2
2
-
Power

Paragon blade

Melee Weapon
Melee Weapon
IM
AM
SM
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Paragon blade
Paragon blade
I
A
+1
2
1
Critical Hit (6+)
-
Auxilia Melee Weapons

Archaeotech pistol

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Archaeotech pistol
Archaeotech pistol
12
1
6
4
2
Pistol, Breaching (3+)
Assault

Inferno Pistol

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Inferno Pistol
Inferno pistol
6
1
8
2
1
Pistol, Melta (3)
Assault, Melta
Auxilia Pistols

Bayonet

Melee Weapon
Melee Weapon
IM
AM
SM
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Bayonet
Bayonet
I
A
S
5
1
-
Bayonet
Command Vox and Vox Interlocks

More complex command vox arrays allow command units of the Solar Auxilia to communicate with either individual units or entire tercio, coordinating the actions of hundreds of warriors with ease. Lesser vox interlocks are tied directly to such units, and if the command vox is eliminated by enemy action, then the entire network is thrown into chaos.

Command vox and vox interlocks allow Units to remove Statuses in the Start Phase.

If a Unit includes one or more Models with a vox interlock, and there are one or more friendly Models on the Battlefield with a command vox, then the Controlling Player may activate the vox interlock during the Start Phase of their Player Turn. When activated, the Controlling Player may make a Check to remove a single Status from all Models in the Unit that includes the vox interlock. This Check is made using the Characteristics of any one friendly Model on the Battlefield which is part of a Unit containing at least one Model with a command vox, chosen by the Controlling Player (using Cool, unless attempting to remove Routed, in which case Leadership is used). A vox interlock may only be activated once per Player Turn, and each Friendly Model on the Battlefield with a command vox may only be used once per Start Phase as part of this Special Rule.
Augury Scanner

This energy scanning device pierces weather, camouflage and obscuring smoke, alerting the user and their squadmates to the concealed presence of enemy troops in the vicinity, allowing attacks to be directed more effectively.

Augury scanners allow attacks to ignore Shrouded Damage Mitigation Tests.

When a Shooting Attack made by a Unit that includes any Models with an augury scanner inflicts any Hits (excluding Hits from attacks made as Snap Shots), Shrouded Damage Mitigation Rolls cannot be made against those Hits.
Auxilia Vexilla

Most units within a given tercio or cohort will bear a vexilla into battle, a reminder of their battle history as well as a sign by which they can be tracked through the chaos of battle by their superiors.

An Auxilia vexilla increases the Casualty threshold when making Panic Checks for a Unit in the Shooting Phase from 25% to 50%.

When determining whether a Unit containing at least one Model with an Auxilia vexilla is required to take a Leadership Check in the Morale Sub-Phase of the Shooting Phase due to the number of Models removed from that Unit as Casualties, a Check only has to be made for the Unit if the number of Models removed is equal to 50% or more of the total number of Models in the Unit at the start of that Shooting Attack.
Cohorts Vexilla

Each cohort bears a standard, known as the cohorts vexilla, granted to them at the founding of the cohort and listing all the triumphs they have fought in over the long years of the Great Crusade. The warriors of the cohort will suffer no foe to dishonour their standard, holding fast even in the face of the most terrible foes.

A cohorts vexilla increases the Casualty threshold when making Panic Checks for a Unit in the Shooting Phase from 25% to 50% and removes the Routed Tactical Status from friendly Solar Auxilia Units when they end a Fall Back Move within 12".

When determining whether a Unit containing at least one Model with a cohorts vexilla is required to take a Leadership Check in the Morale Sub-Phase of the Shooting Phase due to the number of Models removed from that Unit as Casualties, a Check only has to be made for the Unit if the number of Models removed is equal to 50% or more of the total number of Models in the Unit at the start of that Shooting Attack.

Additionally, when at least one Model in a Unit entirely composed of Models with the Solar Auxilia Trait ends a Fall Back Move within 12" of at least one Model from a Friendly Unit with a cohorts vexilla, all Models in that Unit immediately remove the Routed Status.

Melta bombs

Melee Weapon
Melee Weapon
IM
AM
SM
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Melta bombs
Melta bombs
-3
1
9
2
4
Armourbane, Detonation
-
Officer of the Line (X)

Some officers are not renowned for their skills in combat or for the great glories they have won, but rather for their steadfast leadership and skill in logistics. Often unassuming and under-appreciated, it is these warriors that hold the armies of the Imperium together and only the most foolish general will overlook them in favour of more vainglorious officers.

Models with this Special Rule allow more Auxiliary Detachments to be included in an Army.

If a Model with this Special Rule is selected to fill a Command Slot in any Detachment in the Crusade Force Organisation Chart, then the Controlling Player may select a number of Auxiliary Detachments equal to the value of X in the specific variant of this Special Rule instead of just one.
Sergeant

The humble sergeant stands as one of the greatest weapons in the arsenals of any army. Skilled in war and in leadership, each sergeant is the beating heart of their unit and the cornerstone upon which victory is built.

The following Rules apply to all Models with the Sergeant Sub-Type:
Close Order

When deployed en masse, the lasrifle sections which formed the mainstay of the Solar Auxilia were a formidable bulwark, their predominant strategy of ‘aggressive defence’ paying off in countless campaigns across the Great Crusade.

Models with this Special Rule increase the value of the Line (X) Special Rule for nearby Friendly Models with the Infantry Tercio Trait.

If any Model with the Infantry Tercio Trait and the Infantry Type can draw a Line of Sight to one or more Friendly Models with this Special Rule that are within 18", then that Model and all other Models in the same Unit add a modifier of +1 to the value of X in any variant of the Line (X) Special Rule they have.

Volkite charger

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Volkite charger
Volkite charger
15
2
5
5
1
Deflagrate (5)
Assault, Volkite
Champion

At the front of any charge and the heart of any defensive line are an army’s champions. These warriors stand ever ready to accept the challenge of their foes and inspire their allies.

The following Rules apply to all Models with the Champion Sub-Type:

Charnabal tabar

Melee Weapon
Melee Weapon
IM
AM
SM
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Charnabal tabar
Charnabal tabar
I
A
+1
-
1
Breaching (6+), Duellist’s Edge (1)
Charnabal

Storm axe

Melee Weapon
Melee Weapon
IM
AM
SM
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Storm axe
Storm axe
-1
A
+2
3
1
Breaching (5+), Shred (5+)
Power
Light

Light troops are equipped and trained to fight on the move, pausing only briefly and trusting to speed over cover or heavy armour. Many armies will make use of such warriors as scouts, but they also serve as harassers and pursuit troops.

