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Disarming

Removed September 2024
Reason: Only made things confusing.

Note: this system applies when in combat or while initiative is active.

Traditionally in 5th edition it's difficult to get an object out of another creature's hand.
There's an optional rule about Disarming, which we'll use during this campaign:

A creature can use a weapon attack to knock a weapon or another item from a target’s grasp. The attacker makes an attack roll contested by the target’s Strength (Athletics) check or Dexterity (Acrobatics) check. If the attacker wins the contest, the attack causes no damage or other ill effect, but the defender drops the item.

The attacker has disadvantage on its attack roll if the target is holding the item with two or more hands. The target has advantage on its ability check if it is larger than the attacking creature, or disadvantage if it is smaller.

p. 271 of the Dungeon Master's Guide

There's also a standard rule for Fighters that also still applies named: "Disarming Strike"

When you hit a creature with a weapon attack, you can expend one superiority die to attempt to disarm the target, forcing it to drop one item of your choice that it’s holding. You add the superiority die to the attack’s damage roll, and the target must make a Strength saving throw against your DC. On a failed save, it drops the object you choose. The object lands at its feet.

Regardless of what tactic is used, be aware that an enemy can still pick up objects at the start of their next turn with their free 'object interaction'

The differences between the Disarm action and Disarming Attack are:

  • Disarm is an official optional combat rule whereas Disarming Attack is not. 

  • Anyone can use the Disarm action but only Fighters/Battle Masters can use Disarming Attack. 

  • Disarm does not deal damage but Disarming Strike does. 

  • Disarm is used instead of hitting the opponent, whereas Disarming Attack is used to enhance an already successful hit. 

  • The success of Disarm is measured in a contest between the attacker’s hit result and the target’s Strength or Dexterity check result. As where Disarming Strike is much more forceful and requires a Strength Saving Throw.

But what about spells? Can they knock something out of someone's hand?

No, this campaign has ruled that spells cannot be used to disarm during combat.
However spells such as Mage Hand or Mage Hand Legerdemain could if the creature isn't technically holding it in their hands.