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The past few months have been a golden era for the Adeptus Custodes, with the Emperor’s loyal protectors seeing several major new products from Games Workshop. This includes a brand new Adeptus Custodes Combat Patrol, along with an updated 10th edition Adeptus Custodes Codex.
GW has also recently unveiled a new Adeptus Custodes Shield-Captain model, which will soon be available both individually and as part of their upcoming Auric Champions Battleforce.
So just what can fans expect from this latest defender of the Golden Throne? Below, we break out all the details.
What’s Included With the Adeptus Custodes Shield-Captain Model?
Over the past few years, Games Workshop has released a number of different Shield-Captain models, all of which have been either optional build or included with other units.
For example, the Custodian Guard boxset, featured the ability to build one of the models as a Shield-Captain. Similarly, the Custodian Wardens included a Shield-Captain along with the other four miniatures.
This new 2024 Shield-Captain, however, is the first standalone model that has ever been released by Games Workshop. The figure includes a new load out featuring a praesidium shield and pyrithite spear (both of which have in-game capabilities). The model also includes an optional helmet or bare head, plus a number of additional accessories and transfers.
What is the Datasheet and Point Value for the New Shield-Captain?
The datasheet for the new Shield-Captain will officially be made available in the upcoming Adeptus Custodes Codex for 10th edition, but stats for similar models can be found on Page 21-22 of Games Workshop’s free Adeptus Custodes Army Rules PDF.
We do know that the new Shield-Captain model will include a new pyrithite spear which functions as both a range and melee weapon, with Games Workshop releasing some information on key stats.
According to the most recent Munitorium Field Manual (which breaks out the point value of all Warhammer 40K 10th edition models), a Shield-Captain comes in at 140 points, although that existing model does not wield a pyrithite spear, so it’s possible the value may change.
What is An Adeptus Custodes Shield-Captain?
In the vast lore of Warhammer 40K, Shield-Captains are one of the most elite members of the Imperium of Man. Clad in ornate, golden Auramite armor and wielding a variety of powerful and sacred weapons, they are stationed primarily on Holy Terra where they serve as elite guardians, protecting both the Emperor and the secrets of the Imperium itself.
As officers, Shield-Captains are responsible for overseeing the ranks of their fellow Adeptus Custodes. Each Captain has undergone centuries of rigorous training, psychological conditioning and battlefield experience, emerging as a leader among the legion of near-immortals.
Notably, despite their fanatical devotion to the Golden Throne, Shield-Captains pride themselves on their ability to question the orders of their superiors, remembering well the blind devotion that lead to the Horus Hersey and the near-fatal wounding of their beloved Emperor.
How much Is the new Adeptus Custodes Shield-Captain?
Games Workshop has not yet confirmed the price, but the new Shield-Captain will likely have an MSRP of around $60 USD if you purchase it directly from the Games Workshop website. As noted previously, it will first be released in the upcoming Auric Champions Battleforce before it’s made available as a standalone product.
As always, prices may vary if you buy the model from your local game store or from Amazon (where discounts and sales may allow you to pick him up for a bit cheaper, with most third-party retailers offering at least 10-15% discounts).
When Will the New Adeptus Custodes Shield-Captain Model Be Released?
Games Workshop has not yet confirmed the release date, but it will likely be in the May 2024 to coincide with the launch of the the upcoming Adeptus Custodes Codex.
Notably, in recent months Games Workshop has been having difficulties meeting pre-order demand, with some third-party game stores being unable to get their hands on product, so you may want to check with your local retailer to see if and when the new Shield-Captain is available in your area.
Final Thoughts
Shield-Captains are a key element of the legions of the Adeptus Custodes, so it’s great to see this unit finally get a standalone figure with a new sculpt. In fact, it looks absolutely fantastic and the addition of some new weaponry in the form of the pyrithite spear opens up some interesting new tactical possibilities.
We’ll be keeping an eye on the new Shield-Captain model in the days ahead and will update this page with more information as it’s available. Below is also a video from Games Workshop showing more details of the new model.
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Zachary Birch lives in Medford, Massachusetts and has been a dedicated war gamer for over 15 years, playing pretty much ever system under the sun. Orks remain his favorite Warhammer 40K army (because nothing beats stomping gits into the ground). He also enjoys playing video games, reading, playing the guitar and shouting “WAAAGH!” at inappropriate times.
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