The following Rules apply to all Models with the Light Sub-Type:
Implacable Advance

The wargear of many Legiones Astartes warriors and war machines incorporates a variety of targeting and stabilisation systems, enabling larger weaponry to be brought to bear even at close ranges.

Models with this Special Rule can make Volley Attacks with other Weapons.

The Controlling Player of a Model with this Special Rule treats all Ranged Weapons such a Model has that do not have any variant of the Heavy (X) Special Rule or Ordnance (X) Special Rule as having the Assault Trait.
Move Through Cover

Pathfinders and scouts are vital parts of any army, able to lead troops through even the worst terrain at speed. Cunning generals will seek to use such troops to outflank and outmanoeuvre the foe.

The Move Through Cover Special Rule allows the penalties of terrain to be ignored.

A Unit that includes at least one Model with the Move Through Cover Special Rule ignores the effects of Difficult Terrain and Dangerous Terrain. If called upon to take a Dangerous Terrain Test then such a Unit is assumed to automatically pass without any Dice being rolled.
Outflank

Whether by stealth or sheer speed, some warriors approach the battlefield from unexpected directions. Such an attack can derail even the most well-laid plans and upend the strategies of any general, turning the tide of battle.

A Unit of Models with the Outflank Special Rule can enter play from outside of Deployment Zones.

A Unit made up entirely of Models with this Special Rule that enters play from Reserves may do so from any point on the Battlefield Edge. The Unit may not enter play from any point that is within the Opposing Player’s Deployment Zone or within 7" of any enemy Model.

Note that a Unit Embarked on a Model with the Outflank Special Rule does not need to have the Outflank Special Rule in order for the Model it is Embarked upon to benefit from it. A Model that enters the Battlefield from a point outside of the Controlling Player’s Deployment Zone by means of this Special Rule, and any Units Embarked on such a Model, may not have a Charge declared for them in the Player Turn on which they enter play.

Volkite caliver

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Volkite caliver
Volkite caliver
30
2
6
5
1
Deflagrate (6)
Volkite

Hermes grenade launcher

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Hermes grenade launcher
Hermes grenade launcher
- Frag
- Frag
18
1
3
6
1
Blast (3"), Stun (1)
-
- Krak
- Krak
18
2
7
4
2
-
-
Firestorm

Many units within the Legion conduct warfare at pointblank distances, blasting their foes with a deluge of short ranged firepower.

A Model with this Special Rule does not have to make Volley Attacks as Snap Shots.

When a Model with this Special Rule makes Volley Attacks, it is not required to fire Snap Shots. In addition, after making Volley Attacks in Step 4 of the Charge Procedure, a Unit containing any Models with this Special Rule is not required to make a Charge Roll in Step 5. If the Controlling Player chooses not to make a Charge Roll in Step 5 of the Charge Procedure then the Charge Procedure ends immediately.
Armour (Front, Side, Rear) – This Characteristic will often be presented with various separate Sub-Characteristics, one for each of the Model’s Facings (see the Vehicles and Damage). Each of these Sub-Characteristics is used to determine the effect of a Model’s armour and how hard it is to defeat. When any Armour Sub-Characteristic reaches 0, then any Hit on that facing will result in an automatic Penetrating Hit without any Dice being rolled (if the Hit could have triggered a variable Special Rule, then that Rule is considered to automatically activate as part of the Hit).
Transport Capacity – This Characteristic is only used to determine how many Models may Embark upon a Model (see the Transport Rules). Most Models with the Vehicle Type will have a Transport Capacity of 0/-, which simply means that no Models may Embark upon that Model.
Hull Points (HP) – The Hull Points Characteristic is primarily used to determine a Model with the Vehicle Type’s capacity for receiving damage during a Battle, with a higher value allowing a Model to sustain more damage before it is removed from play. When a Model’s Hull Points Characteristic is reduced to 0 that Model is removed from play as a Casualty, see the Rules for Destroyed Vehicles here.
Turret Mounted – Turret Mounted Weapons may attack targets in any Hull arc (Front, Left, Right or Rear) without restriction.

Battlecannon

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Battlecannon
Battlecannon
48
1
8
4
2
Heavy (AP), Blast (3"), Pinning (1)
Auto
Auto-repair (X)

Some vehicles are either fitted with sophisticated auto-repair systems, or are simple enough in construction that their crew can effect repairs in the field. Such vehicles are able to shrug off minor damage that would otherwise reduce the fighting ability of their war machine.

A Model with this Special Rule has a bonus to Repair Tests to remove Statuses.

If the Active Player makes a Repair Test in the Statuses Sub-Phase of the End Phase for a Model with the Vehicle Type with this Special Rule, they ignore the usual Target Number of 6. Instead, the value of X attached to the variant of this Special Rule is used as the Target Number for that Repair Test. For example, a Model with the Auto-repair (4+) Special Rule would pass any Repair Tests made for it on the result of a 4 or higher.

Gravis autocannon

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Gravis autocannon
Gravis autocannon
48
3
8
4
2
Breaching (6+), Heavy (FP)
Auto

Twin lascannon

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Twin lascannon
Twin lascannon
48
2
9
2
1
Heavy (D), Armourbane
Las

Vanquisher cannon

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Vanquisher cannon
Vanquisher cannon
72
1
10
2
3
Heavy (D), Critical Hit (6+)
Auto
Co-axial (X) Mounted – Co-axial Mounted Weapons will be linked to another Weapon, specified by the value of X attached to the Mount Rule. A Co-axial Mounted Weapon may only attack targets in the same Firing Arcs as the Weapon to which it is linked. Furthermore, a Co-axial Mounted Weapon must always be used to attack the same target as the Weapon to which it is linked - if it cannot then it may not be used to attack.

