Modelling compatibility

[Inquisitor-Ren]

Hello my fellow B&C members. I recently found a gaming hobby shop near me that sells GW models for cheaper than direct from GW. Intend on buying some space marines (blank for chapter customization).

 

One of these models is an Astartes commander in regular Astartes power armor, but it has a weird robed chest. How fluid is the compatibility between space marines models? I wish to replace the weird robe with an Aquila or an uncovered wings chest. In addition, how compatible are the other (non Terminator) Astartes parts with one another so I know for future reference?

[Peredyne]

For the most part, they are completely compatible, but anything made prior to 2014 has the torso tabs reversed, so in some cases, you will have to trim off the tabs to get the torso halves to sit flush with each other. It's easy to do. Earlier special weapons might be a problem if they don't have the hand attached, so always try to source older arms that have the hands attached if you can.

 

Also, get some blue tac and test fit prior to gluing. Some of the newer shoulder pads don't fit well with things like Jump Packs, etc.

[Grotsmasha]

It really depends on the model. Some of the newer clam-pack characters aren't as multi-part as they used to be, you may find the chest is attached to some other part of the model and it won't be an easy swap. If you can tell us exactly which model it is, we'll be better able to advise you.

 

Generally speaking though, almost all of the SM ranges are completely interchangeable with little to no work.

 

Cheers,

Jono

[Inquisitor-Ren]

These are the two items I wish to interchange the torsos from:

 

http://www.games-workshop.com/en-US/Space-Marine-Commander

http://www.games-workshop.com/en-US/Space-Marines

[Peredyne]

The Commander is the classic multipart commander so his parts can be used on every other multipart model. The Marines, however are the 4-piece snap togethers (base, body, bolter with hands and backpack. No swapping there without serious cutting. The commander includes multiple heads and weapons, so you should be able to build him as you want without pulling parts.

 

The "robe" in question is a separate tabard piece that you do not have to use at all. The rope/tassel is sculpted on the torso, so if that bothers you, check with a local space marine player and see if they have a torso piece they will give you. Other than that, I would recommend picking up the Command Squad. There are always extra torso fronts in that and it is completely compatible with the commander.