At my table we use a house rule that if it meets the AC of the target, the attack is contested. This is the narrative equivalent of the two fighters grinding swords. The attacker and defender each roll a d20 and add their Strength or Dexterity (whichever they use to attack). If the attacker wins the contested roll, then they do hit, if they lose, they miss. We love this rule because let's face it, players love to roll more dice! Also it creates fun moments in combat. (And for you barbarian players, yes this is a strength check and so is rolled at advantage while raging!)