Quarterstaff
A quarterstaff is a simple wooden staff, typically 6 to 9 feet long. It's one of the most versatile and accessible weapons in D&D, used by <a href="/characters/classes/monk-5e/">monks</a>, <a href="/characters/classes/druid-5e/">druids</a>, and <a href="/characters/classes/wizard-5e/">wizards</a> alike. The staff can be wielded with one or two hands, making it adaptable to different combat situations.
At a Glance
Type
Weapon
Cost
2 sp
Weight
4 lbs
Simple Melee WeaponVersatile (1d8)
Mechanics
Damage: 1d6 bludgeoning (one-handed) or 1d8 bludgeoning (two-handed). Melee weapon attack using Strength modifier. Range: 5 feet (reach). The Versatile property allows you to use either damage die depending on whether you use one or two hands.
Common Mistakes
Common Mistake
Forgetting you can switch between one-handed and two-handed as part of your attack
Common Mistake
Thinking the staff has reach (it doesn't extend your attack range beyond 5 feet)
Common Mistake
Not realizing <a href="/characters/classes/monk-5e/">monks</a> can use Dexterity instead of Strength with this weapon
Common Mistake
Assuming the versatile damage applies when wielding two quarterstaffs (you can't)
DM Tips
DM Tip
Quarterstaffs are great improvised weapons - a walking stick is essentially a quarterstaff
DM Tip
<a href="/characters/classes/monk-5e/">Monks</a> with Martial Arts can use this weapon with their Dex and deal their Martial Arts die instead
DM Tip
The low cost makes it accessible for peasant NPCs in combat encounters
DM Tip
Consider magical quarterstaffs as rewards - they're iconic for spellcasters
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & Further Reading
- Quarterstaff — D&D 5e Wikidot — SRD reference
- Quarterstaff — D&D Beyond — Official reference