Ok, I've seen lots of different opinions, but am looking for a more definitive answer: when a large/huge creature with reach limbs attacks an opponent beyond the 5' square, should it not provoke an AoO (unless it has some special feat)?
I see it as different from a reach weapon, in that the limb "is" the creature, so the creature should be considered as moving through a square for the the purpose of the attack.
Thoughts?
Ok, I've seen lots of different opinions, but am looking for a more definitive answer: when a large/huge creature with reach limbs attacks an opponent beyond the 5' square, should it not provoke an AoO (unless it has some special feat)?
Are you asking if it does, or if it should?
By RAW (and RAI) a large creature attacking with reach doesn't provoke attacks of opportunity. You can provoke by moving out of a threatned square. The creature is not moving, just attacking. You can't attack it's limbs (without Strike Back) and it doesn't provoke unless it normally would (tripping without Improved Trip, for instance).
If you want to house rule otherwise, that cripples large monsters, and you will have to deal with other similar questions. If a monk punches someone 5' away, his fist enters the opponents square to hit him, then leaves the square afterward, so the monk provokes every time he attacks. Kettle of fish, and not recommended.
Excellent. Best, most direct answer I've seen to this. Thanks much!
Strike Back <- A feat to consider for those up against the larger creatures.
The existence of the strikeback feat would seem to strongly indicate no. Otherwise anyone could ready an action to hit the dragons head as it comes at them.