Rogues: Longbow Proficiency Explained

Rogues are proficient with a variety of weapons, including simple weapons, hand crossbows, rapiers, saps, shortbows, and short swords. However, longbows are notably absent from this list. While some players may be inclined to house rule longbow proficiency for rogues, others argue that longbows are large and clunky, making them unsuitable for sneaky rogue characters. To gain longbow proficiency, rogues can train to be an elf, take the Weapon Master feat, or multiclass into a class that includes longbows in its weapon proficiencies. Ultimately, the decision to allow rogues to be proficient with longbows is up to the Dungeon Master's discretion.

Rogues are proficient with simple weapons, plus the hand crossbow, rapier, sap, shortbow, and short sword

Rogues are proficient with a variety of simple weapons, as well as some additional armaments that suit their stealthy and versatile nature. They can effectively wield simple weapons, which cover the basics and provide a solid foundation for their combat capabilities.

On top of that, rogues are also skilled with the hand crossbow, a lightweight and easily manoeuvrable ranged weapon. This adds to their mobility and ability to strike from a distance. The rapier, a fast and agile melee weapon, is also within their proficiency, allowing them to engage in close-quarters combat with grace and precision.

Rogues are also proficient with the sap, a club-like weapon designed to strike and stun opponents, which aligns with their stealth-focused playstyle. Additionally, they can utilise the shortbow, a compact and versatile bow that complements their sneaky tactics. The short sword, a lightweight and agile blade, is another weapon of choice for rogues, enabling them to strike swiftly and decisively in melee encounters.

While rogues have access to a diverse array of weapons, each with its own advantages and tactical applications, they are not proficient with shields, which leaves them more vulnerable to attacks.

Rogues are not proficient with longbows because they are huge and clunky

Rogues are known for being sneaky and agile, and longbows simply don't fit that image. A 6-foot bow slung on a rogue's back or carried around would be very conspicuous and would hinder their movement. Longbows are also not ideal for ambushes or quick reactions, which are key elements of a rogue's strategy.

In terms of gameplay, rogues already have proficiency with shortbows and hand crossbows, which are more compact and better suited for their character. These weapons allow rogues to maintain their stealth and maneuverability while still being able to make ranged attacks.

Additionally, the difference in damage between a longbow and a shortbow is minimal, usually only 1 point of damage on average. This small increase in damage is not worth the loss of stealth and maneuverability that a rogue would experience when carrying a longbow.

In conclusion, rogues are not proficient with longbows because longbows are huge and clunky weapons that do not align with the rogue's style of sneakiness and agility. Rogues are better off using shortbows or hand crossbows, which offer similar damage output while maintaining their stealth and mobility.

Rogues can gain longbow proficiency by training to be an elf

Rogues are not proficient with longbows, but they can gain longbow proficiency by training to be an elf. In the game, elves are naturally good at magic, have dexterity, and are proficient in perception. They are also versatile in any position regarding subclasses.

Elves are one of the archetypal candidates for a rogue build in Dungeons & Dragons 5e. All elves start out with a +2 bonus to their Dexterity score, which is ideal for building a rogue. Rogues' abilities (specifically Sneak Attack) are catered to finesse or ranged weapons, and the various Elven Weapon Training racial bonuses are more or less redundant here, as you either already gain proficiency in these weapons as a rogue or can’t make good use of them.

When it comes to picking a roguish archetype, any elf can pretty much fit into any niche, but there are a few combinations that synergize better than the rest. The Assassin subclass, for example, treats any hit against a surprised creature as a critical hit and can later deal double damage against those targets. Playing a subrace that thrives in the dark is hugely complementary.

The Scout subclass is all about sneaking around in nature and movement speed, which the Wood Elf takes to a whole other level. Outmaneuver and outfox your enemies, diving in and out of combat.

The Arcane Trickster subclass, on the other hand, brings magic as a plus to being a Rogue. You get to do magic, and you don’t need to go to wizard school to be able to do some of their spells.

The Thief subclass is a vanilla subclass for a Rogue but not a bad one if your character is cunning and more into street crime. Pickpocketing is a go-brrr with this ability! This ability doesn’t just cover crime but also your skill in lock-picking, using your tools and weapons, and disarming.

In terms of race/class combinations, elves are a popular choice for Rogues. All subraces will make good Rogues, it's just a matter of which one fits your style. Between magic, faster movement, or whatever other ability score you need a boost, your options are plenty.

Rogues can gain longbow proficiency via the Weapon Master feat

Rogues are proficient with all simple weapons, plus the hand crossbow, rapier, sap, shortbow, and short sword. They are proficient with light armor, but not with shields. However, rogues can gain longbow proficiency via the Weapon Master feat. The only way to do this within the rules is by taking the Weapon Master feat. Downtime training is only good for tools and languages. A more common way to do it is to multiclass.

The Weapon Master feat allows rogues to gain proficiency in four weapons of their choice. This feat is a great way for rogues to gain access to the longbow and improve their ranged capabilities. By taking this feat, rogues can become proficient in the longbow and gain the benefits of its longer range and higher damage output.

In addition to the Weapon Master feat, there are other ways for rogues to gain longbow proficiency. One way is through multiclassing into a class that has longbow proficiency, such as Fighter or Ranger. Another option is to choose a race that has longbow proficiency, such as Elf or Half-Elf. Players can also work with their Dungeon Master (DM) to create a backstory or quest that leads to gaining longbow proficiency, such as researching magic bows or completing a specific training arc.

It is important to note that gaining longbow proficiency may not always be the best option for rogues. Shortbows and hand crossbows are more suited for sneaking around and ambushing, which is a core aspect of the rogue class. Additionally, there are other ways to increase the rogue's damage output and effectiveness, such as choosing certain subclasses or taking specific feats that enhance their stealth and ranged capabilities. Ultimately, the decision to gain longbow proficiency depends on the player's preferred playstyle and the specific requirements of their character build.

Rogues can gain longbow proficiency by multiclassing

Rogues are not proficient with longbows. However, if you are playing Dungeons & Dragons, there are several ways to gain longbow proficiency by multiclassing.

One way to gain longbow proficiency is to multiclass into a class that has it. This could include multiclassing into a Fighter, Barbarian, Paladin, or Ranger. By taking a level in one of these classes, you will gain proficiency with all martial weapons, including longbows. This option provides flexibility in character creation and can add new dimensions to your character's abilities and backstory.

Another option is to take the Weapon Master feat, which grants proficiency in four weapons of your choice, including longbows. This feat is a popular choice for rogues who want to expand their weapon options without significantly altering their class progression.

Additionally, certain races, such as Elves and Half-Elves, have longbow proficiency as part of their racial traits. Choosing one of these races for your rogue character will grant you inherent longbow proficiency without the need for multiclassing or feats.

Lastly, some magic items, such as Bracers of Archery, can grant longbow proficiency. Acquiring such items through quest rewards, trading, or other means can be a creative way to give your rogue character access to longbows.

In summary, while rogues do not inherently have longbow proficiency, multiclassing into specific classes, taking certain feats, choosing particular races, or acquiring specific magic items can all provide your rogue with the desired longbow proficiency. These options allow for customization and add depth to your character's abilities and backstory.

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