Demolisher cannon

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Demolisher cannon
Demolisher cannon
24
1
12
3
3
Blast (3"), Breaching (5+), Ordnance (D), Stun (1)
-

Executioner plasma destroyer

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Executioner plasma destroyer
Executioner plasma destroyer
- Sustained fire
- Sustained fire
36
1
8
4
1
Blast (5"), Breaching (5+)
Plasma
- Maximal fire
- Maximal fire
36
1
8
4
2
Blast (5"), Breaching (4+), Overload (1)
Plasma

Volkite macro-saker

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Volkite macro-saker
Volkite macro-saker
45
8
6
5
2
Deflagrate (6)
Volkite
Auxilia Hull Weapons
Auxilia Pintle Weapons

Hunter-killer missile

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Hunter-killer missile
Hunter-killer missile
48
1
9
3
3
Armourbane, Limited (1)
Missile
Searchlights

Mounted ilium-beacons or simple electric torches, many vehicles mount some kind of portable light to aid in target identification and destruction in darkness and poor weather.

Searchlights allow attacks to ignore Shrouded Damage Mitigation Rolls.

The Target Number of any Shrouded Damage Mitigation Tests is increased by +1 (to a maximum of 6+) when making Tests as a consequence of wounds, Penetrating Hits or Glancing Hits inflicted by Shooting Attacks made by a Model that has searchlights that has Line of Sight to the Target Unit. Additionally, a Model with searchlights may not make Shrouded Damage Mitigation Tests to negate wounds, Penetrating Hits or Glancing Hits.
Dozer Blade

Dozer blades for the clearance of mines and other obstacles are a common feature of many armoured vehicles.

Dozer blades allow Models to ignore the Movement penalties of Difficult Terrain.

If the Controlling Player chooses for a Model with a dozer blade to enter any area of Difficult Terrain, the Unit does not apply a modifier to its movement during that Phase.
Flare Shield

Another of the Mechanicum’s specialised systems that only their high adepts truly understand, a flare shield is a directional electromagnetic flux field generator, rumoured by some to be a product of Dark Age technology from a source best left forgotten.

Attacks which hit a Model with a flare shield gain no benefit from the Armourbane Special Rule.

When Making Armour Penetration Tests against a Model with a flare shield, no Weapon may make use of the Armourbane Special Rule.

Charonite claws

Melee Weapon
Melee Weapon
IM
AM
SM
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Charonite claws
Charonite claws
I
A
7
3
2
Breaching (5+)
Power
Skirmish

Intended to scout enemy positions and screen the advance of heavier units. Skirmishers rely on speed and use of cover to survive rather than heavy armour. Such troops rarely fare well when pitted in open battle against true shock infantry.

The following Rules apply to all Models with the Skirmish Sub-Type:
Bitter Duty

Some warriors are marked by the dire weaponry they bear or the grim tactics in which they are trained. These dour cohorts are shunned by their brethren, whether out of respect for their burden or from fear of their rage.

Models with this Special Rule may not join Units that do not also have this Special Rule.

A Unit that includes any Models with this Special Rule can only join Units or be joined by other Models with this Special Rule.
Centreline Mounted – Centreline Mounted Weapons may only attack targets in the Centreline Firing Arc.

Earthshaker cannon

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Earthshaker cannon
Earthshaker cannon
240
1
5
4
2
Ordnance (RS), Blast (5"), Barrage (2), Breaching (6+), Pinning (1)
-

Medusa mortar

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Medusa mortar
Medusa mortar
36
1
5
4
2
Ordnance (RS), Blast (5"), Barrage (2), Breaching (5+), Pinning (2)
-

Gravis multi-laser array

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Gravis multi-laser array
Gravis multi-laser array
36
6
6
6
2
Suppressive (2)
Las
Slow and Purposeful

Many warriors are steady but sure, slow to advance but no less deadly for it.

Models with this Special Rule cannot Pursue fleeing enemy Units.

In Step 4 of the Resolution Sub-Phase, a Player that has won Combat cannot choose for a Unit that includes any Models with this Special Rule to Pursue, and must instead select another eligible option for that Unit.
Support Unit (X)

Following behind frontline forces and providing fire support to overcome especially dug-in foes, some units are not equipped for holding positions or seizing ground, and instead focus their attention on aiding their allies.

A Unit that contains Models with this Special Rule scores fewer Victory Points for Controlling Objective Markers.

A Unit that includes any Models with the Support Unit (X) Special Rule may only ever score a maximum number of Victory Points equal to the value of X for Controlling an Objective, regardless of the Value of that Objective, or any other Special Rules Models in that Unit might have (such as the Line (X) Special Rule).

Gravis heavy bolter battery

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Gravis heavy bolter battery
Gravis heavy bolter battery
36
8
5
4
1
Suppressive (2)
Bolt

Laser destroyer

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Laser destroyer
Laser destroyer
36
2
10
2
2
Heavy (D), Armourbane
Las

Quad launcher

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Quad launcher
Quad launcher
- Frag
- Frag
60
1
5
5
1
Heavy (FP), Blast (5"), Barrage (2)
-
- Shatter
- Shatter
36
4
7
4
1
Heavy (D), Armourbane
-
Wound Tests
Once a Unit has one or more Hits inflicted on it, whether a Rule has dictated their application or they have been inflicted as part of a Shooting Attack or Combat, a Wound Test must be made to resolve those Hits. The Rules presented here cover only the process of making Wound Tests and resolving their effects; See rules regarding inflicting Hits as part of a Shooting Attack or Combat.

A Wound Test must be made for each Hit inflicted on a Unit, but Wound Tests for Hits with different Strengths, AP values or Special Rules must be rolled separately so that all Players know which Hit is being resolved by a given Wound Test. The order in which differing Wound Tests are made is decided by the Player making the attacks (see the Rules for Shooting Attacks and the Fight Sub-Phase).

To make a Wound Test, roll a number of Dice equal to the number of Hits with the same Strength, AP, Damage and Special Rules that have been inflicted on the Model being rolled for. These Dice are rolled as a Test, using the Wound Table shown here to compare the Hit’s Strength and the Model’s Toughness to determine a Target Number for the Test.


As with other Tests, any Dice whose result equals or exceeds the Target Number has succeeded and inflicts a wound on the Target Unit. Wounds with different Strength, AP or Damage values should be resolved separately in order to streamline the Wound Test process.

