Ability Focus (Channel Energy)

[Flintas]

Hi All,

Two part question.

1. Can you take the Ability Focus feat and apply it to the Channel Energy class ability.

2. If yes to #1, would it then apply to the Channel Smite feat or would that be considered a different special attack.

Personally I'd lean towards yes to both, but I'm looking for a second opinion.

[Dukai]

Since strictly speaking Ability focus is a monster feat, you would need to talk to your DM about taking it. However, if he/she is okay with it, then by all means you could apply it to your channel DC.

However, I would argue that you would not automatically get the boost to both channel energy DC as well as channel smite if you took it later. You would have to take Ability Focus (Channel Smite) to bump that DC as well...sorry.

Then again, you could make the argument that Channel Smite is merely a feat that increases your options for channeling energy. I could see that line of thinking allowing you to use your channel energy DC (which has been improved by ability focus) when you channel smite.

Bottom line:
1. sure (if your DM is okay with monster feats)
2. sure (if you convince your DM that's how it works)

Hate to say it, but this is really between you and your DM.

[blackbloodtroll]

The restriction on Bestiary feats is a fallacy.

To deny them is a houserule.

Yes, you able to do both.

[Dukai]

wait really? I thought I read somewhere that you should consult your GM before taking bestiary feats? awesome!

[blackbloodtroll]

The restriction lies only in a DM's houserules.

[Tinalles]

Well, that and you need to meet the pre-reqs. You can't take Improved Natural Weapon if you haven't got any natural attacks, for example.

[blackbloodtroll]

That is a given.

[The black raven]

1- Yes : Channel Energy is a special attack (just check any Cleric in the NPC Codex)

2 - Yes : Channel Smite mentions that the Will save is made "as normal", which means as normal for the Channel Energy special attack, thus with the added bonus

[Khrysaor]

Improved channel does what you're asking for and it's a regular feat, not a monster feat. If you allow PCs to take monster feats as well, you're now getting +4 to channel DCs.

[SkyHaussmann]

As blackbloodtroll pointed out, there's no allowing PCs to take monster feats, they are allowed. GMs can only houserule that they don't want PCs to take them.
the opening line of the monster feats section has been talked to death already.

Quote:

Most of the following feats apply specifically to monsters, although some player characters might qualify for them

Most PCs don't have fly speeds, natural weapons, breath attacks, natural armor, etc... but those that do can take these feats.