Home/Items/Equipment & Weapons/Greatsword

Greatsword

The greatsword is a massive two-handed blade measuring 5 to 6 feet in length. This weapon epitomizes raw martial power, dealing the highest consistent damage of any non-exotic weapon in D&D 5e. Warriors who wield greatswords sacrifice the protection of a shield for devastating offensive capability. The weapon's great length and weight require both hands to wield effectively, but the payoff is exceptional damage output.

At a Glance

Type
Weapon
Cost
50 gp
Weight
6 lbs
Martial Melee WeaponHeavyTwo-Handed

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MechanicsCommon MistakesDM TipsFAQSources

Mechanics

Damage: 2d6 slashing. Melee weapon attack using Strength modifier. Range: 5 feet (reach). This weapon requires two hands to use (you cannot use a shield with it). The Heavy property means Small creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls with this weapon. The 2d6 damage is more consistent than the greataxe's 1d12, averaging 7 damage compared to 6.5.

Common Mistakes

Common Mistake
Small creatures trying to use this weapon effectively (they have disadvantage on attacks)
Common Mistake
Forgetting you can't use a shield while wielding a greatsword
Common Mistake
Not utilizing the Great Weapon Fighting style to reroll 1s and 2s on damage dice
Common Mistake
Assuming the greatsword deals more damage than the greataxe (it's more consistent, not higher)
Common Mistake
Thinking you can sheathe and draw a greatsword as a free action (drawing requires an action or object interaction)

DM Tips

DM Tip
Perfect weapon for Strength-based damage dealers like <a href="/characters/classes/barbarian-5e/">Barbarians</a> and <a href="/characters/classes/fighter-5e/">Fighters</a>
DM Tip
The 2d6 damage pairs exceptionally well with the Great Weapon Master feat
DM Tip
<a href="/characters/classes/barbarian-5e/">Barbarian's</a> Brutal Critical and <a href="/characters/races/half-orc-5e/">Half-Orc's</a> Savage Attacks benefit more from the greataxe's d12
DM Tip
Consider describing the weight and power of greatsword strikes for cinematic effect
DM Tip
The 50 gp cost makes it a significant early investment but very affordable at mid-levels
DM Tip
Great Weapon Fighting style adds about 1.33 damage per attack with this weapon

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Further Reading