Can you throw any weapon in 5e?
The answer is not a straightforward yes or no. While the rules for throwing weapons in 5th Edition Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) are relatively flexible, there are certain exceptions and limitations. In this article, we’ll dive into the specifics of what weapons can be thrown and what factors to consider.
What weapons can be thrown in 5e?
Thrown Property: Not all weapons are designed for throwing. Thrown weapons are explicitly marked with the "Thrown" property, which means they can be used as a ranged attack. Common examples of thrown weapons include daggers, clubs, shortspears, spears, darts, javelins, throwing axes, light hammers, tridents, and shuriken.
Improvised Throwing: If a weapon doesn’t have the "Thrown" property, you can still throw it, but with a few caveats. When using an improvised thrown weapon, the attack roll and damage are affected by your Strength modifier (PHB 148). This applies to melee weapons like a sword or an axe that are not specifically designed for throwing.
Polearms: Polearms like halberds, spears, and lances are often too long and heavy for comfortable throwing. While they can be thrown, they may not be as effective as shorter, lighter weapons. The exception is when using a specific magic weapon or feat that allows for throwing polearms.
Handaxes and Similar: Handaxes are a special case. Some magic weapons or feats might allow you to throw handaxes as a bonus action, summoning them to your hand afterward. In this scenario, you can technically throw the handaxe as a ranged attack.
What are the limitations for throwing weapons?
• Range: Thrown weapons have a normal range of 20 feet and a long range of 60 feet, unless stated otherwise (PHB 148).
• Dropping the Weapon: When you drop a thrown weapon or it disintegrates, it ceases to exist (PHB 147).
• Teleportation: Some magic weapons or feats might allow you to teleport the thrown weapon back to your hand as a bonus action (PHB 147).
Key Takeaways
- Thrown weapons are marked with the "Thrown" property.
- Improvised throwing can be done with melee weapons, but use your Strength modifier for attack roll and damage.
- Polearms can be thrown, but effectiveness may vary.
- Handaxes and similar can be thrown as a bonus action with magic weapons or feats.
- Thrown weapons have range limitations and can be dropped or disintegrate.
- Some magic weapons or feats might allow for teleporting the thrown weapon back to your hand.
In summary, while there are exceptions and limitations, you can throw a wide range of weapons in 5th Edition D&D, including those with the "Thrown" property and certain improvised thrown weapons. By understanding the rules and nuances, you can unleash the full potential of your weapon-throwing abilities and add depth to your characters’ arsenal.