What weapons do slashing damage in D&D 5e?
In Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition, a variety of weapons are designed to deal slashing damage, characterized by their sharp edges and cutting capabilities. These weapons range from light, agile blades to heavy, two-handed implements, suitable for different combat styles and character builds.
Slashing Damage Weapons in D&D 5e
Slashing damage is one of the three primary types of physical damage (alongside piercing and bludgeoning). Weapons that deal slashing damage often include axes, swords, and other tools designed for cutting. Below is a comprehensive list of standard D&D 5e weapons that deal slashing damage, categorized by their proficiency type:
Simple Melee Weapons
Simple weapons are generally easier to use and often associated with commoners or those with basic weapon training.
- Handaxe: A versatile tool that can be thrown or wielded in melee.
- Sickle: A light, curved blade often used for harvesting, but also effective in combat.
| Weapon | Cost | Damage | Properties |
|---|---|---|---|
| Handaxe | 2 gp | 1d6 slashing | Light, Thrown (range 20/60) |
| Sickle | 1 gp | 1d4 slashing | Light |
Martial Melee Weapons
Martial weapons require more specialized training to use effectively and often offer greater damage potential or unique properties.
- Battleaxe: A powerful one-handed axe, capable of being wielded with two hands for more force.
- Glaive: A long polearm with a blade at the end, offering extended reach.
- Greataxe: A massive two-handed axe, renowned for its potential to deal immense damage.
- Greatsword: A formidable two-handed sword, known for its wide cutting arcs and high damage output.
- Halberd: A versatile polearm featuring an axe-like blade and a spike, providing both reach and cutting power.
- Longsword: A classic sword that can be used effectively with one hand, or two hands for more damage.
- Scimitar: A light, curved blade, often favored for its finesse and agility.
- Whip: A unique weapon with long reach, allowing attacks from a distance while maintaining finesse.
| Weapon | Cost | Damage | Properties |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battleaxe | 10 gp | 1d8 slashing | Versatile (1d10) |
| Glaive | 20 gp | 1d10 slashing | Heavy, Reach, Two-Handed |
| Greataxe | 30 gp | 1d12 slashing | Heavy, Two-Handed |
| Greatsword | 50 gp | 2d6 slashing | Heavy, Two-Handed |
| Halberd | 20 gp | 1d10 slashing | Heavy, Reach, Two-Handed |
| Longsword | 15 gp | 1d8 slashing | Versatile (1d10) |
| Scimitar | 25 gp | 1d6 slashing | Finesse, Light |
| Whip | 2 gp | 1d4 slashing | Finesse, Reach |
It is important to note that while some feats or specific magic items might alter a weapon's damage type, the list above reflects the default damage type for these weapons as presented in the core D&D 5th Edition rules.
