How many extra attacks can you have?

How Many Extra Attacks Can You Have?

In the thrilling world of Dungeons & Dragons, the Extra Attack feature is a much-coveted ability among fighters and other martial classes. The Extra Attack feature allows a character to perform an additional attack action on their turn, adding an extra layer of complexity to the game’s combat mechanics. But the million-dollar question remains: how many extra attacks can you have?

Beginning with the Basics

In D&D 5th edition, the Extra Attack feature is a class feature introduced in the Player’s Handbook. Starting at 5th level, fighters (and other martial classes) gain the ability to attack twice when using the Attack action on their turn. Later, at 11th level, fighters can attack three times, and at 20th level, they can attack four times. This means that fighters and other martial classes can have up to four** extra attacks in total.

Martial Classes and Additional Attacks

While fighters and other martial classes are the primary users of the Extra Attack feature, other classes, such as rogues and paladins, can also gain additional attacks. Rogue’s Sneak Attack feature and Paladin’s Divine Smite both grant additional attacks, but these additional attacks are not necessarily tied to the Extra Attack feature.

Barring a Few Exceptions

There are, however, a few exceptions to this rule. Some classes, such as Bards and Clerics, have abilities that can grant additional attacks, but these abilities do not follow the same pattern as the Extra Attack feature. These additional attacks must be specifically listed in the class’s features and abilities. Additionally, some subclasses, such as Fighter’s Battle Master and Rogue’s Arcane Trickster, may have abilities that allow for additional attacks, but these must also be explicitly listed.

Action Surge and Bonus Actions

Another consideration is the Action Surge ability, which allows a character to take an extra action on their turn. While Action Surge can be used to take an additional Attack action, it does not necessarily grant another attack. Bonus actions, on the other hand, allow a character to take an additional action on their turn, but these actions are not tied to the Extra Attack feature.

Summarizing the Rules

• Martial classes, such as fighters, have up to four extra attacks via the Extra Attack feature.
• Other classes can gain additional attacks through specific abilities and features, such as Rogue’s Sneak Attack or Paladin’s Divine Smite.
• Some exceptions include classes with specific abilities, such as Bards and Clerics, and some subclasses, such as Fighter’s Battle Master and Rogue’s Arcane Trickster.
• Action Surge allows a character to take an additional action on their turn, but this action is not necessarily an attack.
• Bonus actions allow a character to take an additional action on their turn, but these actions are not tied to the Extra Attack feature.

In conclusion, the answer to the question of how many extra attacks can you have depends on the class and abilities of your character. Martial classes can have up to four extra attacks, while other classes may have additional attacks via specific abilities and features. Keep in mind the exceptions and caveats listed above to get the most out of your character’s abilities on the battlefield.

Table: Extra Attack Abilities by Class

Remember to Always Check the Monster Manual and Player’s Handbook

For the most up-to-date and accurate information on Extra Attack abilities, consult the Monster Manual and Player’s Handbook.