Aethon missile battery

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Aethon missile battery
Aethon missile battery
30
1
4
5
2
Blast (5"), Barrage (1), Stun (1)
Missile

Volkite culverin

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Volkite culverin
Volkite culverin
45
3
6
5
1
Heavy (FP), Deflagrate (6)
Volkite

Heavy incinerator

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Heavy incinerator
Heavy incinerator
Template
1
6
4
1
Template, Panic (1), Shred (4+)
Flame

Melta lance

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Melta lance
Melta lance
18
1
9
2
4
Heavy (RS), Armourbane
Melta

Hunter-killer missile battery

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Hunter-killer missile battery
Hunter-killer missile battery
48
2
9
3
3
Armourbane, Limited (2)
Missile
Transport

From armoured transports, to fleet orbital shuttles and even more esoteric modes of travel, mounting infantry atop faster moving transports is an ancient tactic. The best transports offer a safe haven for fragile infantry as well as a means to traverse even the most difficult terrain at speed.

All Models with the Transport Sub-Type are bound by a set of Rules regarding how they operate:
Light Transport

Some transports are made to carry a lighter cargo, and the bulkiest of troops cannot make use of them in combat.

Models with this Special Rule cannot carry Models with the Bulky (X) Special Rule.

Models that have any variant of the Bulky (X) Special Rule may not Embark on a Model that has this Special Rule.
Access Points
Each Model with the Transport Sub-Type will have a number of Access Points defined in its entry. These are the doors, ramps and hatches that passengers use to get in and out of the Vehicle. All Access Points are defined as being within a specific Facing, corresponding to one of the four Armour Facings that most Models with the Vehicle Type have - for example, a Rhino has one Rear Access Point, and Access Points on both Side Facings. An Access Point must be physically represented on the noted Armour Facing, and when Models are Embarking or Disembarking using that Access Point they count all points on that Armour Facing as an Access Point. Where a Model has two Side Access Points, this indicates one Access Point on each Side Facing. If a Model has an Access Point on only one Side Facing, then this will be noted as Side (Left) Access Point or Side (Right) Access Point to indicate which Facing the Access Point is present on.

Models that do not have the Vehicle Type but that do have the Transport Sub-Type and a Base, count the entirety of the edge of their Base as an Access Point, regardless of the facing of any Access Points they have. Likewise, Models with the Flyer Sub-Type that are mounted on Flying Bases also count the entirety of the edge of their Base as an Access Point.

If any Models in the Embarking Unit are more than 2" from a Facing on the Transport Model that has an Access Point, then no Models can Embark and the Unit remains in play. If all Models in the Embarking Unit are within 2" of a Facing on the Model with the Transport Sub-Type that has an Access Point, then all Models in the Unit are removed from the Battlefield. Players may find it useful to mark or otherwise note which Unit has Embarked on which Model with the Transport Sub-Type and this information should be declared to all Players.

The entire process of Embarkation is resolved during the activation of the Embarking Unit during the Move SubPhase, and as such does not interfere with the activation and movement of the Model the Unit Embarks on. A Model may have Units Embark on it after it has been activated and moved, and also may be activated (if it has not already been activated) and then moved during the Move Sub-Phase after another Unit has Embarked on it.
Intercept
This Advanced Reaction allows a Unit to attack Units moving into play from Reserves.

Trigger: The Reactive Player may declare an Intercept Reaction whenever the Active Player brings a Unit into play from Reserves or Aerial Reserves. The declaration is made as soon as the last Model from the Unit is placed on the Battlefield and has made any moves it is permitted to make when it enters play.

Cost: The Reactive Player must spend 1 point of their Reaction Allotment to declare an Intercept Reaction - this cost paid as soon as the declaration is made.

Target: The Unit entering play from Reserves or Aerial Reserves is always the Target Unit of this Reaction. After declaring this Reaction, the Reactive Player must select one Unit under their control, this Unit must be able to draw a Line of Sight to at least one Model in the Target Unit. The selected Unit is the Reacting Unit.

Process
Once an Intercept Reaction has been declared, the Reactive Player may make a Shooting Attack for the Reacting Unit, targeting only the Target Unit. All attacks made as part of this Shooting Attack must be made as Snap Shots and Models with the Vehicle Type may only attack with Defensive Weapons.

Flare Launchers

Simple but robust, the flare launcher systems fitted to many Imperial aircraft provided a rudimentary countermeasure to many classes of tracking and guidance systems, decreasing the vulnerability of such aircraft to a plethora of antiair weapons.

Flare launchers provide an Invulnerable Save against the Interceptor Reaction.

A Model with flare launchers gains a 5+ Invulnerable Save against any Hits inflicted as part of an Intercept Reaction.

Hellstrike missile

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Hellstrike missile
Hellstrike missile
48
1
9
3
3
Armourbane, Limited (1)
Guided, Missile
Independent Fire

Whether by means of advanced targeting cogitators or by merit of numerous crew, each tasked with manning a separate gun, some armoured vehicles are capable of targeting numerous foes simultaneously. The hail of fire such vehicles can project far outweighs the lack of focus in their volleys.

Models with this Special Rule can shoot at multiple targets at full Ballistic Skill.

When making multiple Shooting Attacks in the same Shooting Phase, a Model with this Special Rule and the Vehicle Type does not have to make all attacks as Snap Shots.
Auxilia Sponson Weapons

Infernus cannon

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Infernus cannon
Infernus cannon
Template
1
6
4
2
Template (Hellstorm), Heavy (AP), Panic (2)
Flame
Explodes (X)

Volatile fuel, overpowered reactors or dangerous munitions can cause some war engines to explode when destroyed. Such explosions can prove devastating to friend and foe alike.

A Model with this Special Rule can explode and cause Hits to nearby Models and Units.

Before a Model with the Explodes (X) Special Rule is Removed as a Casualty, the Controlling Player must roll a Dice. If the result of that roll equals or exceeds the value of X attached to this variant of the Explodes (X) Special Rule, the Model explodes. Every Unit with one or more Models within 6" of an exploding Model suffers a number of Hits equal to the Base Wounds Characteristic or Base Hull Points Characteristic of the exploding Model. Each such Hit has a Strength of 8, an AP of ‘-’ and a Damage of 1. Once all Hits caused by this Special Rule have been resolved, the Model with the Explodes (X) Special Rule is Removed as a Casualty as normal.

