Build Guide: Bug Game Hunter
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Introduction to the Bug Game Hunter Build
The Bug Game Hunter is a standout Battle Master 5e build that blends ranged precision with battlefield control, all wrapped in the quirky shell of a Thri-Kreen fighter. This guide walks you through crafting a Dexterity-based Battle Master who uses nets, crossbows, and tactical maneuvers to dominate foes from a distance while supporting the party. If you want a fighter who’s more than just a damage dealer—one who restrains enemies and sets up allies—this build is for you. Let’s dive into the details and bring this insectoid warrior to life in Dungeons & Dragons.
What is the Bug Game Hunter Build?
The Bug Game Hunter is a Thri-Kreen Battle Master who excels at ranged combat and control. With extra arms to wield nets and a hand crossbow, this build uses the Quick Toss maneuver to restrain foes as a bonus action, paired with feats like Sharpshooter and Crossbow Expert for devastating damage. It’s a versatile fighter that shines in teamwork, granting advantage to allies while picking off targets from afar.
How to Build a Battle Master 5e: The Bug Game Hunter?
Here’s your step-by-step guide to creating the Bug Game Hunter, optimized for combat effectiveness:
Race - Thri-Kreen
Choose Thri-Kreen for its four arms, letting you hold a net, hand crossbow, and shield at once. You get +2 Dexterity (boosting attacks and AC), natural armor (13 + Dex for a solid base), and secondary arms for extra utility.
Ability Scores
Prioritize Dexterity (15 + 2 racial = 17) for ranged attacks and AC, then Constitution (14) for HP, and Wisdom (13) for Perception. Use point buy or standard array: Str 8, Dex 17, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 13, Cha 8.
Fighting Style - Archery
At Fighter level 1, pick Archery for a +2 bonus to ranged attack rolls, stacking with Precision Attack for pinpoint accuracy.
Maneuvers
At level 3, select Quick Toss (throw a net as a bonus action, adding damage), Precision Attack (add a superiority die to hit), and Pushing Attack (shove foes 15 feet with extra damage). These fuel your control and damage.
Feats
Take Crossbow Expert at level 4 (bonus action hand crossbow attack) and Sharpshooter at level 6 (ignore cover, -5 to hit for +10 damage). These amplify your ranged output.
Equipment
Start with a hand crossbow (1d6 piercing), a net (restrains on hit), and a shield (+2 AC). Studded leather armor boosts your Dex-based AC to 17+.
By level 6, you’re a mobile hunter with 19 AC (12 studded + 5 Dex + 2 shield), netting foes and shredding them with boosted crossbow shots.
Level Progression for the Bug Game Hunter
Here’s how the build evolves:
Level 1
Fighter – Archery Fighting Style, Second Wind (heal 1d10+1 HP).
Level 2
Action Surge – Gain an extra action once per short rest, doubling your net-throwing or shooting potential.
Level 3
Battle Master – 4 superiority dice (d8s), Quick Toss, Precision Attack, Pushing Attack, Student of War (e.g., carpenter’s tools).
Level 4
Feat – Crossbow Expert, Dex to 18 (+4 modifier).
Level 5
Extra Attack – Two attacks per action, netting then shooting or double-tapping with the crossbow.
Level 6
Feat – Sharpshooter, Dex to 20 (+5 modifier) with an ASI if needed.
Level 7
Know Your Enemy, 5 dice, add Menacing Attack (frighten foes + damage).
By level 7, you’ve got 20 Dex, 5 dice, and a lethal combo of control and damage.