Do Hand Axes Count as Ranged Weapons? A Comprehensive Guide
The question of whether a hand axe qualifies as a ranged weapon in the context of tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons often sparks debate. The short, definitive answer is: No, hand axes are not primarily considered ranged weapons. They are fundamentally melee weapons with the added capability of being used for ranged attacks via their thrown property. This distinction is crucial for understanding how various game mechanics and abilities interact with hand axes.
Understanding the Core Concepts
To delve deeper into this topic, it’s essential to understand the core concepts at play.
Melee Weapons vs. Ranged Weapons
In essence, a melee weapon is designed for close-quarters combat, striking enemies within your reach – typically within 5 feet. A ranged weapon, on the other hand, allows you to attack targets at a distance. This fundamental difference dictates how you use each type of weapon in combat scenarios and what abilities can be paired with them.
The Thrown Property
Some melee weapons, like the hand axe, spear, javelin, and trident, possess the thrown property. This property allows you to make a ranged attack by hurling the weapon at a target, but it does not transform the weapon itself into a ranged weapon. It’s still a melee weapon at its core; you’re just utilizing a melee weapon for a ranged attack.
Range in Game Mechanics
A crucial element that differentiates a true ranged weapon from a thrown melee weapon is the presence of range listed in parentheses. The format is usually (normal range / long range). For example, a longbow may have a range of (150/600), where 150 feet is its normal range, and 600 feet its long range.
Why Hand Axes Are Not Primarily Ranged Weapons
The key takeaway here is that just because you can throw a hand axe does not make it a ranged weapon. The primary function of a hand axe remains that of a melee weapon. They are designed for cutting, chopping, and striking at close range. Their thrown capability is simply an added versatility, which allows a limited, ranged attack option.
The Impact on Game Mechanics
This distinction significantly impacts game mechanics. Abilities, feats, and spells that specifically enhance ranged weapons often do not apply to melee weapons being used for thrown attacks. For example, the Sharpshooter feat in D&D, which boosts damage and accuracy with ranged weapons, won’t benefit a hand axe used as a throwing weapon. It only works with true ranged weapons.
Ammunition and True Ranged Weapons
Another defining factor of a true ranged weapon is its reliance on ammunition to function. Bows, crossbows, and firearms all require projectiles like arrows, bolts, or bullets. Melee weapons with the thrown property are not dependent on ammunition in this way. You’re throwing the weapon itself, not a separate projectile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the topic of hand axes and ranged weapons:
1. Are all thrown weapons ranged weapons?
No. Weapons with the thrown property are melee weapons that can make ranged attacks. This is a crucial distinction. Throwing a hand axe doesn’t convert it into a ranged weapon itself.
2. Can I use the Sharpshooter feat with a hand axe?
No, the Sharpshooter feat specifically targets ranged weapons and does not apply to melee weapons like hand axes, even when they are used for ranged attacks.
3. Does Archery fighting style benefit a thrown hand axe?
No, the Archery fighting style typically applies to ranged weapons, not melee weapons with the thrown property.
4. What counts as a ranged weapon in D&D?
Generally, ranged weapons are bows, repeaters, guns, and launchers which require ammunition. A weapon that can be used to make a ranged attack has a range in parentheses after the ammunition or thrown property.
5. Do improvised weapons count as ranged weapons?
Improvised weapons are not inherently classified as either ranged or melee weapons, but they can be used to make both ranged attacks and melee attacks, and they do receive damage modifiers.
6. What is the strongest ranged weapon in D&D?
The Longbow often boasts the highest base damage and range among bows, making it a strong ranged weapon.
7. Is an axe considered a weapon?
Yes, an axe is considered a weapon, and it is primarily a melee weapon. It is also one of the oldest weapons humanity has used.
8. What’s the difference between melee and ranged attacks?
A melee attack targets opponents within 5 feet, whereas a ranged attack targets opponents at a distance.
9. Are throwing knives ranged weapons?
Yes, throwing knives are typically considered consumable ranged weapons in many games.
10. Is a hand axe a sharp weapon?
Yes, hand axes feature sharp blades that make them effective weapons.
11. Can you dual wield hand axes in D&D?
Yes, you can dual wield hand axes, as they are light melee weapons. There are specific rules regarding making off-hand attacks in dual wielding combat.
12. Is it illegal to carry an axe in public?
This is dependent on local laws, but in many places it is illegal to carry a bladed object in public without a reasonable excuse.
13. Is a throwing axe a projectile?
Yes, a thrown axe is considered a projectile while it is in motion. This is in physics terms, but not always in game mechanics terms.
14. Are hatchets and hand axes the same?
While used interchangeably by many people, hatchets and hand axes are technically different tools, with varying sizes and uses.
15. Can a Ranger use a longsword?
Yes, Rangers can use longswords and many other weapon types. The specific weapon is not as important as the proficiency the Ranger has gained.
Conclusion
While the ability to throw a hand axe might blur the lines, it’s crucial to remember that it remains fundamentally a melee weapon with the additional capability to make ranged attacks via its thrown property. Understanding this distinction is essential to correctly utilizing game mechanics, abilities, and feats. By adhering to these principles, players and game masters alike can accurately navigate the intricate combat systems that underpin tabletop role-playing games.