Understanding ordnance in Apex Legends: Throwables and legend abilities
These throwables are your bread-and-butter in Apex.Apex Legends ordnance isn’t just about making things go boom—it’s about outsmarting your enemies. From grenades every Legend can throw to powerful, ability-based explosives, knowing how to use them can shift the fight in your favor. In this Apex Legends weapon guide, we’ll break down what ordnance is, how each type works, and how to use them like a pro.
What is ordnance in Apex Legends?
In Apex Legends, ordnance refers to throwable explosives and explosive-based abilities used by Legends. These tools include grenades available to all players and special abilities unique to certain characters. Apex Legends Ordnance is used for:
- Damaging or eliminating enemies
- Disrupting enemy movements
- Creating area denial
- Forcing opponents out of cover
- Initiating or escaping combat
Understanding how each type works can give you a major edge in the Apex Games.
Universal Ordnance: Throwables available to all legends
These explosive items can be found throughout the map—inside Supply Bins, Loot Ticks, or as ground loot. Every Legend can pick up and use these.

All universal throwables can be destroyed by Wattson’s Interception Pylon. Time your throws or take it out first!
Legend-specific Ordnance: Unique explosive abilities
Some Legends wield their own signature explosives that can’t be picked up or shared. These abilities are powerful tools in any combat scenario.

4 advanced Apex Legends ordnance strategies you should know
Mastering Apex Legends ordnance goes beyond just throwing grenades at enemies. Here are a few advanced tactics to keep in mind:
- Combo with abilities: Use Arc Stars or Thermites just before your teammate deploys an ability like Horizon’s Black Hole to maximize damage.
- Zone control: Thermites and ultimates like The Motherlode can control choke points and force enemies into predictable paths.
- Revive disruption: Toss a frag grenade or Knuckle Cluster into a reviving squad to interrupt the process and secure the kill.
- Endgame zoning: In final circles, explosives are invaluable for flushing out squads hiding in cover or buildings.
Mastering ordnance for Apex dominance
From standard grenades to ultimate-level explosives, ordnance in Apex Legends is a key part of surviving and thriving in the Outlands. Whether you're cracking shields with an Arc Star or forcing a retreat with Bangalore’s barrage, knowing when and how to use ordnance can elevate your game to the next level.
So next time you're looting up, don’t overlook that grenade—you might just be holding the key to your next clutch win.

FAQs
Are grenades considered ordnance?
In Apex Legends, grenades fall under the broader category of ordnance. Ordnance includes all throwable explosives—so that means:
- Frag Grenades
- Arc Stars
- Thermite Grenades
So in short: All grenades are ordnance, but not all ordnance are grenades.
What does POI stand for in Apex?
Points of Interest, or POIs, are named locations on the map in Apex Legends. These areas typically have a high concentration of loot and Supply Bins, making them popular landing spots at the start of a match. Dropping into a POI can give you a strong early-game advantage—just be ready for a fight!
That’s all! Want to explore more Apex Legends guides? Check out these:
