Weapons

A weapon is an implement of violence.

Weapons fall into two categories based on their method of inflicting wounds.

• A melee weapon is one that relies on someone or something swinging it and inflicting damage on someone nearby. Stabbing someone with a sword is an example of using a melee weapon.
• A ranged weapon is one that relies on throwing a projectile at a distance into your target to inflict damage. Shooting someone with a bow is an example of using a ranged weapon.

How many hands are required to properly wield the weapon in combat. Hands used to wield a weapon, unless otherwise noted, can’t be used to hold other items.

You can wield a one-handed or light weapon in two hands. It doesn’t have any inherent benefit (like extra damage) but it technically counts as a “two-handed weapon” while you’re doing that. For example: if you were two-handing a short spear, you could benefit from the fighter’s “Haft Strike” ability.

Weapons are broadly grouped together for the purpose of class features and some effects. Each weapon falls into 1 (or more) group of weapons.

• Ammunition: This is ammunition used by a range weapon.
• Axe: These are chopping weapons with their weight towards the end of their length and a distinct bladed “head”.
• Blade: These are edged weapons that are able to cut, pierce, or chop with the majority of their length. This includes swords, knives, sickles, etc.
• Bow: These are ranged weapons that shoot arrows with pressure applied by a string. This group includes bows and crossbows.
• Club: These are hand held bludgeoning weapons.
• Dart: These are largely small, thrown, projectiles.
• Firearm: These are ranged weapons that use explosive force to fire a bullet or other projectile.
• Improvised: These are weapons not typically suitable for use as a weapon but have been employed in such a way that it causes damage (i.e a chair swung at someone).
• Other: Not every weapon falls into a predefined category. These are normally strange weapons. “Other” is not a true group of weapons and cannot be used for things that rely on a weapon group. (For example: If you had an ability that let you gain a bonus if you were wielding a weapon from a certain group, a weapon with “other” would grant no bonus.)
• Polearm: These are weapons whose striking point or surface is at the end of a long hafts, designed to strike enemies at a distance.
• Shield: These are shields and their entry as a weapon group covers the offensive use of shields (e.g. shield bashing).
• Stave: These are weapons designed to allow spellcasters to release small bursts of magical energy to attack their foes without spending mana.
• Whip: These are weapons that are largely flexible or otherwise non-rigid.