Shields can’t be used alongside a two-handed weapon. They can, however, be used with a versatile weapon (so long as you’re using only one hand for the weapon). There is one generalization of “shield” in 5E, which cannot be used with a 2h.
Does a shield count as a free hand?
The shield would be considered in your off-hand, as such you’re limited to using a versatile or one-handed weapon with the shield. However, if you were to stow your shield, you would then be able to use the 2-handed weapon but you’d lose the ac bonus from the shield as it is no longer in use.
Can you use MAGE hand to hold a shield?
You can use your action to control the hand. So you would need to use your action each turn to Ready the hand against the first attack made against you. This only allows you to move and use any bonus action you may get. A shield held in your hand does this for free against all attacks.
Can you have a greatsword and a shield?
If a character is wielding a shield, can they also be using two-handed weapons like greatswords? “Halt your wagging and wag your halters, for I am mastercryomancer!” Generally, no. You’d need one hand to hold the shield.
Do you need a free hand to cast shield 5e?
You can, you just need the other hand free, or the War Caster feat, which allows you to cast spells with somatic component while wielding shield and weapon.
Can You wield a shield with only one hand?
When you wield the shield, you need to use 1 hand for it, and when you only just wear it your hand is free to do what you like (cast spells even). In short, it allows us to use versatile weapons with a shield easily and change our strategy during battle without taking the 1 action to don or doff the shield.
Can a shield be used with a 2h weapon?
They can, however, be used with a versatile weapon (so long as you’re using only one hand for the weapon). There is one generalization of “shield” in 5E, which cannot be used with a 2h. If your DM wanted to homebrew something you can, but in standard rules it’s not allowed.
Can you cast a spell while holding a shield?
Only spells with a Somatic component require that you have a free hand. If a spell requires a somatic component, the caster must have free use of at least one hand to perform these gestures. – Player’s Handbook, pg. 203 You can perform the somatic components of spells even when you have weapons or a shield in one or both hands.
Can you use a shield on a thrikeen?
You wear one “armour” item and hold one “weapon” item or “shield” item in each hand. “Weapon” items with the two-handed tag take both hands, so you can’t use a shield item. Unless you are a thrikeen. An shield is piecemeal armour.
