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In 5e, gone are the days when Clerics stayed behind tanky allies to prioritize healing the party. A lot of players are now finding more ways to make their Clerics more versatile characters in their campaigns. Clerics who want to deal just as much damage as they heal can refer to this guide to the best Cleric weapons in D&D 5e.
Updated December 31, 2022, by Rhenn Taguiam: With Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves slated for a 2023 release, fans, and newcomers to the TTRPG may want to consider giving the game a shot just to get a “feel” of the core Dungeons & Dragons experience. And for players who want to take on the role of a healer or the divinely attached, perhaps the Cleric is the best Class for them. However, those stuck trying to figure out the ideal gear for their new character might end up using sub-optimal gear that may hurt their performance. Thankfully, some ideal weapons players may consider for their Cleric include rather basic ranged and melee weapons, a special version of censures and warhammers, and even a mace powerful enough that it’s dedicated to a Cleric worshipping a particular being.
20 The Light Crossbow
While the Mace remains the thematic weapon of a Cleric, the Light Crossbow remains a decent alternative, especially for players who want to outlast it from a long-range standpoint. Being a healer first and foremost, the Cleric being able to protect themselves from afar without having to rely on their Spells is a must for practical or first-time Dungeons & Dragons players.
In turn, lower-level Clerics might consider grabbing a Light Crossbow for their primary weapon of choice. This is primarily because Light Crossbows may deal more damage than basic damaging Cantrips, leaving Clerics with more room for utility Cantrips to benefit the team. Not to mention, the common nature of the Light Crossbow makes it an often-available weapon in most stores.
19 The Javelin
Players who are aiming to gear up their Cleric with powerful swords but refuse to ascribe to the stereotypical Mace might want a similarly-useful weapon without resorting to the Light Crossbow. This is where the Javelin comes in.
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Boasting a similar damage toolkit as the Light Crossbow, the Javelin remains a decent alternative primarily due to its D&D damage attribute Strength requirement versus the Light Crossbow’s Dexterity-based damage. On top of this convenience, the Javelin is a common-enough armament that most weapon stores, smiths, and even armories likely have them in stock.
18 Lightbringer
Clerics with a Mace remain an iconic-enough image in almost any Dungeons & Dragons scenario, but players who love this aesthetic can take the “holy look” a step further with Lightbringer. First introduced in the “Lost Mines of Phandelver” adventure, Lightbringer is a Mace created for a Cleric worshiping Lathander, the god of dawn. In turn, its design features a head shaped like a sunburst, with the weapon able to glow like a torch upon command.
Perhaps more interesting is that the weapon itself is a +1 Mace, granting a small bonus to both Attack and Damage Rolls. Not only that, but it also deals an extra 1d6 of Radiant damage against undead creatures. Given its nature as a Legendary Artifact, Lightbringer is often found in hidden temples and potentially locked away in vaults located in places sacred to the divine and holy. If Dungeon Masters have a canon deity like Lathander as a worshipped god in their game, the weapon may be located in a temple dedicated to him.
17 Frost Brand
Clerics who want to add an elemental spin to their gear will appreciate Frost Brand. This sword deals 1d6 Cold damage to enemies while giving the wielder Fire resistance. The blade also emits light (10 feet bright, 10 feet dim) when exposed to freezing temperatures. For added effect, drawing Frost Brand will extinguish all flames of nonmagical origin within 30 feet of the wielder.
Introduced in the Dungeon Master’s Guide, this Very Rare (Requires Attunement) sword serves as the counterpart to Flame Tongue. Given its rarity, Clerics can acquire Frost Brand in an ancient temple or a holy site of a deity attuned to frost.
16 Holy Avenger
Situated atop the pinnacle of holy weapons lies the Holy Avenger, a Magic Weapon fit for the avatar of the deities. Wielders gain +3 Attack Rolls and +3 Damage Rolls. In addition, Undead creatures take an extra 2d10 Radiant damage should their flesh meet the Holy Avenger. Additionally, drawing the weapon releases a 10-foot aura of light that grants an advantage on Saving Throws against magical effects.
Unlike other weapons on the list, Holy Avenger requires the attunement of the Paladin. As such, Clerics interested in using the weapon would need to multiclass as a holy knight. However, DMs may make an exception by granting Holy Avenger as a reward from the Cleric’s Patron Deity.
15 Sword of Life Stealing
Clerics who want a darker theme to their signature weapon might want to hunt for the Sword of Life Stealing. This Rare (Requires Attunement) Magic Weapon deals 3d6 Necrotic damage to its target during a critical hit. The wielder also obtains Temporary HP equal to the aforementioned extra damage. However, Clerics should note that this weapon won’t work against Undead or Constructs.
