What does 1d8 (1d6) +3 mean?

[solaris32]

Particular the one in parenthesis. Why do some weapons do this? Oh I think it's because the weapon is versatile. The first number is if it's 2 handed, second is if it's 1 handed.

[( ＾◡＾)っ ⋃]

Variable weapons deal more damage when held in two hands. So 1-6 damage for 1 handed and 1-8 damage for two handed, The +3 is a generic bonus from strength or the weapons natural damage.

[Uncle Brandon]

1d8 means an eight sided dice was used and 1d6 means a six died dice was used. The +3 after means you add +3 to what ever the roll was for that dice.

[FisTan]

means its 1d8 two handed, and 1d6 one handed weapon damage, meaning your weapon is versatile, ie can be used either way. +3 always gets added to the damage

[Dinvan]

Its the diff between using it in two hands or one hand.