Stabpierce

Stabpierce is a fictional combat technique described in fantasy settings as a precise, armor-penetrating thrust designed to exploit gaps in an opponent's defenses. The term combines stabbing with piercing to indicate a thrust that aims to breach protection rather than deal blunt damage.

In most game or narrative systems, stabpierce provides enhanced armor penetration, either by a fixed modifier or by ignoring part of the target's armor rating. It typically requires a clean line of attack, a minimum reach, and a suitable weapon—commonly a dagger, short sword, or spear—and may be gated by stance, momentum, or cooldown. Success depends on timing, accuracy, and sometimes opponent defenses.

In combat use, stabpierce is intended to strike vulnerable areas such as joints, gaps between armor plates, or exposed regions, making it effective against well-armored foes when used with precision. Some systems associate it with critical hits or additional effects after penetrating armor. Counterplay includes skilled parries, shield use, high-quality armor, or tactical positioning that closes weak points.

In-universe, stabpierce can be taught in schools or orders that emphasize precise puncturing technique and armor exploitation, and appears in equipment descriptions and skill trees as a specialized thrust.

References to stabpierce vary by setting, but its core concept remains a precise, penetration-focused stab designed to overcome defensive gear.