Neutron beam laser

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Neutron beam laser
Neutron beam laser
36
2
10
2
2
Ordnance (D), Armourbane, Shock (Suppressed)
Las

Stormhammer cannon

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Stormhammer cannon
Stormhammer cannon
72
1
9
3
3
Blast (5"), Stun (2)
Auto

Twin battlecannon

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Twin battlecannon
Twin battlecannon
48
2
8
4
2
Heavy (AP), Blast (3"), Pinning (1)
Auto

Phase Lancet

An instrument of Jovan’s own unique design, incorporating what was rumoured to be xenos technology in its construction, the phase lancet was not only able to cut and cauterise with astonishing precision, but also disintegrate matter to a precise micro-volume inside a living body without piercing the flesh directly. The lethality of the device when used to defend its operator in extremis was as insidious as it was effective.

Melee Weapon
Melee Weapon
IM
AM
SM
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Phase Lancet
Phase lancet
+1
A
2
3
2
Rending (6+)
-
Unique

Among the warriors and war machines of the Horus Heresy there are many whose names are known throughout the galaxy. Such heroes, prototypes and icons are rare, and though their power can tip any battle in their favour, they can only be in one place at a time.

The following Rules apply to all Models with the Unique Sub-Type:
Specialist

Some warriors are renowned not purely for their skill at arms, but for the specific skills they bring to the aid of their fellows. Such warriors move among the ranks as they are needed, taking up position to use their abilities to the greatest advantage amid the shifting tide of battle.

The following Rules apply to all Models with the Specialist Sub-Type:
Medic (X)

Some specialists are trained in field medicine and carry specialist equipment, from a simple satchel of bandages and pain suppressants to the complex narthecium devices carried by Legion apothecaries. If able to tend to the injured in time, such warriors can be returned to the battle, enabling them to fight on.

This Special Rule determines the difficulty of any Recovery Tests made due to other Reactions or Special Rules.

If a Unit includes one or more Models with the Medic (X) Special Rule, then certain other Special Rules, Reactions or Gambits may allow the Controlling Player to make Recovery Tests for other Models in the same Unit. Note that the Medic (X) Special Rule does not allow Recovery Tests to be made, but simply establishes the Target Number for such Tests - Recovery Tests may only be made if another Special Rule, Reaction or Gambit allows them (see, for example, the Medic! Advanced Reaction).

Recovery Tests
A Recovery Test is made when one or more Unsaved Wounds are allocated to a Model, and is resolved by rolling a Dice and comparing the result to the value of ‘X’ in the variant of the Medic (X) Special Rule. If there is more than one variant of the Medic (X) Special Rule present in a Unit, then the Controlling Player chooses which is used to determine the Target Number, if the Recovery Test is successful then a single Unsaved Wound allocated to the Model has its Damage reduced by 1 (to a minimum of 0). If a Recovery Test is failed, then any Unsaved Wounds allocated to the Model are resolved as normal.
Surgical Suite

A complex device that only Aevos Jovan truly understands (or has the skill to make use of), the auto-gurney is equipped with servo-cutters and medical augury scanners that allow intricate operations to be performed on the battlefield by a small team.

A Model with this Special Rule allows Recovery Tests to be made in the Morale Sub-Phase, but is automatically Removed as a Casualty if it is ever the only Model in a Unit.

If a Unit that includes any Models with the Surgical Suite Special Rule is not Locked in Combat, before the Controlling Player makes a Characteristic Check for that Unit during the Morale Sub-Phase, they can make a Recovery Test for that Unit. If that Recovery Test is successful, that Player can subtract -2 from the result of the Characteristic Check. Only one Recovery Test can be made for each Unit in this way during each Morale Sub-Phase.

Additionally, if a Model with this Special Rule is ever the only remaining Model in a Unit, it is immediately Removed as a Casualty.
Triage

While the medicae orderlies who accompany Aevos Jovan may not share his exacting medical skills, they are highly trained at stabilising wounded Auxiliaries on the battlefield such that they may yet return to future battlefields.

Models with this Special Rule can give a version of Expendable (X) to Solar Auxilia Units.

While a Unit entirely composed of Models with the Solar Auxilia Trait includes any Models with this Special Rule, every Model in that Unit has the Expendable (X) Special Rule where the value of X is equal to the number of Models with the Triage Special Rule in the Unit.
Deep Strike

Deep strike deployments are usually conducted en-masse and at a distance from the enemy, lest the attacking force be destroyed in detail as it lands.

The Deep Strike Special Rule allows a Unit to enter play anywhere on the Battlefield.

A Unit that includes only Models with the Deep Strike Special Rule that enters play from Reserves may make a Deep Strike instead of deploying as described in the Reserves Rules. No more than one Unit may attempt a Deep Strike in a given Player Turn. The Unit attempting a Deep Strike may have another Unit without the Deep Strike Special Rule Embarked upon it if the Deep Striking Unit includes Models with the Transport Sub-Type (note that some Missions may allow more Units to attempt a Deep Strike in the same Player Turn. This will be specifically noted in the Mission Special Rules section of that Mission). Note that in Missions where the Reserves Mission Special Rule is not in use, the Deep Strike Special Rule has no effect. Furthermore, Units may not make use of the Deep Strike Special Rule during the first Battle Turn, even if they enter play from Reserves.

To perform a Deep Strike, the Active Player must declare an Eligible Unit that has entered play from Reserves in the Reserves Sub-Phase as the Deep Striking Unit. The Active Player must then select one Model from that Unit and place it anywhere on the Battlefield. This Model must be placed at least 1" away from any enemy Model, Battlefield Edge or piece of Impassable Terrain. Once this first Model has been placed, the remaining Models in the Unit must be placed within Unit Coherency with at least one other Model in the same Unit and within 6" of the first Model placed. No Models may be placed within 1" of an enemy Model, any Battlefield Edge or a piece of Impassable Terrain. Any Models that cannot be placed using these Rules must be Removed as a Casualty immediately. This deployment must take place during the Reserves Sub-Phase, and a Unit that deploys as a Deep Strike may not move in the Move Sub-Phase of the same Player Turn or have a Charge declared for it in the Charge Sub-Phase of the same Player Turn, but may make Shooting Attacks as normal. A Unit that is Embarked on a Model that is deployed as part of a Deep Strike may Disembark during the Move Sub-Phase of the same Player Turn, but may not make any move other than the move made to Disembark and may not have a Charge declared for it in the Charge Sub-Phase of the same Player Turn.

