Simple Weapons 5e
Simple weapons in D&D 5e are weapons that require minimal training to use effectively. Most classes have proficiency with at least some simple weapons, making them accessible to nearly all characters. They include common implements like clubs, daggers, and spears. While simple weapons typically deal less damage than martial weapons, they're reliable, affordable, and versatile options for adventurers.
Simple Weapon Proficiency
The following classes have proficiency with all simple weapons: Barbarian, Bard, Cleric, Druid, Fighter, Monk, Paladin, Ranger, Rogue, and Warlock. Wizards and Sorcerers typically have limited weapon proficiencies.
If you make an attack with a weapon you're not proficient with, you don't add your proficiency bonus to the attack roll.
Simple Melee Weapons
| Name | Cost | Damage | Weight | Properties |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Club | 1 sp | 1d4 bludgeoning | 2 lbs | Light |
| Dagger | 2 gp | 1d4 piercing | 1 lb | Finesse, light, thrown (20/60) |
| Greatclub | 2 sp | 1d8 bludgeoning | 10 lbs | Two-handed |
| Handaxe | 5 gp | 1d6 slashing | 2 lbs | Light, thrown (20/60) |
| Javelin | 5 sp | 1d6 piercing | 2 lbs | Thrown (30/120) |
| Light Hammer | 2 gp | 1d4 bludgeoning | 2 lbs | Light, thrown (20/60) |
| Mace | 5 gp | 1d6 bludgeoning | 4 lbs | - |
| Quarterstaff | 2 sp | 1d6 bludgeoning | 4 lbs | Versatile (1d8) |
| Sickle | 1 gp | 1d4 slashing | 2 lbs | Light |
| Spear | 1 gp | 1d6 piercing | 3 lbs | Thrown (20/60), versatile (1d8) |
| Yklwa* | 1 gp | 1d8 piercing | 3 lbs | Thrown (10/30) |
*Yklwa is from Tomb of Annihilation and may not be available in all campaigns.
Simple Ranged Weapons
| Name | Cost | Damage | Weight | Properties |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crossbow, Light | 25 gp | 1d8 piercing | 5 lbs | Ammunition (80/320), loading, two-handed |
| Dart | 5 cp | 1d4 piercing | 1/4 lb | Finesse, thrown (20/60) |
| Shortbow | 25 gp | 1d6 piercing | 2 lbs | Ammunition (80/320), two-handed |
| Sling | 1 sp | 1d4 bludgeoning | - | Ammunition (30/120) |
Notable Simple Weapons
Dagger
The most versatile simple weapon. With finesse, light, and thrown properties, it works for any build. Perfect for spellcasters who need a backup weapon.
Quarterstaff
Excellent for monks (can use with Dexterity and Martial Arts) and for any character who wants versatile damage without spending much gold.
Spear
The best simple weapon for most characters - 1d8 versatile damage and thrown property for only 1 gp. Pairs well with a shield.
Light Crossbow
Best ranged option for characters without martial weapon proficiency. Deals 1d8 damage but has the loading property limiting you to one shot per turn.
Yklwa
A Chultan weapon dealing 1d8 damage with thrown property - essentially a stronger javelin. Limited availability to Tomb of Annihilation campaigns.