Starting a new Warhammer 40,000 army can involve choosing models, learning rules and building a collection that works well on the tabletop. A 40K Combat Patrol provides a convenient way to enter the game with a themed force designed for smaller-scale battles.
What Is A 40K Combat Patrol?
A 40K Combat Patrol is a boxed force for Warhammer 40,000 that contains a selection of miniatures representing a specific faction. Combat Patrol games use fixed army rules and are designed to provide a more accessible way to play without requiring players to build a large army first.
Each Combat Patrol focuses on a particular faction and includes models that can be used together as a playable force.
What Comes In A Combat Patrol?
The contents vary depending on the faction and box, but a Combat Patrol can include:
- Infantry units
- Character models
- Specialist units
- Larger or more powerful models
- Faction-specific miniatures
The box is designed to provide a starting force, making it useful for players who want to begin collecting a particular Warhammer 40,000 faction.
How Does Combat Patrol Work?
Combat Patrol uses its own rules and datasheets to help create balanced games between different factions. Players use the models included in their Combat Patrol and follow the relevant rules for that force.
This makes the format easier to approach than building a full-sized army using a large collection of units and custom army lists.
Why Choose A 40K Combat Patrol?
One of the biggest advantages is accessibility. New players can start with a relatively small collection and learn the fundamentals of Warhammer 40,000 before expanding.
Other benefits include:
- A complete themed force
- Easier army building
- Smaller and faster games
- Faction-specific rules
- An introduction to Warhammer 40,000 gameplay
- A starting point for expanding an army
Combat Patrol can also be useful for experienced players who want to try a different faction without immediately collecting a large army.
How To Choose A Combat Patrol
The best box depends on which faction and play style appeal to you. Consider the models included, the visual style of the army and whether you enjoy aggressive, defensive, ranged or close-combat strategies.
It is also worth checking the current rules and box contents before purchasing because Games Workshop periodically updates its Combat Patrol range.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Combat Patrol Good For Beginners?
Yes. The format provides a straightforward way to start playing Warhammer 40,000 with a smaller force and simplified army-building requirements.
How Many Models Are In A Combat Patrol?
The number varies between factions. Each box contains a different combination of units designed for its particular Combat Patrol force.
Can Combat Patrol Models Be Used In Larger Games?
Many Combat Patrol miniatures can also become part of a larger Warhammer 40,000 army, although the rules and army-building requirements differ between game formats.
Is Combat Patrol A Separate Game From Warhammer 40,000?
Combat Patrol is a game format within the Warhammer 40,000 setting, designed around smaller, ready-to-play forces and dedicated rules.
Start Building A Warhammer 40,000 Force
For players who want to experience tabletop battles without immediately building a large army, this format provides a practical starting point. A 40K Combat Patrol
can introduce new players to miniatures, faction rules and tactical gameplay while giving experienced hobbyists an easy way to explore another army. Once players become comfortable with their force, they can gradually expand their collection and explore larger Warhammer 40,000 battles.
