Hand crossbows in BG3offer a unique blend of versatility and power that can make your character a force to be reckoned with. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, this guide will help you understand the ins and outs of using hand crossbows effectively.
Key Takeaways:
- Hand crossbows are highly versatile weapons suitable for both close and long-range combat.
- They can be dual-wielded for maximum damage output.
- Special hand crossbows like the “Ne’er Misser” offer unique abilities.
- Understanding the mechanics can help you optimize your build.
Why Choose a BG3 Hand Crossbow?
Versatility at Its Best
Hand crossbows are not just for show; they offer a range of tactical advantages. You can use them for both close and long-range combat, making them a versatile choice for any adventurer.
Dual-Wielding for Maximum Damage
One of the most exciting features of hand crossbows is the ability to dual-wield them. This allows you to maximize your damage output, especially when combined with certain abilities and spells.
Where to Find the Best Hand Crossbows in Baldur’s Gate 3
The Ne’er Misser: A Force to Be Reckoned With
If you’re looking for the best hand crossbow in BG3, look no further than the Ne’er Misser. This special weapon offers force damage and has unique abilities that set it apart from standard hand crossbows.
Vendor Locations
You can find standard and +1 versions of hand crossbows at traders in the Druid Grove. Make sure to check their inventory regularly as it refreshes over time.
Mechanics and Gameplay Tips
Understanding the “Loading” Tag
Hand crossbows in BG3 should have a “Loading” tag, which means you can’t attack more than once in a round without spending an action to reload them. However, this mechanic is not strictly implemented in BG3, allowing for more flexibility in combat.
Damage Comparison
Hand crossbows deal 1d6 damage, while longbows deal 1d8. Although longbows have a higher damage output per action, hand crossbows make up for it by allowing bonus action attacks.
FAQ – September 24, 2023
Why Aren’t Both My Hand Crossbows Firing?
If you’ve noticed that both your hand crossbows aren’t firing consistently, it’s likely due to the game’s action and bonus action mechanics. Your main hand crossbow fires using an action, while the off-hand requires a bonus action. If you’ve used your bonus action for something else, like jumping, only the main hand will fire.
How Can I Fire Both Hand Crossbows Twice?
To fire both hand crossbows twice in a single turn, you can take three levels in the Rogue class and choose the Thief subclass. This grants you a second bonus action, allowing you to fire both crossbows twice.
What’s the Hotkey for Enabling/Disabling Offhand Follow-Up?
The hotkey ‘R’ enables or disables the offhand follow-up. This is useful to know, especially if you’re planning your actions and bonus actions carefully.
Can I Equip a Melee Weapon and a Hand Crossbow?
Yes, you can equip a melee weapon in your main hand and a hand crossbow in your offhand. However, firing the crossbow will still require a bonus action.
What Special Abilities Do Hand Crossbows Have?
Some unique hand crossbows like the Ne’er Misser offer special abilities, including force damage. These abilities can significantly enhance your damage output and offer tactical advantages.
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