Article-At-A-Glance
- The Big Iron[1] is renowned for its masteries with firearms, as we will explore in this guide.
- Explores an application Pathfinder 1E Gunslinger Builds for character creation and development.
- Provides strategic combat tips for balancing offensive and defensive playstyles effectively.
- Discusses synergy of feats and abilities, resulting in enhanced gameplay versatility.
Click on the level for more information
This build at level 1 focuses on setting the groundwork for a powerful combination of Gunslinger and Holy Gun Paladin archetypes. With a high Dexterity score, the character excels in firearms proficiency, boasting increased accuracy and damage with ranged attacks. The build also ensures resilience with the favored class bonus going into Hit Points, making the character both a lethal shooter and a durable frontliner. Key feats like Deadly Aim and Point-Blank Shot allow for significant ranged attack enhancements right from the start.
Stat Block Level 1:
Gunslinger : male, Human Gunslinger 1; CR 1/2; Medium humanoid (human); HD 1d10; hp 10; Init +6; Spd 30 ft.; AC 15, touch 13, flat-footed 12; Base Atk +1; Grp +1; Atk Pistol +5 ranged (1d8/x4); Full Atk Pistol +5 ranged (1d8/x4); SA Grit, Gunsmith; SQ Gunsmithing, Deeds, Grit; AL LG; SV Fort +2, Ref +6, Will +0; Str 10, Dex 18, Con 10, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 14.
Skills, Abilities, and Feats:
Diplomacy +6 (1 rank), Intimidate +6 (1 rank), Knowledge (local) +4 (1 rank), Perception +6 (1 rank), Sense Motive +4 (1 rank); Deadly Aim, Point-Blank Shot, Gunsmithing (Bonus).
Special Attacks and Qualities:
Deeds (Quick Clear, Gunslinger’s Dodge).
Possessions: Masterwork pistol, 20 bullets, Gunsmith’s kit, Leather armor.
This Level 5 build moulds the character as a Gunslinger utilizing the Mysterious Stranger archetype with Paladin multiclassing leaning towards Holy Gun. Main strategies involve using Rapid Shot for multi-attacks with feats enhancing accuracy and damage. Initiative is prioritized for quick reactions, and abilities like Deadly Aim and Point-Blank Shot increase lethality right off the bat.
Stat Block Level 5:
Gunslinger : male, Human Gunslinger 5/Paladin 0; CR 5; Medium humanoid; HD 5d10; hp 50; Init +6; Spd 30 ft.; AC 17, touch 14, flat-footed 13; Base Atk +5; Grp +5; Atk Pistol +9 (1d8+1/20/x4) or Light Crossbow +9 (1d8/19-20); Full Atk Pistol +9 (1d8+1/20/x4) and Quick Draw Knife +5 (1d4/19-20) or Pistol +7/+7 (due to Rapid Shot) (1d8+1/20/x4); SA Deadly Aim, Point-Blank Shot, Precise Shot; SQ Grit points 2; AL Lawful Good; SV Fort +4, Ref +6, Will +1; Str 10, Dex 18, Con 10, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 14.
Skills, Abilities, and Feats:
Diplomacy +7 (1 rank), Intimidate +9 (5 ranks), Knowledge (Local) +5 (5 ranks), Perception +9 (5 ranks), Sense Motive +7 (5 ranks); Gunsmith, Deadly Aim, Point-Blank Shot, Precise Shot, Rapid Shot, Quick Draw.
Special Attacks and Qualities:
Grit pool for special firearm abilities; Reduces certain firearm misfires through Engineer trait.
Possessions: Masterwork pistol, Light Crossbow, Quick Draw Knife, Studded Leather Armor, Adventurer’s Kit, 50 bullets, 50 gp.
The ‘Big Iron[1]’ build at level 10 is a powerful Gunslinger with a focus on all-out offense, leveraging their gunslinging skills enhanced by the Grand Marshal’s strategic abilities. Through the Mysterious Stranger archetype and Holy Gun paladin archetype synergies, the character delivers powerful attacks in combat, especially using Overwatch Style. The character excels in dealing significant damage with a pistol and controlling the battlefield, while maintaining some defensive capabilities and utility in skills such as Diplomacy and Intimidate.
