When Can Warriors Use 2-Handed Weapons? A Comprehensive Guide
The burning question for any aspiring warrior, or indeed any returning veteran to the world of Azeroth, is: when can I wield that glorious two-handed weapon and crush my enemies? The answer, as with most things in the world of Warcraft, is nuanced and depends heavily on the version of the game, your chosen specialization, and your character’s level. Let’s dive into the specifics.
The short answer is this: Warriors can use 2-handed weapons from level 1, assuming they have the required weapon proficiency (e.g., swords, axes, maces, polearms). However, using a 2-handed weapon effectively and for specific builds involves specialization which happens later in the game. The ability to dual-wield two-handed weapons is a separate ability obtained at higher levels.
Warrior Specializations and 2-Handed Weapons
The way a Warrior utilizes a 2-handed weapon is largely determined by their chosen specialization. Let’s break down the common specializations and how they relate to two-handed weaponry:
Arms Warriors
The Arms specialization is most commonly associated with two-handed weapon mastery. This specialization enhances a Warrior’s ability to deal devastating blows with large, slow weapons. This is further solidified by the Two-Handed Weapon Specialization, a passive bonus that comes automatically with the Arms tree. This specialization focuses on powerful, slow attacks designed to inflict maximum damage per hit.
Fury Warriors
While often associated with dual-wielding, Fury Warriors can and do utilize 2-handed weapons. A key ability here is Titan’s Grip. This talent, learned at level 10, allows a Fury Warrior to dual-wield two-handed weapons, effectively turning them into a whirlwind of destruction. It’s essential to note that this is for Fury builds and is not the typical approach for 2-handers in other specializations. Before level 10, Fury warriors can use 2-handers, but without Titan’s Grip they can’t dual-wield them.
Protection Warriors
Protection Warriors are primarily focused on defense and tanking. While they can technically wield a two-handed weapon, it is not their ideal setup. They primarily use a one-handed weapon paired with a shield. A 2-handed weapon would not enhance their main role as a tank.
Leveling with 2-Handed Weapons
The best time for a Warrior to focus on using 2-handed weapons is while leveling, or in specific DPS roles. As you level, look for slower 2-handed weapons with high DPS. A slower weapon will generally result in harder-hitting abilities. Slower weapons enhance the damage output of a Warrior’s abilities and the majority of their attacks.
End-Game 2-Handed Weapon Use
For end-game content, the role of 2-handed weapons for warriors changes. Arms Warriors will typically focus on slow 2-handed weapons with a build centered around the powerful Slam ability. Fury Warriors, however, often transition to dual-wielding one-handed weapons for a different approach to DPS.
Dual-Wielding Two-Handed Weapons
The ability to dual-wield two-handed weapons is unique to Fury Warriors with the Titan’s Grip talent at level 10. Before this, they are restricted to only dual-wielding one-handed weapons. You can, of course, use a 2-handed weapon as a warrior at any level (provided you have the weapon skill and are not dual-wielding one-handers), but the ability to use two 2-handed weapons is a specific Fury Warrior specialization mechanic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding warriors and their use of 2-handed weapons:
- Can Warriors use 2-handed maces?
Yes. Warriors can learn how to use 2-handed maces from a Weapon Master. Paladins start with the ability to use them. - Can Warriors use 1-handed maces?
Yes. Warriors start with the ability to use one-handed maces, along with Paladins, Priests, and Shaman. - What is the best weapon type for Warriors?
This varies based on build and race. Swords are dominant for Human Warriors due to the Sword Specialization racial and talent bonuses. Slow 2-handed weapons are generally good for leveling. 1-Handed weapons are the best DPS for Dual-Wield Fury builds in the late game. - What level can Warriors dual-wield?
Warriors can dual-wield one-handed weapons from level 20. To dual-wield two-handed weapons, they need the Titan’s Grip talent as a Fury Warrior at level 10. - Can Warriors dual-wield polearms?
No. Warriors cannot dual-wield polearms. - Can Warriors use fist weapons?
Yes. Warriors can use fist weapons, especially if dual-wielding. - Where can I learn 2-handed mace skill?
The Two-Handed Mace skill is taught by Buliwyf Stonehand in Ironforge. - Where can I train my 2-handed axes skill?
You can train your 2-handed Axe skill with Buliwyf, the weapon master in Ironforge. - Is a battle axe two-handed?
Battle axes come in both one-handed and two-handed variants. The size and design are important factors in its use. - Can Warriors use staves?
Yes. Warriors can learn to use staves from a Weapon Master, although other classes often utilize them more. - What is the best race for a two-handed Warrior?
Orcs and Nords are considered excellent choices for two-handed weapon builds, but any race can fulfill the role. - Do slow or fast weapons enhance Warrior DPS?
As you level, slow 2-handed weapons with high DPS are optimal. At end-game, there are builds that use slow two-handers and others that use fast 1-handers. - When can Warriors dual-wield in Shadowlands?
Fury Warriors and other classes like Frost Death Knights and Enhancement Shamans can dual-wield from level 10 when specializations unlock. - Can Death Knights use 2-Handed Maces?
Yes. Death Knights can use both one-handed and two-handed axes, maces, and swords. - Are two weapons better than one?
Dual-wielding in itself is not necessarily better than one, but different for different builds. Dual wielding is not necessarily better than a 2-hander from a damage point of view. It is a different playstyle and depends on the player’s preference.
Conclusion
Warriors have a wide array of options when it comes to two-handed weapons. From wielding them as Arms Warriors to dual-wielding them as Fury Warriors, these weapons are an integral part of the Warrior class fantasy. Understanding the intricacies of each specialization, and the mechanics of dual wielding is crucial for optimizing your gameplay and realizing your Warrior’s full potential. With careful planning and understanding of these nuances, you can effectively dominate the battlefields of Azeroth with your chosen 2-handed weapon.