Black Templars get a new 40k Codex, Crusade Ancient, and Execrator mini, which sounds great, but the styling seems to be a bit off… Here’s the lowdown.
Updated on June 23rd, 2025, by Sam Duguid with the latest Black Templars Execrator Preview.
So, Games Workshop dropped a fresh Black Templars Codex Supplement and a new miniature: the Crusade Ancient. On paper, this should be a big moment for fans of the Emperor’s most zealous sons. Crusades, banners, righteous fury—you know the drill.
But let’s talk about what this new Warhammer 40k release really brings to the table, both for collectors and players.
The Black Templar Execrator Hits the Roster
The new Black Templar Execrator Chaplain joins the Space Marine lineup as the third distinct Chaplain variant, following the traditional and Judiciar-styled versions. We think it makes sense that the Black Templars—arguably the most zealous of Chapters—would get their own flavor of frontline preacher.
The Execrator brings a solid melee buff to the table with Remorseless Persecution, letting a joined unit Advance and Charge, which opens up some tactical options for Sword Brethren and assault-heavy builds.
For a unit designed to represent the fury of the Black Templars, the Execrator model feels more restrained than expected. The sculpt isn’t bad—it’s clean and recognizable—but it doesn’t quite deliver the visual punch we were hoping for. The pose feels familiar, and outside of a few character-specific details, it lacks the flair that might separate it from other Chaplains on the shelf.
That said, it’s a solid base for conversions, especially for those who want to push the Templar theme harder. It seems like a welcome addition, rather than a showstopper—more of a functional upgrade than a centerpiece.
Crusade Ancient (Now With 12% More Ribbons!)
Here’s the real headliner: the Crusade Ancient. A new miniature in the Black Templars range is always welcome—especially when it’s a character model. This one carries a banner, has a stoic pose, and comes with two adornment options: a generic shield or an Ork skull from Armageddon. Cue the chants of holy vengeance.
But let’s be honest—the sculpt doesn’t exactly set hearts ablaze. The details are fine but not standout. The banner, which should be the centerpiece, ends up looking like a cloth popsicle stick with ribbons.
Swap the head and you’ve seen most of this kit before. It feels like it’s playing it safe instead of going full zealot.
What This Means for Black Templars Players
Getting two new models is better than getting one, like the other recent factions, for sure. The Black Templars are one of the most visually iconic Space Marine Chapters, dripping with opportunity for bold design choices, so it makes sense. Sure, we’ve seen their Gothic-styled armor, power weapons, and purity seals galore.
But yet, here we are with a banner bearer and a new chaplain that may barely register.
Overall, it isn’t all bad, though, as if you’re into narrative campaigns, the new Crusade rules might scratch that lore-loving itch. Plus, existing players can still enjoy the rules refresh for matched play as well.
Just don’t expect this to win over anyone who wasn’t already on board with a smaller update for these sons of Dorn.
Codex Supplement: Bold Crusade or Bland Parade?
The new Codex Supplement: Black Templars rolls up flying the Chapter’s proud iconography—but the cover art feels like it missed a step. At a glance, it’s unmistakably Black Templars: grim knight vibes, lots of black and gold, and a whole lot of holy menace. But give it a second look, and the cracks start to show.
The proportions are oddly off—like someone hit “warp” in Photoshop and called it done. The composition lacks the punch you’d expect from a crusading chapter built on righteous fury.
There’s no real focal point, no standout element that says, “This is why you pick Black Templars.” It’s as if the brief from the GW Board of directors was “make it look Warhammer-y” and everyone nodded without asking for more.
Compared to previous codex covers, this one just feels safe. Not awful, just… there. You’d think a chapter obsessed with pageantry and visual intimidation would get a bit more flair. Instead, we get something that looks more like a placeholder than a proclamation.
The internal artwork might redeem things—we’ll see. But if we’re judging this book by its cover? It’s not exactly a crusade banner worth rallying behind.
Final Thoughts From Us
Sure, the Crusade Ancient doesn’t offend, but it also doesn’t impress. It’s a safe release, and safe is the last thing the Black Templars should be. This is a Chapter known for starting holy wars because someone looked at them funny. A release like this should’ve matched that energy.
So if you’re looking to expand your crusading forces, this update won’t hurt. Just don’t expect it to carry the banner of innovation.
You might be better off kitbashing your own standard bearer or chaplain and diving into the Crusade rules with a bit of creativity, because that’s where the real hobby magic still lives.
Learn About the Black Templars Here!
