Salamanders are one of the most visually distinct Space Marine chapters - bright green armour, jet-black skin and plenty of fire and forge imagery. The strong, saturated green makes them pop on the table, and the dark skin is a fun, unusual detail to paint.
The signature look
Vivid green armour (brighter and more saturated than Dark Angels), black weapons and trim, gold/brass forge details, and the chapter's characteristic green glow on power weapons and drakes. Salamanders are proud of their fire and forge heritage, so flame motifs and heat-stained metal fit well.
Painting the green armour
Use the ramp above and keep the green bright. A green contrast over a white undercoat is a quick way to a clean, vivid basecoat; edge highlight with a lighter, slightly yellow-green for definition.
Black skin and fiery details
- Skin - basecoat black/very dark grey, then highlight with cool dark greys and a touch of purple or blue on the high points so it reads as skin, not just black plastic. Salamanders famously have glowing red/orange eyes - a tiny dot of bright orange sells it.
- Flames and heat - blend orange to yellow on flamer tanks and weapon glows; heat-stain exhausts with thin blue and purple glazes over metal.
Tips and common mistakes
- Keep the green saturated. Salamanders should look bright and bold.
- Don't leave skin flat black. Grey highlights and a bright eye make it read as flesh.
- Use the eyes. Glowing orange eyes are a quick, iconic touch.