Is putting away a weapon a free action?

Is Putting Away a Weapon a Free Action?

When it comes to equipment interactions in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition (D&D 5e), there are several different scenarios to consider. Drawing a weapon, for instance, can be a complex and deliberate action that requires a more detailed explanation. However, when it comes to sheathing or putting away a weapon, the answer to whether it is a free action can be a bit less clear-cut.

Standard Verdict: No Free Action

According to the standard rules, drawing and putting away a weapon (including unsheathing) typically requires a movement action. This applies not only to drawing but also to sheathing the weapon. This means that a character cannot simply dismiss the weapon as a minor or free action.

Supporting Evidence

To make matters more complex, several online resources and FAQs echo the same sentiment. These resources include:

• Vintage is The New Old‘s FAQ on D&D 5e, stating: "Drawing a weapon or putting it away also takes a move action" (https://www.vintageisthenewold.com/faq/go-to-answer/2949415)
• The Internet‘s "D&D 5E FAQ" (https://www.vintageisthenewold.com/faq/go-to-answer/131624), concluding that "drawing or sheathing a weapon is usually an action."

When an Action is Required

What is the reasoning behind these standard rules? When we take a closer look, there are a few underlying assumptions to consider:

• Practicality: Pulling out a weapon may involve a certain level of expertise, training, and fine motor control. By treating it as an action, the game acknowledges these subtleties.
• Safety: Drawing or unsheathing a weapon also carries risks, and giving it an action implies those risks are being consciously and deliberately taken.
• Game Balance: For balance and fairness, most modern tabletop RPGs including D&D 5e standardize actions and limitations.

Exceptions and Consequences

While drawing a weapon typically requires an action, there are a few possible exceptions:

• If your character has the "Dual Wielder" feat, you can consider this as a free object interaction, allowing you to "draw" two weapons quickly (https://www.dndbeyond.com/sheets/feats#feats:Dual%20Wielder).

In Conclusion
Putting away a weapon typically requires a movement action, not a free or minor action. Understand that this decision is deeply rooted in the game mechanics’ design, balancing mechanics and practicality.

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