Enemy Units may declare Intercept Reactions against a Unit deployed as part of a Deep Strike, but not Reposition Reactions.

Ætherlabe staff

The Ætherlabe mounted upon the Navigator’s staff is used to aid the bearer in plotting the tides of the Immaterium, detecting the ætheric bow wave of any warp-borne approach.

Units may not Deep Strike close to a Model with an ætherlabe staff.

No Model may be placed within 8" of a Model with an ætherlabe staff as part of the Deep Strike Special Rule.
Trait: Psyker
Many of the Rules for psychic abilities will only be usable by a ‘Psyker’. A Psyker is any Model that has the Psyker Trait on their profile. As with all Traits, the Psyker Trait grants no Rules to a Model in and of itself, nor does it grant any Psychic Weapons, Powers or Reactions, it simply allows a Model to make use of Rules that require a Psyker in order to function, or as a trigger for Rules that target Psykers. For a Model to gain one or more Psychic Weapons, Powers or Reactions, they must either be listed on their profile or selected as options during Army Selection.
Force (X)

By force of will a trained battle-psyker can channel the eldritch power of the Warp into their weapons and magnify their power greatly. Such power can come at a great cost, and if the psyker’s control wavers, they may be devoured by the very power they sought to chain.

A Weapon with this Special Rule may double a Characteristic with a Willpower Check, but may suffer Perils of the Warp.

When selected to be used as part of a Combat or Shooting Attack, a Willpower Check may be made for the Model that will use this Weapon to make attacks. If it is successful then the Characteristic listed as X is doubled (if that Characteristic is AP, then the AP is instead changed to AP 2). If a double is rolled when making this Willpower Check then the Model using the Weapon to make attacks suffers Perils of the Warp.
Navigator’s Arts

A Navigator’s powers are amongst the most potent of any psyker caste, although they are rarely overtly offensive in nature. When pressed, however, Navigators are able to harness the tides of the empyrean and direct them to strike at their foes.

A Model with this Special Rule has a specific Psychic Discipline.

A Model with this Special Rule has the Navis Astrologis Psychic Discipline, gaining the following benefits:

Lidless Stare

(Psychic Weapon)

The Navigator opens their third eye and turns their baleful gaze upon the enemy. Those not quick enough to turn their heads are assailed by the unreal light of the Immaterium and rendered to shrivelled husks in an instant.

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Lidless Stare
Lidless stare
Template
1
2
3
1
Template, Force (D), Panic (1)
Psychic

Davinite Blade

These ritual blades are utilised by the Davinite Priests in their unknowable rituals. Bearing runes of power or dipped in strange unguents, their touch brings death.

Melee Weapon
Melee Weapon
IM
AM
SM
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Davinite Blade
Davinite blade
+1
A
S
-
1
Poisoned (5+)
-
Ritual Healing

The sorcerous healing techniques of the Davinite lodges are held in acrimony, for it is whispered that their ministrations may have played some role in swaying Horus to treachery.

A Model with this Special Rule has the Resurrection Psychic Reaction.

A Model with this Special Rule has the Resurrection Psychic Reaction from the Thaumaturgy Psychic Discipline.
Resurrection
(Psychic Reaction, Blessing)

The ultimate art of the thaumaturge, and one they are loath to employ in any but the most dire of situations. Only at the very point of death can it be halted, and only with great risk can it be reversed. Thus, only the most valued warriors are deemed worthy of such an invidious salvation.

This Power can be used in the Shooting Phase and can return a single Casualty to the Unit with all Wounds restored.

Trigger: The Reactive Player may choose to declare a Resurrection Psychic Reaction in the Shooting Phase, at the start of Step 11 of any Shooting Attack made by the Active Player.

Cost: The Reactive Player must spend 1 point of their Reaction Allotment to declare a Resurrection Psychic Reaction - this cost paid as soon as the declaration is made.

Focus: The Focus of this Psychic Reaction must be a Model with the Thaumaturge Trait and under the Reactive Player’s Control, and must be a part of the Unit targeted by the Shooting Attack that triggers this Psychic Reaction.

Target: The Target Unit must be the Unit that is the target of the Shooting Attack that triggered the Reaction.

Duration: If successfully Manifested, the effects of this Psychic Reaction are resolved immediately.

Process
  1. Once the Focus and Target Unit have been decided, make a Manifestation Check.
  2. If the Manifestation Check is successful then, before any Models in the Target Unit are Removed as Casualties, the Controlling Player of the Target Unit must select one Model being Removed as a Casualty and roll a Dice. If the Dice roll for the chosen Model is equal to or higher than a ‘4’, then that Model is not Removed as a Casualty and is returned to play in Unit Coherency with its Unit and with its Wounds Characteristic set to its Base Value, as listed on that Model’s profile. This Psychic Reaction has no effect on Models that do not have a Wounds Characteristic and if the result of the Manifestation Check causes Perils of the Warp, then this instance of Perils of the Warp is resolved after any Models are returned to the Unit.
  3. If the Manifestation Check fails then there is no further effect.

Bolter

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Bolter
Bolter
24
2
4
5
1
-
Bolt

Flamer

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Flamer
Flamer
Template
1
4
5
1
-
Flame

Grenade launcher

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Grenade launcher
Grenade launcher
- Frag
- Frag
24
1
3
6
1
Blast (3")
-
- Krak
- Krak
24
1
6
4
2
-
-

Plasma gun

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Plasma gun
Plasma gun
- Sustained fire
- Sustained fire
24
2
6
4
1
Breaching (6+)
Plasma
- Maximal fire
- Maximal fire
24
2
7
4
1
Breaching (5+), Overload (1)
Plasma

Rotor cannon

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Rotor cannon
Rotor cannon
24
3
3
-
1
Heavy (FP), Suppressive (1)
Auto

Meltagun

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Meltagun
Meltagun
12
1
8
2
3
Melta (6)
Melta
Medicae Support

The Solar Auxilia maintain cadres of trained medicae, assigning them to those units that will stand at the forefront of the battle. Though lacking the advanced equipment of the Space Marine apothecaries, these healers are no less dedicated to the protection of their brethren in even the most deadly firefight.

Medicae Auxiliaries are deployed and operate individually.

