Hand Axe vs Short Sword: Which One-Handed Melee Weapon Reigns Supreme in DD 5th Edition?

In the mystical realm of Dungeons and Dragons Fifth Edition (DD 5th Edition), fighters often grapple with the age-old question: should I wield a hand axe or a short sword? Both are light and deal 1D6 damage, but the similarities end there. This article will dissect the key differences, making it easier to choose the best weapon for your DD campaign.

The Basics

When it comes to a one-handed martial melee weapon, both the hand axe and short sword share a few commonalities:

1D6 damage 2lbs weight Convenient for two-weapon fighting

Key Differences

Weapon Category

Hand Axe (Simple Melee Weapon)

Available to all classes out of the box Cost: 5gp Damages using Slashing Thrown range: 20/60 feet No finesse property, relying on Strength for attacks

Short Sword (Martial Melee Weapon)

Requires proficiency (Martial Weapon proficiency) or is exclusive to certain classes Cost: 10gp Damages using Piercing Finesse property: allows attacks with Dexterity or Strength Light property: fits the criteria for two-weapon fighting

Cost Comparison

Cost can play a significant role, especially when characters need to replace weapons in-game. The hand axe is significantly cheaper (5gp) compared to the short sword (10gp). This factor tips the scales towards the hand axe, particularly for those starting an adventure with limited funds.

Damage Type

Both weapons deal 1D6 damage, but the difference lies in the type of damage:

Hand Axe: Slashing (e.g., Black Puddings and Ochre Jellies may have resistance to slashing damage) Short Sword: Piercing (e.g., Treants may have resistance to piercing damage)

Though some specific creatures have resistance (or immunity) to these damage types, this isn't a significant factor in most combat scenarios.

Weight

Both weapons are 2lbs, making them ideal for quick draw in two-weapon fighting maneuvers.

Properties and Special Features

Hand Axe

Thrown: Allows forThrown attacks, which can be advantageous in certain situations. However, it only works within 20 feet at full advantage and 60 feet with disadvantage.

Short Sword

Finesse: Can be used for attacks with either Dexterity or Strength, providing more versatility in combat.

Combat Impact

The short sword generally edges out the hand axe in terms of combat effectiveness due to its finesse property, which allows for Dexterity-based attacks that many arcane and divine classes tend to focus on. The ability to use two weapons in various combat situations also gives the short sword an edge over the hand axe.

Conclusion

In summary, the hand axe offers versatility in two-weapon fighting and is more accessible due to its cheaper cost and simplicity. However, the short sword may be the better choice for those who can afford its higher cost and seek the flexibility of Dexterity-based attacks. Ultimately, the choice depends on your character's background, class, and specific campaign needs.