Home/Spells/Cantrips/Mage Hand

Mage Hand

A spectral, floating hand appears at a point you choose within range. The hand lasts for the duration or until you dismiss it as an action. The hand vanishes if it is ever more than 30 feet away from you or if you cast this spell again. You can use your action to control the hand, moving it up to 30 feet and using it to manipulate objects, open unlocked doors or containers, stow or retrieve items, or pour contents out of a vial.

At a Glance

Level
Cantrip
School
Conjuration
Casting Time
1 action
Range
30 feet
Duration
1 minute
Concentration
No

How Mage Hand Works

Casting Time1 action
Range30 feet
ComponentsV, S
Duration1 minute

Available to:

BardSorcererWarlockWizard

Common Mistakes

Common Mistake
Trying to use it in combat - it can't attack, activate magic items, or carry more than 10 pounds
Common Mistake
Forgetting you need to use your action each turn to control it after the initial casting
Common Mistake
Moving it more than 30 feet from you in a single turn - it vanishes if it goes beyond 30 feet

DM Tips

DM Tip
Allow creative uses like pulling levers, checking for traps, or delivering small items
DM Tip
Remember Arcane Trickster rogues get an enhanced version with invisible hand and bonus action control

Sources & Further Reading