This Sword might seem uncharacteristic for an ordinary Cleric to wield. However, Clerics who want an alternative to the stereotypical “holy” weapon can find the Sword of Life Stealing in the temple of a dark deity. Clerics who have taken a grim turn in their alignment may have the Sword to blame for their crisis (or enlightenment?) of faith.
14 Staff of Healing
Clerics devoted to the life and the healing arts should seek the Staff of Healing. This staff (Requires Attunement) is a common enough Magic Item for Clerics to acquire from their holy order. Additionally, its effects do complement the role expected of Clerics, especially in times of crisis.
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Wielders can use an Action to spend one or more of the Staff’s ten charges on potent Healing Spells (Mass Cure Wounds, Lesser Restoration, Cure Wounds). However, losing all charges will force players to roll a d20, where a 1 will force the Staff to blink out of existence. Thankfully, the Staff does regain its charges daily.
13 Wand of the War Mage
Though Clerics devote themselves to protection, that doesn’t mean they hesitate in battle. Clerics with a penchant for head bashing will suit the Wand of the War Mage. This Wand comes in three variants (Uncommon, Rare, and Very Rare), each more potent than the last. The Wand provides a Spell Attack Roll bonus denoted by its rarity. Additionally, it certifies a Cleric’s training in Combat Spellcasting, granting them the privilege to ignore half cover when making Spell Attacks.
The variations of rarity imply that multiple Wands exist throughout the world. In turn, Clerics may acquire them from specialized vendors. Perhaps Clerics need to become part of a secret cabal of warrior-casters to gain access to the weapon.
12 The Mace
Nothing beats a classic. Clerics about to start an adventure won’t go wrong with a trusty mace. Pair this weapon with a shield, and a Cleric can pack a punch while having a decent Armor Class (AC).
A mace is a simple melee weapon that deals 1d6 Bludgeoning on a hit. It’s not as versatile as a longsword, but it gets the job done. It’s also a great weapon to get while you farm for a more powerful item. As a mace is an item of Standard rarity, Clerics can get it from the local blacksmith or weapons shop.
11 Ring Of Spell Storing
A Ring of Spell Storing sounds nothing like a weapon. As the name implies, this ring will cast any spell stored in it. Moreover, a spell cast from this ring uses the same properties as though cast by the original caster. Spells cast from the ring will be expended, and there will be space to store another spell.
Clerics attuned to this rare item can store offensive spells on it to make room in their Prepared Spells for healing abilities. This ring can help clerics offer more skills to the party during battles. Players can get this ring from magical places such as wizarding schools or ancient libraries.
10 Javelin Of Lightning
The Javelin of Lightning is a perfect weapon for Clerics under the Tempest Domain. This javelin becomes a bolt of lightning when hurled. Should this happen, creatures within a five-foot-wide line in between the Cleric and the target have to make a DC 13 Dex save or suffer 4d6 lightning damage.
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Using the Javelin of Lightning’s unique ability reduces it into a standard magic weapon until the next dawn. This caveat means Cleric should probably use this ability on a strong opponent. Either way, ordinary javelins can deal 1d6 damage and can both be used in melee or thrown to targets. Players can acquire this weapon of Uncommon rarity from exotic weapon stores, or when visiting trading ports.
9 Flame Tongue
No one has to deny it - having a flaming sword is nothing short of impressive. Flame Tongue makes this dream come true by making a chosen sword possess a fiery blade. Players wielding Flame Tongue can cast a command word to cause flames to engulf its blade. If this weapon hits a target, the target suffers an additional 2d6 fire damage. This ability makes this weapon perfect not just for Fighters but for any class.
Clerics who want to spice up their hits with the “fiery wrath” of their deity should definitely get this rare weapon. The additional light source it provides can make it a great asset in dark environments. Players can acquire Flame Tongue from mysterious treasure chests, or as a reward from a powerful wizard.
8 Mace Of Disruption
Clerics often get associated with maces, and the Mace of Disruption makes this stereotype something to fear. Any kind of Cleric using a mace may want to consider having it enchanted to this rare item. Mace of Disruption takes the form of any mace and, when held, releases both bright and dim lighting.
Mace of Disruption may seem unhelpful in most encounters. However, its magic shines when used against the undead and fiends. Clerics that hit these kinds of opponents will add 2d6 radiant damage to their total damage output. Not only that, but targets that end up with 25 HP or lower after taking that bonus damage will have to succeed in a Wisdom save (DC 15) or be destroyed! Clerics can acquire a Mace of Disruption in sacred sites. They may also try asking their respective deity’s representatives for assistance. Clerics that want to wield the Mace of Disruption need to be Attuned to it.
7 Sun Blade
Clerics wielding Sun Blade will get a longsword hilt that can unleash a blade of radiant light when activated. Yes, Clerics can go Star Wars in D&D.