Although included in an Army as a Unit that includes multiple Models, each Model with this Special Rule is considered to be a separate Unit for all other purposes, including Deployment and the scoring of Victory Points.
Compact

Some machines are designed to facilitate transport on the various armoured conveyors available to the armies of the Imperium. Some are flexible enough to fit through apertures intended for smaller beings, while some are created so they can be folded into a compact travel mode and others are simply small.

A Model with this Special Rule may Embark or Disembark from a Transport, even if its Type would normally stop it from doing so.

A Model with this Special Rule may Embark and Disembark from a Model with the Transport Sub-Type as though it had the Infantry Type. This does not replace its existing Type or grant it any other benefits of the Infantry Type, nor allow it to interact with other Rules or Special Rules that target or affect the Infantry Type.
Demolition Vehicle

These vehicles are not intended for frontline combat, but rather as demolition tools to bring down buildings or fortifications that have stymied the advance of friendly forces. In the most extreme of situations they can be employed as weapons, but are vulnerable to counter-fire from the enemy.

Vehicles with this Special Rule can make Charges and inflict automatic Hits on every Model in a Combat if they are successful.

A Model with this Special Rule and the Vehicle Type may have Charges declared for it in the Assault Phase. If a Charge Roll made for a Model with this Special Rule and the Vehicle Type is failed, the Model is Removed as a Casualty, but immediately explodes as described in the Explodes (X) Special Rule. If a Charge Roll made for a Model with this Special Rule is successful, then at the end of Step 2 of the Fight Sub-Phase of that Combat, every Unit in that Combat suffers a number of automatic Hits equal to the number of Models in that Unit. Each such Hit has a Strength of 8, an AP of - and a Damage of 2, as well as the Armourbane Special Rule. Once these Hits have been fully resolved, the Model with this Special Rule is immediately Removed as a Casualty, and any version of the Explodes (X) Special Rule it has is ignored.
Embarking
Embarking covers the Rules for moving Units ‘into’ transports.

When selected during the Move Sub-Phase of the Movement Phase, the Controlling Player may have a Unit Embark on a friendly Model that has the Transport Sub-Type. The Model upon which the Unit is attempting to Embark must have a Transport Capacity high enough for all Models in the Unit to Embark - if the Transport Capacity is not high enough then any attempt to Embark is automatically unsuccessful.

To Embark upon a Model with the Transport Sub-Type, a Unit must end or begin the Move Sub-Phase with all Models in the Unit within 2" of any point on a Facing on that Model that has an Access Point.
Rapid

Whether by means of a superior engine, enhanced fuel mix or other arcane technology, some vehicles are able to apply bursts of speed far in excess of other engines of war.

The following Rules apply to all Models with the Rapid Sub-Type:

Twin heavy bolter

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Twin heavy bolter
Twin heavy bolter
36
6
5
4
1
-
Bolt
Automated Fire Protocols

Tarantula sentry guns provide area denial fire, engaging enemies who move within their sensor range with their potent heavy weaponry.

A Model with this Special Rule may not make Shooting Attacks except as part of a Reaction.

A Model with this Special Rule may not be selected to make a Shooting Attack during the Controlling Player’s Shooting Phase and may only make the Overwatch Reaction and the Intercept and Automated Fire Advanced Reactions. When making a Shooting Attack as part of any of these Advanced Reactions, a Model with this Special Rule may attack with any weapons it has, not just Defensive Weapons.

Automated Fire Advanced Reaction
Trigger: The Reactive Player may declare the Automated Fire Advanced Reaction in Step 2 of the Move Sub-Phase process if an enemy Unit ends a move within 48" of a Unit under the Reactive Player’s Control that only includes Models with the Automated Fire Protocols Special Rule.

Cost: The Automated Fire Advanced Reaction has no cost.

Target: The Target Unit is always the Unit whose Move triggered the Reaction. The Reactive Player must select one Unit under their control that only includes Models with the Automated Fire Protocols Special Rule that is within 48" of the Target Unit. That Unit is the Reacting Unit.

Process
  1. Once the Automated Fire Advanced Reaction has been declared, the Reactive Player makes a Shooting Attack with the Reacting Unit. This Shooting Attack must target the Target Unit of this Advanced Reaction.
  2. Once the Shooting Attack made as part of this Reaction has been completely resolved, including removing any Casualties, the Active Player must then completely resolve any remaining elements of the Target Unit’s movement.
Independent Sentries

Tarantula sentries are deployed in key locations on the battlefield, calculated to cover crucial choke-points and provide optimal overlapping firepower with other units.

Tarantulas are deployed and operate individually.

Although included in an army as a Unit that includes multiple Models, each Model with this Special Rule is considered to be a separate Unit for all other purposes, including Deployment and the scoring of Victory Points.
Assault Phase: Overwatch
This Reaction allows the Reactive Player to make more powerful Volley Attacks.

Trigger: The Reactive Player may declare an Overwatch Reaction during Step 4 of the Charge process of any Charge declared by the Active Player.

Cost: The Reactive Player must spend 1 point of their Reaction Allotment to declare an Overwatch Reaction - this cost paid as soon as the declaration is made.

Target: For an Overwatch Reaction, the Target Unit is always the Unit whose Charge triggered the Reaction. The Reacting Unit is always the Unit that was declared as the target of the Charge that triggered this Reaction.

Process
  1. Once an Overwatch Reaction has been declared, and once the Active Player has resolved any Volley Attacks they choose to make, the Reactive Player may choose to have the Reacting Unit make a Shooting Attack instead of a Volley Attack.
  2. This Shooting Attack must target the Target Unit and is made at full Ballistic Skill, not as Snap Shots, and may be made using any Ranged Weapon. No Cover Tests or Shrouded Damage Mitigation Tests may be taken against wounds inflicted as part of an Overwatch Reaction.
  3. Once the Shooting Attack made as part of this Reaction has been fully resolved, the Players must move to Step 5 of the Charge Process as normal. However, if, once this Shooting Attack has been fully resolved, all Models in the Target Unit or Reacting Unit have been Removed as Casualties then the Charge process is ended immediately and the Active Player may select another Unit to resolve a Charge for.
Defensive Weapons – All Weapons on a Model with the Vehicle Type that have a Strength Characteristic of 6 or less are Defensive Weapons. Other Weapons may also be specifically designated as Defensive Weapons on their profile. When a Player chooses to have a Model with the Vehicle Type attack multiple different Units in the same Shooting Phase, Defensive Weapons do not have to make their attacks as Snap Shots.