Stat Block Level 10:
Gunslinger : male, Human Gunslinger 5/Grand Marshal 5; CR 10; Medium humanoid (human); HD 10d10; hp 80; Init +6; Spd 30 ft.; AC 19, touch 15, flat-footed 14; Base Atk +10; Grp +10; Atk +14 ranged (pistol, 1d8+3); Full Atk +14/+9 ranged (pistol, 1d8+3); SA Grit (3/day), Deadeye, Gunslinger Initiative, Mysterious Stranger’s Luck; SQ Gun Training, Fast Healing, Enhanced Charisma Skills (Grand Marshal); AL LG; SV Fort +5, Ref +11, Will +5; Str 10, Dex 20, Con 10, Int 12, Wis 10, Cha 14.
Skills, Abilities, and Feats:
Diplomacy +15, Intimidate +15, Knowledge (Local) +11, Perception +15, Sense Motive +12, Ride +9; Deadly Aim, Point-Blank Shot, Gunsmithing, Precise Shot, Rapid Shot, Quick Draw, Weapon Focus (Pistol), Overwatch Style.
Special Attacks and Qualities:
Grit allows special abilities through diverse grit-based actions; Deadeye provides precision in targeting; Gunslinger Initiative boosts initiative checks.
Possessions: Masterwork Pistol, Ammunition (40), Masterwork Leather Armor, Pistol of the Infinite Sky (eventual upgrade), various mundane travel and adventuring gear, 250 gold pieces.
This build features a Gunslinger using the Mysterious Stranger archetype, combined with a Paladin’s Holy Gun and the Grand Marshal prestige class. The focus is on delivering precise, high damage from pistols, utilizing feats like Overwatch Style and Rapid Shot for multiple attacks per round. Essential skills enhance combat and social interactions, making the character a formidable face for the party. Equipment like potentially the Pistol of the Infinite Sky, boosts their combat prowess further. Special abilities allow bypassing DR and gaining fast healing.
Stat Block Level 15:
Gunslinger: male, Human Gunslinger (Mysterious Stranger) 5/Grand Marshal 10/Paladin (Holy Gun) 5; CR 15; Medium Humanoid (Human); HD 15d10; hp 142; Init +8; Spd 30ft; AC 21, touch 17, flat-footed 14; Base Atk +14; Grp +14; Atk Pistol +24 (5d8+80/x4) or Rapid Shot; Full Atk Rapid Shot (5d8+80 x5) or Pistol +24 (5d8+80/x4); SA Grit, Smite Evil; SQ Divine Bond, Fast Healing, Judgement (bonus to attack and damage); AL Lawful Good; SV Fort +15, Ref +14, Will +10; Str 10, Dex 20, Con 10, Int 13, Wis 10, Cha 14.
Skills, Abilities, and Feats:
Diplomacy 15, Intimidate 15, Knowledge (Local) 15, Perception 15, Sense Motive 10, Survival 5, Ride 5, Stealth 5, Craft 5; Deadly Aim, Point-Blank Shot, Gunsmith, Precise Shot, Quick Draw, Rapid Shot, Weapon Focus (Pistol), Overwatch Style, Vital Strike, Overwatch Tactician, Improved Vital Strike, Extra Grit, Overwatch Vortex, Greater Vital Strike.
Special Attacks and Qualities:
Rapid Shot allows multiple attacks each round. Overwatch styles enhance attack precision and damage. Fast Healing boosts survival. Judgement augments combat abilities against foes.
Possessions: Masterwork Pistol (upgradable to Pistol of the Infinite Sky), assorted weaponry, armor, magical enhancements as appropriate.
The ‘Big Iron[1]’ build is a powerful Gunslinger focused on massive ranged damage output combined with some Paladin capabilities. The character excels in initiative, perception, and charisma based skills, especially in urban environments. Utilizing the Mysterious Stranger and Holy Gun archetypes along with the Grand Marshal prestige class, the build offers versatility, dealing up to 16d8+64 damage per round with its Divine Bond. The pistol, potentially upgraded to a Pistol of the Infinite Sky, is central to the character’s strategy, allowing for up to five attacks per round.
