Computing Throwing Distance in 5e: A Comprehensive Guide

In Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition (5e), throwing distance is determined by a character’s Strength score and the type of object or weapon being thrown. This calculation is crucial as it influences tactical decisions during gameplay, such as attacking enemies from a distance or interacting with the environment creatively. Understanding throwing distance helps players maximize their character’s abilities and enhances the overall strategic depth of the game.

Strength Modifier and Size

In D&D 5e, the throwing distance is influenced by both the Strength modifier and the character’s size. Here are the specific formulas and examples:

Formulas

1. Strength Modifier:

   $$\text{Strength Modifier} = \left(\frac{\text{Strength Score} – 10}{2}\right)$$Strength Modifier=(2Strength Score−10​)

2. Character Size Modifier:

   • Tiny: -4
   • Small: -2
   • Medium: 0
   • Large: +2
   • Huge: +4

3. Throwing Distance Calculation:

   $$\text{Throwing Distance} = \text{Base Distance} + (\text{Strength Modifier} + \text{Size Modifier}) \times \text{Multiplier}$$Throwing Distance=Base Distance+(Strength Modifier+Size Modifier)×Multiplier

Example

Let’s say we have a Goliath with a Strength score of 18 (Strength Modifier +4) and they count as Large for lifting and carrying purposes (Size Modifier +2).

1. Strength Modifier:

   $$\text{Strength Modifier} = \left(\frac{18 – 10}{2}\right) = +4$$Strength Modifier=(218−10​)=+4

2. Character Size Modifier:

   $$\text{Size Modifier} = +2$$Size Modifier=+2

3. Throwing Distance Calculation:
   Assuming a base distance of 20 feet and a multiplier of 5:

   $$\text{Throwing Distance} = 20 + (4 + 2) \times 5 = 20 + 30 = 50 \text{ feet}$$Throwing Distance=20+(4+2)×5=20+30=50 feet

So, this Goliath can throw an object up to 50 feet.

Object Weight and Size

In D&D 5e, the weight and size of an object being thrown are factored into the computation of throwing distance using a combination of the character’s Strength score and the object’s characteristics.

Steps to Compute Throwing Distance:

1. Determine the Character’s Yeet Score:

   • Yeet Score = Strength Modifier + Size Modifier.
   • Size Modifier: Tiny (-4), Small (-2), Medium (0), Large (+2), Huge (+4).

2. Calculate the Object’s Heft Score:

   • Heft Score = Weight Modifier + Size Modifier.
   • Weight Modifier: Light (-2), Average (0), Heavy (+2).
   • Size Modifier: Tiny (-2), Small (0), Medium (+2), Large (+4), Huge (+6).

3. Compute Throwing Distance:

   • Throwing Distance = Yeet Score – Heft Score.
   • This result gives the number of 5-foot tiles the object can be thrown.

Example:

• Character: Strength 18 Goliath (Strength Modifier +4, Size Modifier +2 for being Large).

  • Yeet Score: 4 (Strength) + 2 (Size) = 6.

• Object: Empty Wooden Barrel (Medium size, Average weight).

  • Heft Score: 2 (Size) + 0 (Weight) = 2.

• Throwing Distance: 6 (Yeet Score) – 2 (Heft Score) = 4 tiles (20 feet).

This method ensures that both the character’s physical capabilities and the object’s properties are considered when determining how far an object can be thrown in 5e.

Range and Disadvantage

In D&D 5e, thrown weapons have two range categories:

1. Normal Range: The distance up to which you can throw the weapon without any penalties.
2. Long Range: The maximum distance you can throw the weapon, but with disadvantage on the attack roll.

For example, if a weapon has a range of 20/60, you can throw it up to 20 feet normally. If you throw it between 21 and 60 feet, you have disadvantage on the attack roll. Beyond 60 feet, the attack automatically misses.

Special Abilities and Feats

Here are some special abilities and feats in D&D 5e that can modify throwing distance:

1. Thrown Weapon Fighting Style: This fighting style, available to Fighters, allows you to draw a thrown weapon as part of the attack you make with it. Additionally, you gain a +2 bonus to damage rolls with thrown weapons.

2. Sharpshooter Feat: While primarily for ranged weapons, this feat can be useful for thrown weapons as well. It allows you to ignore disadvantage on long-range attacks, effectively doubling the range at which you can throw without penalty.

3. Tavern Brawler Feat: This feat increases your proficiency with improvised weapons, which can include thrown objects. It also allows you to make a grapple check as a bonus action after hitting with an improvised weapon or unarmed strike.

4. Kensei Monk: At 3rd level, a Kensei Monk can choose a ranged weapon as a Kensei weapon, which can include thrown weapons. This allows them to use their Martial Arts die for damage and gain additional benefits from their Kensei abilities.

5. Eldritch Knight Fighter: At 7th level, the War Magic feature allows an Eldritch Knight to make a weapon attack as a bonus action after casting a cantrip. This can be combined with thrown weapons for additional attacks.

6. Magic Items: Certain magic items, like the Javelin of Lightning, can significantly increase the effectiveness and range of thrown weapons. The Javelin of Lightning, for example, can be thrown up to 120 feet and deals additional lightning damage.

These abilities and feats can greatly enhance the versatility and effectiveness of characters who rely on thrown weapons in combat.

Calculating Throwing Distance in D&D 5e

To compute throwing distance in D&D 5e, you need to calculate the Yeet Score and Heft Score.

The Yeet Score is determined by adding the Strength Modifier and Size Modifier of the character, while the Heft Score is calculated by adding the Weight Modifier and Size Modifier of the object being thrown. Throwing Distance is then found by subtracting the Heft Score from the Yeet Score.

Why Understanding Throwing Distance Matters

Understanding these rules is crucial for effective gameplay as it allows players to accurately determine how far they can throw objects in combat. This, in turn, affects their ability to attack enemies at a distance and navigate the battlefield strategically.

By mastering the art of throwing distance computation, players can gain a significant advantage over their opponents and enhance their overall gaming experience.

Special Abilities and Feats that Affect Throwing Distance

Additionally, special abilities and feats such as Thrown Weapon Fighting Style, Sharpshooter Feat, Tavern Brawler Feat, Kensei Monk, Eldritch Knight Fighter, and magic items like the Javelin of Lightning can further modify throwing distance and make characters more effective at using thrown weapons.