Sun Blade is a rare +2 shortsword with the Finesse property. Aside from this, the blade deals radiant damage instead of slashing damage. Since it has a blade of pure light, Sun Blade can emit a bright light that can be expanded or reduced. Similar to Flame Tongue, getting Sun Blade can add great flavor to a Cleric character. It can also deal additional 1d8 radiant damage to undead opponents. This weapon may be present in ancient temples or sacred grounds.
6 Staff Of Thunder And Lightning
Clerics who have the Staff of Thunder and Lightning can use the very elements against their opponents. This staff gives Clerics access to five unique abilities that can be used once per dawn. Each of these can either add extra damage or cause status ailments to targets.
The Staff of Thunder and Lightning allows Clerics to use its abilities once per dawn, giving Clerics five turns to perform new actions on top of their existing skill set. However, this staff can still be a great asset as a weapon alone, as players can treat this as a +2 Quarterstaff. As a Very Rare item that requires attunement, players will most likely get this staff after important quests or from a powerful magic user.
5 Hammer Of Thunderbolts
Clerics who want to be like Thor, God of Thunder, should get Hammer of Thunderbolts. This Hammer requires Clerics to equip the Gauntlets of Ogre Power and Belt of Giant Strength before the attunement. Clerics attuned to this weapon get a +4 Strength score boost. Moreover, this weapon destroys giants that fail a DC 17 Con save when suffering a critical hit. The Hammer also allows Clerics to make ranged attacks that can create a thunderclap capable of stunning opponents.
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Attunement to the Hammer requires the acquisition of the Belt of Giant Strength (Rare) and Gauntlets of Ogre Power (Uncommon). This requirement might seem daunting, but getting the items above can be done at the beginning of a campaign. A Strength-based Cleric can become a juggernaut on the battlefield with these items. As a Legendary item, Clerics can expect this weapon to be tough to find. This weapon can either be found in ancient dwarven fortresses or inside dwarven cities.
4 Devotee’s Censer
Despite the existence of Clerics in most editions of Dungeons & Dragons, the censer hasn’t exactly been a featured-enough implement used by the clergy in most official material. The immediate image of the Devotee’s Censer from “Tasha’s Cauldron of Everything” gives it a darker, more Gothic appearance similar to the likes of Diablo and Warhammer Fantasy. In turn, the Devotee’s Censer is an interesting alternative to Cleric “usuals” like the Mace.
Moreover, being a Rare Weapon, the Devotee’s Censer is a weapon easy enough to acquire from offices of the clergy or holy sites. Given its divine nature, this +1 Weapon can boost damage against Undead creatures by dishing out extra 1d8 Radiant damage. Not only that, players can use a command word once a day to release a cloud of incense that reaches 10 feet for a minute, with all creatures in that cloud regaining 1d4 HP per turn. While not as effective against enemies like Dungeons & Dragons staple Mindflayers, the Censer remains a decent damage-plus-heal utility weapon for most situations.
3 Duskcrusher
A warhammer remains one of the most prominent weapons of a holy warrior like the Cleric, perhaps due to the image of smashing demonic creatures to smithereens. For players who want a more awesome take on the warhammer might want to get the Duskcrusher from a forge or a temple dedicated to Pelor, the Dawn Father.
In the lore, players only find the Duskcrusher as a leather-wrapped metal rod with the god’s symbol. Grasping the rod, however, can have players spring into existence a radiant warhammer head. Not only does this emit both bright and dim light for 15 feet, but the weapon is also a +2 Warhammer that deals pure Radiant damage instead of Bludgeoning. Moreover, undead creatures get a 1d8 Radiant damage bonus when ht. Lastly, once until the next dawn, players may be able to cast the Sunbeam spell with a Spell Save DC of 15. These attributes make the Duskcrusher quite effective against most Dungeons & Dragons monsters, especially when buffed properly.
2 Moonblade
Clerics with Moonblade can gain access to many abilities, which makes this weapon a versatile addition to their arsenal. Elves have passed down Moonblade from generation to generation. Upon acquisition, the Moonblade has at least one rune that grants a unique ability. Given its in-game history, Moonblade adds a lot of flair to any adventuring party. As a sentient weapon, it can communicate through feelings and has a personality of its own. Plus, the possibility of having two to seven additional features can make Moonblade extremely powerful.
Unlike other weapons in this list, aside from Attunement, Moonblade requires players to be a half-elf or an elf with a Neutral Good alignment. As a coveted Legendary weapon in elven society, players may find this in noble houses or ancient elven sites.
1 Defender
Clerics that want to tank can finally see this dream become a reality with Defender. Defender is a +3 magic weapon in the form of a longsword. However, it’s this weapon’s versatility that can make a Cleric more than capable of going melee. First attacks Clerics with Defender every round allow Clerics to transfer +1 to +3 of Defender’s bonus to their AC. This ability can help Clerics defend themselves or others in times of need.
Players can acquire this Legendary item in places of royalty. As a Legendary weapon, DMs may give Defender as a quest reward.
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