Proficiency question

domi · Post by **domi** » Thu Aug 16, 2001 5:47 pm

Okay, this proficiency thing is bugging me.
So I'm an archer and want to put points in "Longbow." Now, you need both of your hands to use the longbow, therefore if I put points in "two-handed weapon style," I'd get futher bonuses. On the other hand, after all, longbow is a single weapon, so it also could be related to "single weapon style." I mean, you're not dual-wielding two longbows, right? So there, please help me out!!

Vinin · Post by **Vinin** » Thu Aug 16, 2001 5:49 pm

Yeah that confused me at first but then I figured it out. Single handed weapon means one hand, one weapon. Just pump slots into two-handed weaopon style, NOT two weapon style.

Amphibius · Post by **Amphibius** » Thu Aug 16, 2001 6:24 pm

As far as I know, the weapon styles only affect melee weapons... it does nothing to range weapons like bows or slings.

Path of Wind · Post by **Path of Wind** » Thu Aug 16, 2001 6:34 pm

Originally posted by Amphibius:
<STRONG>As far as I know, the weapon styles only affect melee weapons... it does nothing to range weapons like bows or slings.</STRONG>

You are absolutly correct. I just checked, ALL weapon styles are for MELEE ONLY.

UserUnfriendly · Post by **UserUnfriendly** » Fri Aug 17, 2001 1:46 am

Also, single weapons style adds to ac, not thalco, only adding to teo handed really does it for thalco.

Two handed allows faster swings and greater accuracy in connecting with a two handed weapon in meelee, single allows you to greater use what ever weapon you have to defend yourself with said weapon. as opposed to sword and shield, which also adds to ac.

Johnny · Post by **Johnny** » Fri Aug 17, 2001 6:20 am

It may be wise to put a slot or two in two-handed proficiency in case your run out of ammo and need to switch to a halberd or greatsword. If you have a well-managed line of melee fighters this isn't a worry - prioritise your longbow proficiencies.

If you have ToB I also suggest you do the first level of Watcher's Keep (it's not too bad at low levels) so as to get the Quiver of Plenty. The only bows that make their own ammo are shortbows, and keeping track of arrows is a pain.

dark__ranger · Post by **dark__ranger** » Fri Aug 17, 2001 6:50 am

this has nothing to do with the original posts, just a tip

but you may get better performance if you prioritize in shortbows
just my opinion

Johnny · Post by **Johnny** » Fri Aug 17, 2001 7:26 am

Yeah, I think you should grandmaster shortbows and get the Tuigan bow. Three shots per round is supremely powerful, far outweighing any meager damage or ThacO bonuses other bows offer.

dark__ranger · Post by **dark__ranger** » Fri Aug 17, 2001 7:30 am

i'd have to say though having something like tasheron's bow helped too (requires no arrows) because it can hit anything, even golems but i think my own personal fave was the gesen bow

Uther Pendragon · Post by **Uther Pendragon** » Fri Aug 17, 2001 8:12 am

Though I agree with all the finer points posted about shortbows, I still prefer the longbow for range.

I've tested my theory about this and it is right on the mark. You can shoot a longbow from a much greater distance than you can a shortbow. Which will just about even out the number of attacks you're able to get off before the enemy reaches you.

Take this factor and add the fact that longbows give off more damage than shortbows and the answer is simple.

And as far as using shortbows for unlimited ammo, you just need to heed the advice given by Johnny about the quiver of plenty.

Not to mention, it just doesn't seem right to be this big, bad Bhaalspawn carrying a little shortbow. "FEAR ME AND MY MIGHTY SHORTBOW!!" HAHAHA

But to each their own.

Doltan · Post by **Doltan** » Fri Aug 17, 2001 9:08 am

But what about Mazzy wielding the Tuigan Bow (+1)? With grand mastery and a fairly high level, she gets 5 attacks/round with it. But aren't attacks per round capped at 4? So, instead, I have her using the Tansheron's Bow (+3) which still gives her 4 attacks/round, has better to hit modifier, and doesn't need ammo. Am I right about the cap at 4 attacks/round? If not, then the Tuigan Bow's extra attack may be nice.