Each Warhammer army book describes in detail the many different kinds of magic item that each army can use. Here we shall examine the magic items that are commonly used by all races. Where a model has the option of choosing one or more magic items, it will be clearly stated in his army list entry, as will any restrictions on the magic items he can take. If a magic item is listed both here and in your Warhammer army book, use the points value printed with the latter – some races have lesser or greater access to certain magic items, which is reflected in their points value.

In addition to any specific restrictions noted in the relevant Warhammer army book, there are rules that govern the selection of all magic items, regardless of the bearer's allegiance. These can be summarised as follows: