In the Dungeons and Dragons 5th edition, (D&D 5e), firearms are not a part of the basic rules. However, some Dungeon Masters may choose to include them in their campaigns as a way to add a different element to the game. These historic or imaginary firearms are treated like any other type of ranged weapon, such as a bow or crossbow.
However, the arcane pistol fires magical energy instead of a bullet propelled by an explosion of black powder, making it appropriate for high magic campaigns.
Arcane Pistol
Weapon (firearm), very rare (requires attunement)
You gain a +1 bonus to ranged attack rolls made with this magic weapon, which deals 1d10 radiant damage on a successful hit.
The arcane pistol fires 1 shot of magic ammunition per round and doesn’t need to be reloaded. The pistol can fire up to 20 shots each day. The magic ammunition recharges at dawn.
It’s up to you to decide whether a character has proficiency with a firearm. Characters in most D&D worlds wouldn’t have such proficiency.
Damage: 1d10 piercing
Weight: 3 lbs.
Properties: Ammunition (Firearms), (Range 30/90)
It’s important to note that the use of imaginary firearms in D&D is entirely up to the discretion of the DM, and not all D&D games will include them.
There are several reasons why a Dungeon Master might not allow player characters (PCs) to use firearms in a Dungeons & Dragons game. One reason is that firearms are not a part of the official core D&D rules and may not be familiar to all players.
Additionally, firearms can potentially unbalance the game by giving PCs an advantage over other types of ranged weapons, such as bows and crossbows. The use of firearms can also change the feel and tone of the game, as D&D is typically set in a fantasy world where gunpowder and other modern technology do not exist.
Finally, some DMs may simply prefer to stick to the traditional weapons and mechanics of D&D, rather than introducing new and potentially unfamiliar elements to the game. It’s important to note that these are just a few examples of why a DM might not allow firearms in their D&D game, and the decision to include or exclude them is entirely up to the DM.
Let us know if you use the Arcane Pistol in your campaign!
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