Step-by-step guidance on crafting the perfect Battle Master character, from maneuver selection to optimized ability scores.
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. With the help of this guide, you can create a Dexterity-based Battle Master who supports the party and subdues enemies from a distance using nets, crossbows, and strategic moves. This construct is ideal if you want a fighter who can do more than simply deal damage; it can also confine adversaries and create allies. Let’s dive into the details and bring this insectoid warrior to life in Dungeons & Dragons.
The Bug Game Hunter is a Thri-Kreen Battle Master who excels at ranged combat and control. This design, which combines the Quick Toss move to restrain enemies as a bonus action with abilities like Sharpshooter and Crossbow Expert for severe damage, has extra arms to wield nets and a hand crossbow. It’s a versatile fighter that shines in teamwork, granting advantage to allies while picking off targets from afar.
Here’s your step-by-step guide to creating the Bug Game Hunter, optimized for combat effectiveness:
Select Thri-Kreen because it has four arms that allow you to simultaneously handle a shield, hand crossbow, and net. You gain auxiliary arms for added utility, natural armor (13 + Dex for a strong base), and +2 Dexterity (which increases attacks and AC).
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.
Select Archery at Fighter level 1 to get a +2 bonus on ranged attack rolls. For pinpoint precision, stack it with Precision Attack.
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.
Aim for level 6 Sharpshooter (ignore cover, -5 to strike for +10 damage) and level 4 Crossbow Expert (bonus action hand crossbow attack). Your ranging output is amplified by these.
Start with a shield (+2 AC), a net (which restrains on impact), and a hand crossbow (1d6 piercing). Your Dex-based AC is increased to 17+ by studded leather armor.
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.
Here’s how the build evolves:
By level 7, you’ve got 20 Dex, 5 dice, and a lethal combo of control and damage.
This build leverages Thri-Kreen’s extra arms to bypass the net’s usual action economy drawbacks—normally, throwing one eats your whole turn. Quick Toss turns it into a bonus action, freeing up your primary action for actions like Action Surge or Extra Attack. Sharpshooter adds damage while Crossbow Expert adds additional shot. You can use Precision Attack to make sure your hits land, push adversaries into danger, or restrain them (providing teammates an edge). It’s a support-damage hybrid that shines in any party.
Open with Quick Toss to restrain a key target—bosses, casters, or fliers—giving your party advantage and hobbling their Dexterity saves.
To hold melee enemies at bay or herd them into traps like web or spike growth, use Pushing Attack while staying 15 to 30 feet back.
Use Sharpshooter’s +10 damage when you’ve got advantage (from a netted foe) or Precision Attack to offset the -5 penalty.
After hard battles, encourage your group to take a little break so that your 4-5 superiority dice can recharge.
To increase the impact of your nets, pair them with casters (for Dex-save spells) or rogues (for Sneak Attack).
You’re a battlefield puppeteer, locking down threats while dishing out pain.
These keep you accurate, durable, and deadly.
Tweak based on your campaign’s needs.
The Bug Game Hunter is your ticket to a Battle Master 5e that’s equal parts weird and wonderful. With nets flying, crossbows blazing, and enemies flailing, you’ll control combat like a four-armed maestro. Build it, play it, and watch as you make your enemies look foolish. For further advice, see our other guides, or dive right in and go hunting!
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