Weapon + Shield to 2H Weapon?

[avin]

Let's say this character is using a weapon which can be handled 1h or 2h. He also uses a shield.

Changing from on stance (let's say shield + weapon one handed) to another (weapon two handed) is a Minor or a Free action?

 

[Mentat55]

Character has a versatile weapon and shield in hand. To stow the shield is a standard action. Changing grip from 1H to 2H on the versatile weapon is, AFAIK, no action or a free action (we'll say free action -- should be able to do it just about whenever, but not when unconscious or stunned, for example).

So to go from one mode to another will basically take a standard action. If the character has to draw or sheathe a weapon, that adds a minor action to the process.

 

[Mesh Hong]

To equip or stow a shield is a standard action (PHB p289)
To drop a shield is a free action

So to change from stance "1H weapon + shield" to "same 1H weapon in two hands" would be either be:-

Standard action to stow the shield on your back
or
Free action to drop the shield in your square

 

[avin]

Thanks.

 

[chitzk0i]

To equip or stow a shield is a standard action (PHB p289)
To drop a shield is a free action

So to change from stance "1H weapon + shield" to "same 1H weapon in two hands" would be either be:-

Standard action to stow the shield on your back
or
Free action to drop the shield in your square

Stowing a shield is a standard action because there are straps securing it to your arm. Dropping it is a free action only after you've taken the standard action to un-equip it.

 

[Garmorn]

Stowing a shield is a standard action because there are straps securing it to your arm. Dropping it is a free action only after you've taken the standard action to un-equip it.

No. Dropping a shield does not include unequipped any straps except on some of the heavy shields and they are simple loops that you pull over your head. Stowing a shield requires more effort.

I have done live action with plywood shield. The include a handle and an arm band to hold the shield. To drop it you simply let go of the handle and shake it off.

So I would say a simple action at most.

 

[abyssaldeath]

I have done live action with plywood shield. The include a handle and an arm band to hold the shield. To drop it you simply let go of the handle and shake it off.

That sounds like more effort than swinging a sword and swinging a sword is a standard action.

 

[Turtlejay]

This is why real life is generally a bad example for gaming rules arguments. "Sounds like" is not good enough, just like "I've done it" is not good enough.

It is wise to avoid these whenever possible, as it usually just muddies the issue.

Jay

 

[mach1.9pants]

..the point being that in accordance with the rules dropping a shield (whether it is 'equipped or just held in your hands to carry it) is a free action. The rules make no distinction about being 'equipped' in this case, or in any!

 

[Mentat55]

4E assumes all shields are strapped to your arm, or rather makes no distinction. It does not matter. Readying or stowing a shield is a standard action, period.