Stat Block Level 20:
Gunslinger: male, Human Gunslinger 5/Grand Marshal 10/Paladin 5; CR 20; Medium humanoid (human); HD 5d10 + 10d8 + 5d10; hp 180; Init +7; Spd 30 ft.; AC 25, touch 18, flat-footed 22; Base Atk +17; Grp +22; Atk Pistol +29/+24/+19/+14 (1d8+8/x4) or melee attack +20 (weapon-specific); Full Atk Pistol +29/+24/+19/+14 (1d8+8/x4) or multiple melee attacks +20 (weapon-specific); SA Deadly Aim, Precise Shot, Rapid Shot; SQ Initiative bonus, perception enhancements, faster healing, divine bond, damage reduction penetration; AL Lawful Good; SV Fort +19, Ref +18, Will +13; Str 10, Dex 20, Con 10, Int 13, Wis 10, Cha 14.
Skills, Abilities, and Feats:
Diplomacy +23, Intimidate +23, Knowledge (Local) +16, Perception +28, Sense Motive +21; Deadly Aim, Point-Blank Shot, Precise Shot, Quick Draw, Rapid Shot, Weapon Focus (Pistol), Vital Strike, Improved Vital Strike, Greater Vital Strike, Extra Grit, Overwatch Style, Overwatch Tactician, Overwatch Vortex.
Special Attacks and Qualities:
Grand Marshal urban bonuses, swift action judgment, fast healing, Divine Bond pistol upgrades.
Possessions: Masterwork Pistol (upgraded to Pistol of the Infinite Sky), assorted ammunition, enchanted armor, utility items as per campaign setting.
Milestones Of Character Development
- Levels 1-5: Building your foundation as a Gunslinger with key feats such as Deadly Aim, Point-Blank Shot, and Gunsmith. Quick Draw adds flexibility in combat situations.
- Levels 6-10: Transitioning towards becoming a Grand Marshal, gaining important attribute bonuses in urban settings. Rapid Shot increases attack capabilities while Weapon Focus (Pistol) enhances accuracy.
- Levels 11-15: Unleashing terrifying damage with Overwatch Style and Vital Strike. Improved Vital Strike comes into play, elevating your combat prowess. Additional abilities from the Holy Gun Archetype strengthen your divine abilities.
- Levels 16-20: Mastering combat with Extra Grit and Overwatch Vortex. Greater Vital Strike caps off your offensive progression. Utilize Divine Bond to maximize your Pistol of the Infinite Sky’s potential, making each shot a force to be reckoned with.
Core Abilities & Features
- Mysterious Stranger Archetype: This archetype replaces the traditional Gunslinger’s grit-dependent abilities with Charisma powered options, making our build uniquely flexible. Our focus shifts to leveraging the synergy between Charisma and Civic-based skills, which is crucial for the Paladin multiclass approach.
- Holy Gun Archetype: Integrating with Paladin, the Holy Gun archetype transforms firearms prowess into a divine force. Abilities that bypass evil creatures’ Damage Reduction set a fearsome standard. Through ‘Smite Evil’ with a pistol, combining divine wrath with firearm accuracy becomes a tactical edge against unrighteous foes.
- Grand Marshal Prestige Class: This class epitomizes leadership and lethality. Bonuses on Initiative and Perception in specific environments like urban settings ensure we get the drop on adversaries. The ability to swiftly judge[2] enemies translates into scalable bonuses on attack, damage, and access to fast healing. It’s the embodiment of a tactical enforcer, holding both prestige and dominance.
- Dexterity-Driven Combos: Optimal point allocation ensures Dexterity is the nucleus of both combat style and defense. Feats like Deadly Aim and Rapid Shot utilize this to maximize damage potential, rendering foes incapacitated while offering impressive action economy with options like Quick Draw.
- Strategic Feat Progression: Each planned feat up to level 19 is targeted at creating a heavily optimized gunslinger capable of taking down high-priority targets. Overwatch Style and its evolutions (Tactician and Vortex) provide breathtaking combat advantage, turning precision strikes into a dominant force in duels.
