I'm playing a gunslinger (mechanist) [a 3rd-party archetype that uses INT for grit and focuses on know(engineer)] in Iron Gods, currently at 5th level. The build is focused on maximizing the damage on a single shot each round (so not going for crazy multi-gun/multi-shot approach).
As we look toward 6th level, I'm considering a brief 1-level dip. I've narrowed it down to 3 potential choices. I'm looking for outside opinions (I'm not necessarily looking to go with the most power-optimal choice, but want to consider all possibilities) - gaining perspectives from others is always helpful. I'm going to choose from the following:
1) stick with straight Gunslinger, which lets me get to level 11 and Signature Deed as quickly as possible, and progress other class abilities
2) take a level of Alchemist, which would not only let me use Mutagen for the DEX boost, but would give me a handful of 'spell' options. Drawback is the loss of BAB and slightly lower hit die.
3) take a level of Mutagen Fighter (cheese ahoy!), for the mutagen and free feat
Any thoughts? Are there things I haven't considered?
*bump*
Any thoughts? Are there things I haven't considered?
Mmm.. it's a toss-up. Keep in mind that enhancement bonuses to dex don't stack, so as far as I know, that mutagen build will mean you get nothing from most dex gear you pick up, if not all (up to the gm if he'll allow "insight" stat bonus gear, etc). I'm assuming you are intent on using that 7th level deed -- eh, dead shot - you roll all at once for multiple attacks by your BAB, so the more dex (or int in this case), the more damage you'll do in a single shot, especially if you get improved criticals as early as possible. the only problem with that build is that you can't use rapid relead/rapid shot with it, as r.shot's a full attack action. Which leaves Deadly aim, which works fine, but you lose the touch attack when using firearms with it. Doesn't count as "precision" damage at least, so your opening volley in combat can be pretty vicious with just deadly aim and weapon spec.
Anyway, just keep in mind that the eventual +x int thingy or dex belt will outwiegh your 1 level dip into alch. One question though - does that archetype ADD int to your damage, or does it replace dex, or is it just grit? Im not familiar with the mechanist
Mmm.. it's a toss-up. Keep in mind that enhancement bonuses to dex don't stack, so as far as I know, that mutagen build will mean you get nothing from most dex gear you pick up, if not all (up to the gm if he'll allow "insight" stat bonus gear, etc). I'm assuming you are intent on using that 7th level deed -- eh, dead shot - you roll all at once for multiple attacks by your BAB, so the more dex (or int in this case), the more damage you'll do in a single shot, especially if you get improved criticals as early as possible. the only problem with that build is that you can't use rapid relead/rapid shot with it, as r.shot's a full attack action. Which leaves Deadly aim, which works fine, but you lose the touch attack when using firearms with it. Doesn't count as "precision" damage at least, so your opening volley in combat can be pretty vicious with just deadly aim and weapon spec.
Anyway, just keep in mind that the eventual +x int thingy or dex belt will outwiegh your 1 level dip into alch. One question though - does that archetype ADD int to your damage, or does it replace dex, or is it just grit? Im not familiar with the mechanist
Thanks for the thoughts!
The mutagen bonus is 'alchemical,' so I believe it stacks with enhancement.
I'm actually intentionally NOT going with the dead shot build; the character concept is based on finding the weak spot in an opponent through careful aiming and a single shot. I'd like to stay Gunslinger for at least another 6 levels (really want signature deed!).
The mechanist just bases grit off INT instead of WIS
aha, i stand corrected then. I wonder if focused shot can be mixed in somehow then. I know it says bows/crossbows, but Your dm may allow it, as I think F.S was printed before the gunslinger class got published.
Also, not sure how it blends with the Alchemist ability - adding the alch bonuses to dmg, does it take any special action?
Mr. Shiny,
I'll offer a counter proposal to Alchemist. Dip into Ninja and learn the Vanishing Trick. When you are Invisible, your victims lose their Dex bonus against you, so your Sneak Attack activates with every shot. And your guns make ranged touch attacks, now against Flat Footed AC.
How cool is that?
while ninja adds some great sniper capability, I wonder if flat-footed touch attack is just overkill - by level 10 his bab is anywhere from 7-10. with a +2 weapon, that's pretty much an automatic hit on anything other than a 1
Mr. Shiny,
I'll offer a counter proposal to Alchemist. Dip into Ninja and learn the Vanishing Trick. When you are Invisible, your victims lose their Dex bonus against you, so your Sneak Attack activates with every shot. And your guns make ranged touch attacks, now against Flat Footed AC.
How cool is that?
I'm not sure if the conditional +1d6 damage is really worth it, plus Ninja requires CHA, which I do not have...