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Warhammer

A warhammer is a military one-handed hammer with a metal head featuring a flat striking surface on one side and often a spike or pick on the other. This martial weapon is favored by clerics, especially those devoted to forge or smith deities, as well as dwarven warriors. The warhammer's versatile property allows it to be wielded with one or two hands, making it adaptable for use with a shield or for maximum damage. The bludgeoning damage type is effective against skeletons and other creatures vulnerable to crushing weapons.

At a Glance

Type
Weapon
Cost
15 gp
Weight
2 lbs
Martial Melee WeaponVersatile (1d10)

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MechanicsCommon MistakesDM TipsFAQSources

Mechanics

Damage: 1d8 bludgeoning (one-handed) or 1d10 bludgeoning (two-handed). Melee weapon attack using Strength modifier. Range: 5 feet (reach). The Versatile property allows you to choose between wielding it one-handed (1d8) or two-handed (1d10) on each attack. When wielding one-handed, you can use a shield or keep a hand free for spellcasting or other purposes.

Common Mistakes

Common Mistake
Forgetting you can switch between one-handed and two-handed grips as part of your attack
Common Mistake
Not realizing the warhammer is mechanically identical to the longsword (just deals bludgeoning instead of slashing)
Common Mistake
Thinking warhammers automatically deal bonus damage to constructs or undead (they don't in 5e)
Common Mistake
Assuming clerics automatically get warhammer proficiency (only certain domains do)
Common Mistake
Not taking advantage of bludgeoning damage against skeletons (they're vulnerable in some settings)

DM Tips

DM Tip
Warhammers are thematically perfect for dwarven characters and forge clerics
DM Tip
Mechanically identical to longsword, so balance is well-established
DM Tip
Bludgeoning damage type can be situationally useful against certain enemies
DM Tip
The 15 gp cost and 2 lb weight make it accessible and easy to carry
DM Tip
Consider magical warhammers as rewards for cleric or dwarf PCs (Dwarven Thrower is legendary)
DM Tip
Perfect weapon for NPCs like priests of forge gods, dwarven warriors, and smiths
DM Tip
The versatile property creates tactical choices between defense (shield) and offense (two-handed)
DM Tip
Warhammers are historically associated with holy warriors and religious orders

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Further Reading