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Heavy Crossbow

The heavy crossbow is a powerful mechanical weapon that launches heavy bolts with tremendous force. This large, unwieldy crossbow deals the highest damage of any standard ranged weapon (1d10), but requires significant strength to wield and time to reload. The heavy crossbow is favored by characters who value raw damage over attack frequency, making it ideal for single-shot sniper builds or for characters without Extra Attack who want to maximize damage per attack.

At a Glance

Type
Weapon
Cost
50 gp
Weight
18 lbs
Martial Ranged WeaponAmmunition (range 100/400)HeavyLoadingTwo-Handed

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MechanicsCommon MistakesDM TipsFAQSources

Mechanics

Damage: 1d10 piercing. Ranged weapon attack using Dexterity modifier. Range: 100/400 feet (normal range 100 feet, long range with disadvantage up to 400 feet). This weapon requires two hands to use and ammunition (bolts) to fire. The Loading property means you can fire only one piece of ammunition when you use an action, bonus action, or reaction to fire this weapon, regardless of the number of attacks you can make. The Heavy property means Small creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls with this weapon.

Common Mistakes

Common Mistake
Forgetting the Loading property prevents using Extra Attack effectively (you can only fire once per turn)
Common Mistake
Not realizing Small creatures have disadvantage with Heavy weapons
Common Mistake
Thinking the heavy crossbow is better than longbow for characters with Extra Attack (it's usually not due to Loading)
Common Mistake
Assuming you can reload and fire multiple times with Action Surge (Loading limits you to one shot per action)
Common Mistake
Not understanding that Crossbow Expert feat removes the Loading restriction

DM Tips

DM Tip
Heavy crossbows are best for characters without Extra Attack (rogues, single-attack clerics)
DM Tip
The 1d10 damage makes it excellent for delivering Sneak Attack for rogues
DM Tip
Sharpshooter feat pairs well with the high base damage
DM Tip
The 50 gp cost and 18 lb weight make it a significant investment
DM Tip
Perfect for guards, snipers, and defensive positions in adventures
DM Tip
Crossbow Expert feat makes this weapon viable for Extra Attack users
DM Tip
The Loading property is often overlooked - enforce it to balance ranged combat
DM Tip
Consider heavy crossbows for siege weapons or mounted defenses thematically

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Further Reading