Weapon Properties

Weapon Properties

In the realm of fantasy and adventure, weapons are not just tools of combat but extensions of the characters wielding them. Each weapon in the game is unique, not only in its design but also in its handling and functionality. This uniqueness is encapsulated in what we call “Weapon Properties.” These properties are special features that define how a weapon behaves in the hands of a character.

Weapon Properties go beyond mere damage statistics. They are the fine details that bring each weapon to life in the game world. Whether it’s the precise and elegant strikes you can perform with a Finesse weapon, the extended reach of a polearm, or the unique mechanics of a weapon with the Loading property, these characteristics allow for a rich variety of combat strategies and personalization.

Each property imbues a weapon with distinct advantages, limitations, and tactical nuances, encouraging players to choose weapons that best fit their character’s style, role, and the challenges they expect to face. For instance, a Thrown weapon allows for ranged attacks with a normally melee weapon, while a Heavy weapon brings greater power at the cost of ease of use for smaller characters.

Understanding these properties is key to mastering combat and fully realizing your character’s potential in battle. As you peruse the list of properties such as Ammunition, Monk, Special, Two-Handed, and others, consider how they align with your character’s skills and the adventures that await them. Choose wisely, for the right weapon can be a loyal companion through countless quests and epic battles.

Ammunition

Ammunition

You can use a weapon that has the ammunition property to make a ranged attack only if you have ammunition to fire from the weapon. Each... read on
Finesse

Finesse

When making an attack with a finesse weapon, you use your choice of your Strength or Dexterity modifier for the attack and damage rolls. You must... read on
Heavy

Heavy

Small creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls with heavy weapons. A heavy weapon's size and bulk make it too large for a Small creature to use... read on
Light

Light

A light weapon is small and easy to handle, making it ideal for use when fighting with two weapons.
Loading

Loading

Because of the time required to load this weapon, you can fire only one piece of ammunition from it when you use an action, bonus action,... read on
Monk

Monk

Monks gain several benefits while unarmed or wielding only monk weapons while they aren't wearing armor or wielding shields.
Reach

Reach

This weapon adds 5 feet to your reach when you attack with it, as well as when determining your reach for opportunity attacks with it.
Special

Special

A weapon with the special property has unusual rules governing its use, explained in the weapon's description (see "Special Weapons" under Equipment > Weapons).
Thrown

Thrown

If a weapon has the thrown property, you can throw the weapon to make a ranged attack. If the weapon is a melee weapon, you use... read on
Two handed

Two-Handed

This weapon requires two hands when you attack with it.
Versatile

Versatile

This weapon can be used with one or two hands. A damage value in parentheses appears with the property—the damage when the weapon is used with... read on

Credits: Game Squires