Can You Wield a Greatsword and a Shield in D&D?
The straightforward answer to the question, “Can you use a greatsword and a shield in D&D?” is generally no, not simultaneously in the way you might envision. In Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition (5e), the mechanics of combat and equipment prohibit the effective use of both a two-handed weapon like a greatsword and a shield at the same time for attacking purposes. While you can possess both a greatsword and a shield, you can’t typically use them together in the heat of battle. Let’s delve deeper into why this is the case and explore the related nuances.
The Fundamentals of Weapon and Shield Usage in 5e
Understanding Hand Requirements
The core reason for the incompatibility lies in the action economy and the hand requirements for weapons and shields. A greatsword is a two-handed weapon, meaning it requires the use of both hands to wield effectively for attack rolls. On the other hand, a shield requires one hand to hold and utilize its defensive properties. Since you only have two hands, you cannot simultaneously wield a two-handed weapon and a shield.
Combat Actions and Bonus Actions
During your turn in combat, you typically have one action, one bonus action, and movement. Using a two-handed weapon like a greatsword necessitates that your action be spent making an attack with it. Similarly, having a shield requires that you actively wield it to benefit from its defensive bonuses (like an increase to your AC), meaning you would use a hand for that. This is where the conflict arises – you can’t use both hands for the greatsword and also have one dedicated to the shield during the same action.
The Illusion of Flexibility
While there might be a temptation to think you could simply “hold” the greatsword in one hand while using the shield, this is not a valid interpretation of the rules for attack purposes. Two-handed weapons are not designed to be used with one hand, and thus, would not be wieldable by one hand in order to accommodate a shield at the same time.
Exploring Related Concepts
Versatile Weapons and Shields
Versatile weapons such as the longsword, battleaxe, or warhammer do offer some flexibility. When wielding a versatile weapon, a character can choose to attack with it using one hand or two hands. While a versatile weapon can be used with one hand and allow a shield to be equipped on your other arm, this is different from using a two-handed weapon alongside a shield. Importantly, if you are using a versatile weapon with two hands, you cannot use a shield with it.
The Dual Wielder Feat
The Dual Wielder feat allows for wielding two weapons that are not considered light, such as two longswords, and the ability to draw or stow two weapons when you normally draw one. However, even with this feat, dual-wielding two-handed weapons like greatswords is not possible. The Dual Wielder feat has specific limitations in this regard.
Shields as Off-Hand Weapons
Though a shield is not classified as a weapon, the Shield Master feat allows you to use your shield to shove enemies as a bonus action. This does not, however, alter the rules about holding it alongside a two-handed weapon.
Historical vs. Game Mechanics
It’s worth noting that D&D often simplifies the intricacies of historical combat for gameplay purposes. In reality, there might be ways to carry a shield and a larger sword, but in the context of D&D 5e, such nuanced techniques are not mechanically reflected. The game instead focuses on the basic concepts of action and hand economy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 related questions and answers to provide additional clarity:
1. Can I hold a greatsword in one hand and use a shield?
No, not if you intend to make an attack with the greatsword. While you can certainly hold it, you won’t be able to effectively use it for combat in that manner. A greatsword requires two hands to be used for attacks.
2. What if I just want to carry both a greatsword and a shield?
You are free to carry both items. You just can’t effectively utilize them both at the same time for combat. Outside of combat you would not be restricted on this, such as while traveling or making camp.
3. Can I use a shield and a longsword at the same time?
Yes, you can. A longsword is a versatile weapon, meaning it can be used with one hand, allowing you to wield a shield in your other hand.
4. Does the Dual Wielder feat allow me to dual-wield greatswords?
No, the Dual Wielder feat only allows you to dual-wield non-light one-handed weapons. It does not enable dual-wielding of two-handed weapons.
5. Is it possible to combine weapons in D&D?
While certain materials from the Wretched Hives game system mention combining weapons, this mechanic is not present in standard D&D 5e.
6. Can I switch between a greatsword and a shield during combat?
Yes, you can. You can drop a weapon or stow it, and you can equip a weapon or a shield. However, the act of switching will generally require you to use part of your action or bonus action, meaning it is possible, but not usually practical to switch between them within the same round.
7. What are some good weapons to use with a shield?
One-handed weapons like swords, spears, maces, axes, and warhammers are all excellent choices to use with a shield, and any weapon described as “light” could also be used.
8. Can I use a rapier and a shield together?
Yes, you can. A rapier is a one-handed weapon, allowing you to use a shield in your other hand.
9. What if I am not proficient with shields?
You can still wear a shield and get a small AC bonus, but you won’t receive the full benefits and will suffer penalties.
10. Is a shield considered a weapon?
No, a shield is not considered a weapon by default, but it can be used to shove with the Shield Master feat.
11. Can you throw a shield as a weapon?
Without specific feats or abilities, you cannot throw a shield as a weapon effectively in D&D 5e.
12. Can a Paladin wield a greatsword?
Yes, Paladins are proficient with martial weapons, which includes greatswords. This does not mean that they can use a shield in addition to a greatsword, however.
13. Can I use a katana and a shield in D&D?
While some DMs might allow it, katanas are not standard in D&D 5e, but if they are treated like longswords in your campaign, they can be used with one hand and therefore alongside a shield.
14. What is sword and board in D&D?
“Sword and board” is a term that refers to using a one-handed sword and a shield together. This is a common fighting style for characters who value offense and defense.
15. Are there any situations in D&D where I could use a greatsword and a shield at the same time?
While not a standard mechanic, some homebrew rules or specific magic items might allow for such a combination in rare scenarios, but generally it is not within the standard rules.
Conclusion
While the idea of wielding both a greatsword and a shield might seem appealing, the rules of D&D 5e make it impossible to effectively use both simultaneously for attacking and blocking within standard combat mechanics. You must choose either the powerful two-handed strike of the greatsword or the defensive capabilities of the shield, but not both at once. Understanding these rules is crucial for optimal character building and tactical play within the game. Embrace the tactical choices these rules impose, and you’ll find plenty of ways to excel as a martial character in D&D!