Can You Make Up Weapons in D&D? A Comprehensive Guide

The short answer is yes, absolutely! You can absolutely make up weapons in D&D, but it’s not as simple as conjuring anything you imagine. The core of D&D 5th edition (and most other editions) is a framework, not a rigid set of rules that must always be followed. This framework includes options for homebrewing, and custom weaponry is a popular area for players and DMs to explore. The key is understanding the established mechanics, especially when it comes to damage dice, weapon properties, and proficiency. While you can’t simply invent a weapon that deals 3d12 damage without consequence, there are tools and guidelines to make compelling, balanced custom weapons.

Understanding the Limitations and Possibilities

The official rules don’t contain a formal “weapon creator,” but instead provide the tools for DMs and players to create items. The primary method of doing this, within digital tools like D&D Beyond, involves the creation of custom “magic” items. This might seem counterintuitive at first, but it’s the foundation for creating not only magical weapons but mundane ones as well. The trick is that once you’ve created an item using the D&D Beyond tools, you can describe it as non-magical in its description.

How to Create Custom Weapons in D&D Beyond

1. Use the “Create Homebrew Item” Tool: This is found within the D&D Beyond platform.
2. Select the “Magic Item” Type: Despite it being a mundane weapon, this is the tool used for all custom items.
3. Choose a Template: For weapons, you’ll select a weapon type as your base. For example, if you want a sword, you might choose a Longsword as a template.
4. Modify Properties: Here’s where you’ll make it unique. You can change the weapon type (from slashing to piercing, etc) add or remove properties like finesse, light, or heavy.
5. Describe It: Very importantly, describe your weapon. If it is a non-magical creation, include “this weapon is nonmagical” in the description box.
6. Damage Dice Cannot Be Directly Altered: A major limitation is you cannot typically change the weapon’s damage dice (1d8, 2d6, etc.). You’ll need to start with a base weapon that already has the damage dice you want to use. However, you can adjust the damage type.

Crafting a Balanced Homebrew Weapon

Balance is paramount when creating custom weapons. Here are some crucial points to consider:

• Existing Weapon Comparisons: Start with existing weapons as benchmarks. A new weapon that significantly outclasses a standard one will disrupt game balance.
• Damage Dice: Be mindful of the damage dice. Higher damage dice mean more potential damage. Do not go around changing them.
• Weapon Properties: These also impact combat effectiveness. A finesse weapon can be used by characters with high Dexterity, while a heavy weapon might deal more damage but comes with specific restrictions.
• Flavor vs. Mechanics: Your weapon can have a unique name and lore, but make sure the mechanics are in line with established D&D balance. You might have a custom blade with a unique name, but it might just be a slightly modified Longsword.
• Consult Your DM: If you’re a player, always check with your DM. They have the final say on what’s allowed in the campaign.

Beyond D&D Beyond: Tabletop Customization

Even without using D&D Beyond, there is room for creating custom weapons at your physical table. DMs have a lot of authority to change elements within a campaign and often create custom items and weapons. They can adjust damage types, add unique properties, or even invent new ones.

• House Rules: DMs can choose to alter rules to fit the campaign setting. This is a common practice with many groups.
• Flavor and Lore: The most common kind of customisation is in the flavor and lore of a weapon. DMs frequently invent new weapons with stories behind them.
• DM Fiat: As long as they keep their games balanced, a DM can use their “DM Fiat” (their ultimate authority on how the rules are followed in their game) to allow new weapons.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Custom Weapons in D&D

1. Can I change the damage dice of an existing weapon?

Generally, no. With standard homebrew tools, you cannot change the damage dice of a weapon. You must start with a weapon that already uses the dice you want and modify it from there. However, a DM can choose to ignore this rule with “DM Fiat.”

2. Can I make a gun in D&D?

Yes, but guns are not a standard part of core D&D rules. Many editions include optional rules for firearms, and you can create custom ones using the same methods as other custom weapons, with necessary flavour adjustments. DMs will often allow these in their games.

3. Can I make a custom attack action in D&D?

Yes, using the custom action tool within your character sheet. This lets you customize the damage and effects of your attacks, useful for incorporating special abilities or unique weapon actions. Note that this doesn’t create a weapon itself, but an action for a character to use.

4. Is there a crafting system in D&D for creating weapons?

Yes, although it’s not a real time activity during the game. Crafting takes place over in game work-weeks, following a formula for price divided by 50 (a minimum of one work week). Xanathar’s Guide to Everything has more specific rules on crafting, including materials requirements and skill checks, but it is not the standard core system.

5. Can a character use a weapon they are not proficient in?

Yes, but they don’t get to add their proficiency bonus to the attack roll when using a weapon they aren’t proficient in.

6. Can I sell custom weapons in D&D?

Yes, you can sell any treasure, including weapons and other equipment, provided you find a willing buyer in a town or settlement. This might be at a reduced cost depending on the DM and setting.

7. Can a DM sell custom D&D campaigns with custom weapons?

Yes. The “Dungeon Masters Guild” allows DMs to publish and sell their custom campaigns and content, including custom weapons.

8. What D&D classes are best suited for using firearms, should they be allowed?

Classes like the Gunslinger, Artificer, Rogue, Fighter, Ranger, and even Barbarian can effectively use firearms. The best choice often depends on the specific firearm and character build.

9. Can I create a custom race for my character that uses a special weapon?

Yes. Using the provided rules, you can build a custom race for use in D&D. This is separate from making a custom weapon, although the two ideas can definitely be paired together.

10. Can I switch weapons mid-combat?

Yes. Swapping weapons requires an item interaction which usually takes up your “interaction” action. A player can choose to drop their weapon without it costing an action, then use their item interaction to equip another.

11. How do I add a custom weapon to my D&D Beyond character sheet?

After creating your custom weapon as a “magic item”, go to the character sheet, select the “inventory” tab, and click “Manage inventory”. Search for your item and add it.

12. Can I reroll damage dice when using a special weapon?

Certain weapon abilities can allow for rerolls. For instance, when using a melee weapon with two hands, if you roll a 1 or 2, you may reroll and must use the new number. Whether a custom weapon will have this kind of ability will depend on how you build it.

13. Is there a level 0 in D&D, and can you use a custom weapon at that level?

No. There are no official rules for Level 0 characters, it is not a part of official rules. Custom weapons can be used at any level, assuming the DM allows them.

14. Are there special rules for surprise in D&D combat?

Yes. If a character is surprised, they cannot move or take an action on their first turn, and cannot use a reaction until that turn ends. A member of a group can be surprised even if their allies aren’t.

15. Can any class in D&D fly and use a custom weapon in the air?

Clerics (Tempest and Twilight), Druids, and specific subclasses of others can fly. Whether they can use your custom weapon in the air depends on the rules of the weapon.

Conclusion

Creating custom weapons in D&D is not only possible, but encouraged. It adds depth, creativity, and personal flair to the game. While there are limitations, especially concerning damage dice, using the tools available and collaborating with your DM can lead to an enriching experience for all players. Remember to focus on balance, flavor, and, most importantly, fun! Embrace the creativity within D&D, and you’ll find that the possibilities are as vast as your imagination.