i may be able to help

[arronarmy]

hi im a new user and have been playing warhammer 40k for 5 years now.
im wondering about the programs you guys use to make the mods for half life could you give me a list of some good ones many thanks
  -arronarmy-

[ChromeAngel]

We use the suite of utilities that make up the Source SDK (you can get this for free through steam if you have half-life 2).

More useful utiltites are listed at the Source SDK wiki.

Using the utilities above and just about any paint program you can make meterials/textures.

A variety of programs can be used to make models for modding, our team members use a variety including :
Milkshape 3D
3D Studio Max
and the XSI Mod Tool

[arronarmy]

im new to modding so where can i get some good starting info thnks for the programs there are great. -arronarmy-

[ChromeAngel]

Valve's Source wiki is probably the best place to start, most of the tools are documented there.  If you want to discuss specifics drop by our IRC channel (#rspecies2 on the quakenet network) and i'll see what I can do to get you started.

[arronarmy]

sorry to be a pain but i carnt find it can i have a link plz sory -arronarmy-

[ChromeAngel]

http://developer.valvesoftware.com/wiki/Main_Page

[migb]

Just a quick comment:
XSI mod tool - free  

The best free animation program I've ever used. http://www.softimage.com/products/Mod/v4/
And Valve recommends it.