Equipment Progression
| Level Range | Equipment | Details |
|---|---|---|
| L1-5 | Pistol (Starting) | Begin with a free pistol. Prioritize crafting it into Masterwork as soon as possible to boost its functionality. |
| L6-10 | Masterwork Pistol | Enhance the pistol with magical enchantments from your local mage. Consider the Flaming or Frost property to increase damage output. |
| L11-15 | Pistol with Divine Bond | Utilize the Holy Gun abilities to further enhance your pistol. Aim for the Holy enchantment to deal extra damage to evil creatures, and incorporate Divine Bond bonuses for increased effectiveness. |
| L16-20 | Pistol of the Infinite Sky | If possible, upgrade your weapon with this powerful item. It removes the need for Rapid Reload and can transform into any magical range weapon you are proficient with, greatly enhancing versatility. |
Combat Scenarios
- Dungeon Crawls:
- In narrow dungeon corridors, maintain a tactical retreat plan. Use Quick Draw to react swiftly. Focus on enhancing your Perception to sense traps and hidden enemies. Vital Strike combined with Overwatch Style allows you to handle surprise foes effectively. Keep Diplomacy at the ready for potential NPC interactions.
- Open Fields:
- Leverage Rapid Shot for multiple attacks in open spaces. The Pistol of the Infinite Sky ensures you won’t run out of ammunition. Position yourself to benefit from Weapon Focus and Point-Blank Shot. Use Ride to gain tactical advantages, escaping if overwhelmed.
- Ambushes:
- When ambushed, rely on Reactionary to gain an edge in Initiative. Overwatch Style lets you assess and retaliate. Use Stealth to reposition if necessary. Quick Draw allows immediate action, and knowledge of the terrain aids in regaining control.
- Defensive Stands:
- Maximize Fast Healing from the Grand Marshal abilities to sustain in prolonged engagements. Use the environment to cover retreat paths. Overwatch Vortex provides area control, making it difficult for foes to penetrate your line.
- Urban Encounters:
- Urban settings enhance your Charisma skills. Use Diplomacy and Intimidate to navigate these scenarios. The Swift Action Judgment, combined with the unique bonuses in urban environments, allows domination in social and combat situations, ensuring control even amidst chaos.
Weaknesses & Counters
| Weakness | Counter |
|---|---|
| Misfire Risks | Engineer Trait helps reduce misfire chances. Additionally, acquire a Reliable Firearm Enchantment to lower misfire risks. |
| Weak in Close Combat | Multiclassing with Paladin offers melee capabilities, and feats like Quick Draw allows for immediate weapon switching. |
| Increased Ammunition Costs | Crafting skills can be used to produce ammunition cheaper, and use the Craft: Alchemy skill for creating cartridges. |
| Vulnerability without Cover | Strategize positioning in combat scenarios or use spells/equipment to create temporary cover. |
| Limited Spellcasting Abilities | Rely on ring of spell storing or scrolls for occasional spell utility. Collaborate with party spellcasters for support. |
Roleplaying
Stepping into the Shoes of the Big Iron[1] Gunslinger
This Gunslinger build isn’t just about shooting foes; it’s an opportunity to embody a character with resolve and principles. The Arizona Ranger archetype talks of justice in rugged lands. Picture yourself strolling into the saloon, the crowd parting as they see the big iron on your hip, whispers of Texas Red’s downfall trailing in your wake. Being this Gunslinger means playing a character that commands respect, instilling fear into outlaws with nothing more than a focused gaze and a well-aimed pistol.
The Mysterious Stranger archetype brings a unique lens to this role. Play into the enigma of your past. What brought you here, and who did you leave behind? Are you on a path of redemption, or is the outlaw in you yet to be tamed? Your dexterity isn’t just physical—it’s mental, outthinking foes in the shootouts and the bargains that might spare your life. When you face a moral dilemma, let that charm come into play. A quick wit and silver tongue could defuse a situation as swiftly as a bullet. Let the layers of your character evolve with each encounter, making gameplay rich and meaningful.
Harnessing Divine Justice with the Holy Gun
When you multiclass into a Holy Gun, you’re more than an enforcer; you become a vessel of divine retribution. Let your journey focus less on brute force and more on the inner conflict: the righteous call versus the sinner’s temptation. Tap into that smoldering faith, using your charismatic presence to convert foes into allies, or send them running in fear of divine wrath. You’re not just aggressive; you’re purposed, every shot a judgement. Spout sermons of justice to give morale, or impart tales of redemption, adding depth to your role beyond the battlefield.