Twin Multi-laser

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Twin Multi-laser
Twin multi-laser
36
6
6
6
1
Suppressive (2)
Las

Avenger bolt cannon

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Avenger bolt cannon
Avenger bolt cannon
36
5
6
3
1
Suppressive (1)
Bolt

Proteus Laser Destroyer

The Proteus pattern laser destroyer mounts its counterpart’s quadruple las emitters inside a single bulky collimator barrel, a requirement of the lower-grade materials used in the emitters’ focussing arrays.

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Proteus Laser Destroyer
Proteus laser destroyer
36
2
10
2
2
Heavy (D), Armourbane, Overload (1)
Las

Twin Earthshaker Cannon

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Twin Earthshaker Cannon
Twin earthshaker cannon
240
2
5
4
2
Ordnance (RS), Blast (5"), Barrage (2), Breaching (6+), Pinning (1)
-

Twin heavy stubber

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Twin heavy stubber
Twin heavy stubber
36
6
4
6
1
-
Auto

Twin avenger bolt cannon

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Twin avenger bolt cannon
Twin avenger bolt cannon
36
10
6
3
1
Suppressive (2)
Bolt

Twin vanquisher cannon

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Twin vanquisher cannon
Twin vanquisher cannon
72
2
10
2
3
Heavy (D), Critical Hit (6+)
Auto

Praetor Launcher

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Praetor Launcher
Praetor launcher
72
1
8
5
2
Blast (7"), Barrage (2), Suppressive (2)
Missile

Baneblade cannon

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Baneblade cannon
Baneblade cannon
82
1
8
3
2
Blast (7"), Pinning (1)
Auto

Twin heavy flamer

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Twin heavy flamer
Twin heavy flamer
Template
1
5
4
1
Template, Panic (2)
Flame

Hellhammer cannon

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Hellhammer cannon
Hellhammer cannon
24
1
10
3
3
Blast (5"), Stun (1)
Auto

Tremor cannon

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Tremor cannon
Tremor cannon
60
1
6
4
1
Blast (10"), Pinning (2), Suppressive (2), Stun (2)
-

Vulcan mega-bolter

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Vulcan mega-bolter
Vulcan mega-bolter
48
12
7
3
2
Suppressive (3)
Bolt

Plasma blastgun

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Plasma blastgun
Plasma blastgun
- Sustained fire
- Sustained fire
60
1
8
2
5
Blast (3")
Plasma
- Maximal fire
- Maximal fire
60
1
9
2
7
Blast (5"), Overload (1)
Plasma
Macro-auspex

Specialised auspexes designed to efficiently target larger war engines at great distances are often fitted to the largest titan weapons. These devices allow the long range duels of such gargantuan engines to be conducted at distances too great for most targeting units, but are less use when targeting smaller, closer enemies.

When not attacking Titans, Knights or Super-heavies, a Weapon with this Special Rule must make Snap Shots.

If the target of a Shooting Attack is not a Unit entirely composed of Models with the Titan, Knight or Super-heavy Sub-Type or other Models with a Base Wounds Characteristic of 10 or more, then all attacks made for a Weapon with this Special Rule must be made as Snap Shots.

Volcano cannon

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Volcano cannon
Volcano cannon
120
1
13
2
12
Blast (3"), Macro-Auspex
Las

Stormsword siege cannon

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Stormsword siege cannon
Stormsword siege cannon
18
1
12
3
6
Blast (5"), Ordnance (R), Stun (2)
-

Macro-bomb cluster

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Macro-bomb cluster
Macro-bomb cluster
18
1
8
4
2
Blast (10"), Pinning (2), Limited (1)
-

Gravis autocannon array

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Gravis autocannon array
Gravis autocannon array
48
8
8
4
2
Breaching (6+)
Auto

Twin rotary defence cannon

Ranged Weapon
Ranged Weapon
R
FP
RS
AP
D
Special Rules
Traits
Twin rotary defence cannon
Twin rotary defence cannon
36
6
5
4
1
Breaching (6+)
Auto
Armoured Warfare

The officers of Armour Tercios monitored the status of their subordinates constantly, allowing them to direct screening units and diversionary attacks should any individual vehicle become compromised that their crews might attempt hasty repairs.

Models with this Special Rule provide the Auto-repair (4+) Special Rule to nearby Units with the Armour Tercio Trait.

Any Model with the Armour Tercio Trait gains the Auto-repair (4+) Special Rule as long as it is within 18" of a Friendly Model with this Special Rule.
Precision Bombardment

The Artillery Tercios of the Solar Auxilia earned a reputation for prodigious accuracy, combining a mix of rangefinding barrages and auspex systems to rapidly zero in on their targets.

Models with this Special Rule decrease the Scatter distance of Shooting Attacks made by nearby Models with the Artillery Tercio Trait.

When making a Shooting Attack for a Model with the Artillery Tercio Trait which is in a Unit containing at least one Model within 18" of one or more Friendly Models with this Special Rule, the Ballistic Skill Characteristic of the attacking Model is subtracted from the total result of the Dice rolled when determining Scatter distance.
Pre-emptive Strike

Primarily manoeuvre units, Scout Tercios required near-perfect coordination in order to perform the hit-and-run warfare for which they were famed, lest they be caught in the turmoil of melee, where their sentinel mounts would become as much a hindrance as a boon.

Models with this Special Rule confer the Firestorm Special Rule to nearby Models with the Scout Tercio Trait.

Any Model with the Scout Tercio Trait gains the Firestorm Special Rule as long as at least one Model in the same Unit is within 18" of a Friendly Model with this Special Rule.
Hold the Line

Deployed as linebreakers and a heavy reserve, Veletarii Tercios would inevitably see combat against some of the most fearsome foes encountered by the Solar Auxilia, and were relied upon to weather the inevitable hail of shot as their charge closed.

Models with this Special Rule provide a Feel No Pain Damage Mitigation Roll to nearby Models with the Veletaris Tercio Trait against Volley and Reaction Attacks.

Any Model with the Veletaris Tercio Trait, the Vanguard (X) Special Rule and the Infantry Type gains the Feel No Pain (5+) Special Rule against any wounds inflicted by Shooting Attacks made as part of a Reaction or a Volley Attack as long as at least one Model in the same Unit is within 18" of a Friendly Model with this Special Rule.