In Warhammer 40,000, the fundamental grenade rule dictates that only one model within a unit can use a grenade when that unit shoots. This is a singular, crucial restriction that applies across all grenade types.
Grenades are treated as a special type of weapon within the game. Unlike other ranged weapons where multiple models might fire simultaneously, the use of a grenade is strictly limited to a single model per shooting phase for the entire unit. This means that regardless of how many models in a unit are equipped with grenades, only one will be able to throw one.
Key Aspects of the Grenade Rule
The grenade rule simplifies gameplay by ensuring that grenade attacks are a tactical choice rather than a mass-effect barrage.
- One Model Per Unit: When a unit declares a shooting attack, and it wishes to use a grenade, only one model from that unit can perform the grenade attack. No other models in the unit can use their grenades in the same shooting phase.
- Single Attempt: This is a "one attempt" rule for the entire unit. Even if a unit has multiple types of grenades available (e.g., Frag and Krak), it can only choose to throw one grenade with one model.
- Universal Application: This rule applies to all types of grenades found in the game, including:
- Frag Grenades
- Krak Grenades
- Haywire Grenades
- Shock Grenades
- Blight Grenades
- Photon Grenades
- Plasma Grenades
Practical Implications
This specific rule ensures that grenades are used strategically rather than overwhelming opponents with numerous, simultaneous attacks.
For example:
- If you have a squad of five Space Marines, and each is equipped with a frag grenade, you can still only choose one of those marines to throw a single frag grenade during your shooting phase.
- If your unit includes both a model with a frag grenade and another with a krak grenade, you must choose which one to use. You cannot throw both in the same shooting phase.
Grenade Rule Summary
To clarify the exact parameters of grenade usage, consider the following breakdown:
| Aspect of Grenade Rule | Description |
|---|---|
| Usage Limit | Only one model within a unit can use a grenade during the shooting phase. |
| Attempt Limit | Regardless of the grenade type carried, a unit is limited to a single grenade attempt per shooting phase. |
| Applicability | This rule applies universally to all named grenade types (Frag, Krak, Haywire, Shock, Blight, Photon, Plasma). |
This core rule highlights grenades as a precise tool rather than a widespread offensive option, requiring players to make tactical decisions about when and where to employ their limited grenade resources.