The themes of sacrifice and conviction run deep here. Perhaps your Paladin mentor was slain, and you’ve vowed to continue their mission. This intertwines with the Grand Marshal prestige, layering your narrative. Whether you’re negotiating with the local sheriff or deciding the fate of a captured criminal, demonstrate a character torn yet decisive. This juxtaposition of unwavering law enforcement and personal sacrifice will immerse your party in a role that bursts with dynamic storytelling possibilities.
FAQ
What makes the Gunslinger[3] stand out in Pathfinder 1E?
The Gunslinger[3] excels in long-range attack capabilities and precision. They utilize firearms to deliver powerful shots, often critical hits. Their deeds, powered by grit, allow them to perform extraordinary feats in combat. The Gunslinger[3] requires careful ammunition management and a strategic approach to weapon maintenance. Unlike other classes, they bring a unique flair to combat, emphasizing skill over brute strength.
Is the Big Iron[1] a good choice for new players?
The Big Iron[1] Gunslinger can be a fantastic choice for new players. Its straightforward mechanics focus on strong ranged attacks and critical hits. The reliance on firearms simplifies their combat strategy, though buying ammo can be a challenge. Players learn resource management while enjoying the thrill of powerful shots. This build offers a taste of unique gameplay and introduces key Pathfinder concepts.
How does teamwork impact a Big Iron[1] Gunslinger?
A Big Iron[1] Gunslinger thrives in a team that complements their strengths. Tanks can protect them, allowing free targeting. Spellcasters can alter the battlefield to give better shooting angles. Rogues can create openings by flanking, increasing hit chances. Healers keep them in peak condition, ready for action. Team synergy can maximize their damage output and strategic impact.
What are the best skills to focus on for advancement?
Prioritize skills like Perception, which enhances your ability to spot hidden threats. Craft (firearms) is crucial for maintaining your weapons. Acrobatics helps in dodging attacks and maintaining mobility. Bluff can be useful for surprising opponents. Choose skills that enhance your combat effectiveness and survivability.
Why should I consider the Big Iron[1] build for my next campaign?
The Big Iron[1] build brings unmatched firepower and precision to any campaign. It offers an exciting gameplay experience with its unique firearm mechanics. You’ll enjoy the thrill of powerful long-range shots and critical hits. The build challenges you to manage resources and plan strategically.
Join us at Stellar Dragons with the Big Iron!
Could the Big Iron[1] be the ultimate Gunslinger build in Pathfinder 1E? Join the conversation on our Discord server: https://discord.gg/uAPvgEq6Z7. Try the Big Iron[1] in your next game and decide for yourself.
Authors
Terms definitions
1. ↑ Gunslinger – Big Iron – Pathfinder 1E ( Big Iron )
Big Iron
You knew this build was coming, do not lie to me. We are going after Texas Red and our Arizona Ranger will bring him back alive or maybe dead. No one will dare to make a slip, for we have a big iron on our hip. We are taking the Mysterious Stranger Archetype, multiclassing into Paladin with the Holy Gun Archetype, and the Grand Marshal Prestige Class. Our leveling will look something like the following:
Classes
Gunslinger 5/Grand Marshal 10/Paladin 5
Race
Gotta go for Human here. That floating +2 goes into dex naturally.
Ability Scores
If Intelligence is odd, round it up, otherwise everything in Dexterity.
15Point-Buy
Str 10/Dex 18/Con 10/Int 10/Wis 10/Cha 14
20Point-Buy
Str 10/Dex 19/Con 10/Int 12/Wis 10/Cha 14
25Point-Buy
Str 10/Dex 20/Con 10/Int 13/Wis 10/Cha 14
Traits
Reactionary for that +2 to Initiative, and Engineer to reduce misfire if your firearm becomes broken.
Favored Class Bonus
Hit Points Hit Points Hit Points.
Skills
We need Diplomacy, Intimidate, Knowledge(Local), Perception and Sense Motive. Spare a few points for Survival and Ride for thematic reasons. Stealth too if you can afford it, and Craft because boy, we are pissing gold pieces per shot fired.
