More backpack questions?

[Slamy Mcbiteo]

Quick question...does a backpack provide any encumbrance benefits? Or is it just a container. How do people deal with retrieving something from a backpack? I am thinking move action or full round if the pack is worn. For some reason I can not really find any rules on backpacks anywhere. I did see the thread on how much can it hold which is good to know but thought ask a few more questions...

[VRMH]

Quick answer: no.

[Mike J]

However, a masterwork backpack does provide encumbrance benefits - treat your Strength score as +1 higher than normal when calculating your carrying capacity.

Also, retrieving a stored item (aka getting something from your backpack) is a move action that provokes an attack of opportunity.

[shadowmage75]

Consider backpacks to be 'maneuver boosters' in that, shucking a heavy singular load of weight will kick you up to light encumbrance, putting your move distance to the maximum you are capable. Same applied to encumbrance based penalties in skills.

I look at it as a roleplaying aspect. Rules wise, we've said (my gaming group) that it takes a full round action to drop a backpack and pull something out of it, which must be done that way. We regard it as applied to the question 'what would we be able to do, feasibly, in real life?'

Also, for general strategy, having all your breakables, your scrollcases, and other whatnots scattered over your body in the open makes them collateral damage for GM's with a mind to detail. Having dropped that necklace of fireballs in the pack until you actually need it can save your life.

[Slamy Mcbiteo]

Thanks shadowmage75 I think that makes sense...the ability to drop a back and be at a light load quickly makes more sense to me. Also I think it would be a full round action to retrieve from a backpack but it seems the it is a move action via the rules.

Thanks Mike J for pointing out the masterwork backpack...seems like everyone would have one of those...some how I missed that in APG. Thanks for pointing it out.

[Mike J]

No problem. The masterwork backpack isn't an auto-buy for everyone. Once you can afford a Bag of Holding or the like, the kind of backpack you have doesn't matter. Before then, the additional cost (+48 gp) and weight (+2 lbs) may make it prohibitive. Also, the gear-light types (wizards, etc.) don't need it and the heavy-lifters (high Str and/or heavy armor) just don't care. It is more of a niche item for those that really need it.