6
\$\begingroup\$

What effect does the “loading” weapon property have in practical terms?

  1. In the absence of the property, why would it be assumed that a PC could fire more than once per action (firing once would be one action)?

  2. The scenario I’m picturing is where a PC has action, bonus action, and reaction on a turn. It would seem that a PC could fire 3 times.

In essence, this property doesn’t seem to make any difference (at least that I can see).

Improve this question
\$\endgroup\$
14
\$\begingroup\$

It limits PCs with the Extra Attack class feature

A 5th level Fighter (and many other classes) are able to make multiple attacks as part of their Attack Action. The Loading property prevents a character with Extra Attack from making multiple attacks with that weapon.

Improve this answer
\$\endgroup\$
3
  • 1
    \$\begingroup\$ This would be rather overpowered if the Fighter could use a Heavy crossbow 4 times on his/her turn. 4 times 5.5 (H. crossbow) vs. 4 times 4.5 (Longbow). If you were allowed to ignore Loading, you could deal 22 damage avg. per turn as opposed to 18. \$\endgroup\$ – TheCentaur Apr 10 '19 at 0:58
  • 3
    \$\begingroup\$ @TheCentaur I didn't mention it in my answer because it wasn't relevant, but the Crossbow Expert feat lets you do just that. :P \$\endgroup\$ – Nesbitto Apr 10 '19 at 4:25
  • 1
    \$\begingroup\$ @Nesbitto yes it does, but it costs you a feat, for +1 average damage per attack. Feats in 5e are _rare_. The Sharpshooter feat, in comparison, allows you to deal +10 damage if you reduce your attack roll by 5. \$\endgroup\$ – PixelMaster Apr 10 '19 at 10:50

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service, privacy policy and cookie policy

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.