Halberd vs Glaive

The glaive and halberd are two iconic polearms featured in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition. While they differ historically, the current rules treat them as mechanically identical.  

Since both weapons share the same statistics, cost, and properties, an interesting question arises: What distinguishes the glaive from the halberd? 

In this guide, we’ll explore the historical roots, design, features, and gameplay purposes of these two weapons, helping you better understand their differences and how to use them in your campaigns.  

Glaive vs. Halberd in D&D 5e

Mechanically, the glaive and halberd are identical in D&D 5e. Both weapons share the following stats:  

- Cost: 20 gp  

- Damage:1d10 slashing  

- Weight:6 lbs  

- Properties: Heavy, Reach, Two-Handed  

The differences lie in their design and historical context.  

What Does a Glaive Look Like? 

Glaives appeared earlier and were simpler than the halberd.  They were utilitarian weapons, used by levies, commoners or infantry.

A glaive is a polearm featuring a single-edged blade resembling a sword mounted on a long staff. The blade can be straight or curved, sometimes incorporating a hook or spike on the back.  

While it may have a thrusting tip, the glaive is primarily a slashing weapon. It was historically effective against unarmored or lightly armoured opponents.  

Glaive Features and Historical Role:  

- Blade Design: A sword-like blade, sometimes with a thrusting tip or hook.  

- Combat Use:Primarily for slashing, with greater nimbleness in close combat.  

- Length: Around 6 feet, shorter and more manoeuvrable than a halberd.  

- Historical Use: Ideal for one-on-one combat or use by levies.  

What Does a Halberd Look Like?

Halberds emerged later than the glaive, during the late mediaeval and Renaissance periods, often used against heavily armoured opponents. They were associated with professional soldiers and the upper class, and often ornately crafted.

The halberd is a versatile weapon with an axe-head mounted on a staff, accompanied by a thrusting spike and sometimes a hook or hammerhead. This design allows it to slash, pierce, or even bludgeon, making it effective in a variety of combat situations.  

Halberd Features and Historical Role:

- Head Design: Combines an axe blade, spike, and often a hook.  

- Combat Use: Effective for slashing, piercing, and bludgeoning, with added utility.  

- Length: Typically 8–9 feet, offering greater reach than a glaive.  

- Historical Use: Favoured by professional soldiers for its anti-armor capabilities and versatility in formation combat.  

Using Glaives and Halberds in D&D

While their game mechanics are identical, you can incorporate their historical and design differences into your roleplay or house rules:  

1. Flavoured Roleplay: Use the weapon’s historical context to inform your character’s background or the setting’s culture. For example, a glaive might be a commoner’s weapon, while a halberd is wielded by elite guards.  

2. Homebrew Rules: Some DMs create mechanical differences, such as allowing halberds to deal bludgeoning, piercing, or slashing damage due to their versatile head design.  

Creative Uses in Combat

Both weapons offer utility beyond simple attacks:  

-Probing for traps: Safely test for traps with the long shaft.  

- Barring doors: Use the staff to block or jam doors.  

- Reaching objects: Retrieve items out of reach.  

- Hooking objects: Utilise hooks (if present) to manipulate items or climb.  

In combat, you can:  

- Trip opponents: Use the staff to knock enemies off balance.  

- Disarm enemies: Catch and pull away weapons with a hook or spike.  

- Control space: Use the weapon’s reach to keep enemies at a distance.  

- Environmental manipulation: Cut ropes, collapse structures, or clear obstacles.  

Final Thoughts: Glaive or Halberd? 

The choice between a glaive and halberd depends on your character’s needs:  

- Halberd: Best for those who want a versatile, multi-functional weapon suited for both combat and utility.  

- Glaive: Ideal for those seeking a sleek, nimble polearm for duels or personal combat.  

Historically, the halberd excelled in formation fighting and breaking through armour, while the glaive thrived in lighter, one-on-one engagements. In D&D, the distinction may be cosmetic, but the choice can enhance your storytelling and gameplay experience.