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I've noticed that, unlike the World Eaters rule which specifically says it must be represented on the model, Blackshield Marauders don't have such a caveat for taking chainaxes (possibly because it's base gear option for all Marauders, whereas World Eaters upgrade is specific for that legion?).

Does this mean that, should I want to equip Marauders with shotguns (or bolters), I could model them with the shotgun or bolter in both hands and have a combat blade on the belt (for aesthetics), but have them be bolt pistol/chainaxe/shotgun on their profile? Assuming I equipped all Marauders (without other melee weapons like power weapons etc., which would be modelled) with chainaxes so the enemy wouldn't be misled, or does the World Eaters previous rule set a precedent?

WYSIWYG.

That is the precedent, always.

Best plan is to vary it through the unit, that way the unit is moddelled properly

Hmm ok, time to buy some FW Chain Axes (the ones that don't come with hands already on) to see how they look holstered on the waist, given the Phobos Chainaxe set doesn't look too great with the plastic Mk4 arms designed for bolters etc.
Cheers

Yeah man, it would be a little bogus if you didn't need to model other weapons.

"Oh yeah, my marines twiddling their thumbs? They're all holding missile launchers."

Especially when it's something as big and noticeable as a chain axe.

I feel like the only time you can get away with this is with robes or holstered pistols / swords (they can be anything!). Also no one really seems to care about melta bombs or artificer armor, which, THANK GOD.

If it makes you feel any better, I've modeled marines with 'holstered' axes and I think they look fine.