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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Cap'n Kobold" data-source="post: 7225570" data-attributes="member: 6802951">Force, yes. But "brute force" implies a lack of technique and control, which is not the case. The proficiency bonus is the same whether the weapon uses grace and balance or athleticism and power. Even a weapon as sturdy as a longsword isn't going to shear through solid armour. But a more powerful person is able to change the momentum of a blade faster: adjusting direction mid-swing to avoid an opponent's parry or going from guard to effective attack faster and with less warning. Big, probably, but bear in mind that in 5e, Strength is athleticism and ability to generate force. Bruce Lee is a good example of a high-str  character for example. (And high Dex. And probably decent Con and Cha scores as well). A real rapier requires somewhat more strength to use effectively than a longsword: the point is controlled by the muscles of the hand and forearm. It takes quite a lot of power to move the tip of something that long rapidly and with control - whereas the longsword's handle allows two hands to exert a much higher leverage using less force. A less athletic person can compensate by using a smaller, lighter rapier, but they then lose out offensively and defensively in terms of reach.</blockquote>