What is the Monk Weapon Rule?
The monk weapon rule states that monks are expected to use monk weapons, which are defined as short swords and simple weapons that don’t have heavy or two-handed properties, and they can use their bare hands from level 10 onwards unless they’ve found a magic weapon. The monk weapon rule is an essential aspect of the monk class in Dungeons and Dragons, shaping the way monks engage in combat and utilize their unique abilities to take down their enemies.
Understanding the Monk Weapon Rule
To delve deeper into the monk weapon rule, let’s explore some frequently asked questions that provide valuable insights into the monk class and their weapons.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Qualifies as a Monk Weapon?
Monk weapons are short swords and simple melee weapons that don’t have two-handed or heavy properties, making them ideal for monks to wield in combat.
2. Can a Monk Use Heavy Weapons?
At 17th level, monks learn how to use heavy martial weapons to cover their bodies before a counterattack, gaining a bonus to AC equal to their proficiency bonus until their next turn.
3. Do Fists Count as Monk Weapons?
No, a monk’s fists are not considered weapons, but rather an unarmed strike, such as a punch, kick, or head-butt.
4. Do Spears Count as Monk Weapons?
Yes, spears count as monk weapons, and their versatile property allows monks to wield them two-handed for increased damage.
5. Does a Longsword Count as a Monk Weapon?
Only elf monks can use longswords, while dwarf monks can use heavy picks and battleaxes.
6. Can a Monk Carry a Shield?
Yes, anyone can raise a shield, and monks do not take any penalty for using shields, unlike armor.
7. What is the Strongest Type of Monk?
The strongest type of monk is subjective, but according to some rankings, the top monk subclasses are Open Hand, Mercy, Kensei, Shadow, Astral Self, Long Death, Drunken Master, and Ascendant Dragon.
8. Can You Dual Wield as a Monk?
Yes, monks can dual wield at level 10 if they have chosen the Brewmaster or Windwalker specialization.
9. Are Throwing Daggers Still Monk Weapons?
Yes, throwing daggers are simple melee weapons and count as monk weapons.
10. Can You Use a Quarterstaff as a Monk?
Yes, a quarterstaff is a monk flurry weapon, allowing monks to make two attacks with it.
11. Can You Flurry of Blows with a Monk Weapon?
Yes, monks can use Flurry of Blows with melee monk weapons if they have the Monastic Weaponry class feat.
12. Can a Firearm be a Monk Weapon?
No, monks cannot use two-handed weapons, and most firearms are not suitable for monks.
13. Can a Whip be a Monk Weapon?
Yes, a whip can be a monk weapon, providing monks with reach and versatility in combat.
14. Can a Bow be a Monk Weapon?
Yes, bows can be monk weapons, and monks are proficient in all simple weapons, including bows.
15. What are the Four Types of Monks?
The four types of monks are coenobites, anchorites/hermits, sarabaites, and gyrovagues, each with their unique characteristics and traditions.