Feats by Level
1-Deadly Aim
Human Bonus-Point-Blank Shot Gunslinger Bonus-Gunsmith
3-Precise Shot Bonus
4-Quick Draw
5-Rapid Shot
7-Weapon Focus(Pistol)
9-Overwatch Style
11-Vital Strike
13-Overwatch Tactician
15-Improved Vital Strike
Holy Gun Bonus
16-Extra Grit
17-Overwatch Vortex
19-Greater Vital Strike
We are reaching truly terrifying damage levels once again, but this time in a duel, not from a sniping position, again via Overwatch Style and Vital Strike. We can also totally just attack five times a round if we wish so via Rapid Shot. Quick Draw is a prerequisite, but it’s also extremely thematic.
Grand Marshal
We get a bunch of bonuses on Initiative, Perceptions, Charisma skills when in our home country, doubly so when in Urban Environment, and we can judge our enemies as a swift action to get bonuses to attack, damage, even fast healing and such. Great stuff.
Starting Equipment
You start with a pistol for free. Keep that pistol until the end of the game as you can upgrade it to Masterwork and have your local mage enchant it(and you can further boost it via Divine Bond late game). Have your mage turn your pistol into a Pistol of the Infinite Sky if you are that terrified of not having rapid reload.
Final Thoughts on the Build
So, we can automatically bypass DR from evil creatures, deal some significant damage, yet act also as a face for the party, and our Big Iron keeps getting better and better through the levels. We are also fairly sturdy as we can gain Fast Healing.
Our damage each round is about 16d8+64 via our Divine Bond before any magic item. If you have our Pistol of the Infinite Sky, we can attack five times a round for 5d8+80 which is not bad at all.
We are using our Big Iron with great effect, and we can bring down even the most tenacious of foes in a few rounds only. Soon, they will beg to be taken alive instead of dead.
2. ↑ Vigilante – Judge – Pathfinder 1E ( judge )
The Judge
So, you wanted to play as close as possible to Judge Dredd huh? Wants to shoot a criminal in
the face with a crossbow, gets in his face, scream I am the Law! and leave with zero explanation?
Well, I have a build for you.
We’re taking the Faceless Enforcer Archetype along with two Prestige Classes, Justiciar and
Sentinel. Our Leveling should look like the following:
Levels
Vigilante (Faceless Enforcer) 7/Justiciar 3/Sentinel 10
Race
Go for Human with the Military Training Alternate Racial Trait(We will pick the Heavy Repeating
Crossbow) and get that floating +2 in Dex.
Ability Scores
Put everything in Dexterity
15Point-Buy
Str 10/Dex 17/Con 13/Int 10/Wis 10/Cha 14
20Point-Buy
Str 10/Dex 18/Con 14/Int 10/Wis 10/Cha 14
25Point-Buy
Str 14/Dex 18/Con 14/Int 10/Wis 10/Cha 14
Traits
Armor Expert reduces our Armor Penalty, Tusked gives us a Bite attack if we ever get into
melee.
Favored Class Bonus
HP.
Skills
So, we will need Knowledge(Religion), Knowledge(Local), Diplomacy, Intimidate,
Profession(Judge), Perception and Sense Motive.
Feats by Level
1-Deadly Aim
3-Point-Blank Shot
Bonus 4-Weapon Focus(Heavy Crossbow)
5-Precise Shot
7-Persuasive
9-Deific Obedience(Abadar)
11-Rapid Shot
Bonus 12-Vital Strike
13-Improved Vital Strike
15-Overwatch Tactician
17-Greater Vital Strike
Bonus 17-Overwatch Vortex
19-Rapid Reload(Heavy Repeating Crossbow)
Social Talents by Level
1-Owl’s Sight
3-Always Prepared
7-Many Guises
Vigilante Talents by Level
4-Signature Weapon
Equipment
Get yourself a Heavy Repeating Crossbow and the best armor you can get and don’t forget the
helmet.
Final Thoughts on the Build
You are capable of downright insane damage with that Crossbow of yours, and you can Dictum people you hit with your bolts. On top of that, your social skills are top notch and you remain versatile enough that people won’t bother you when not in service as The Law.
3. ↑ 2024 The Honorable Mentions – The Gunslinger – Pathfinder 1E ( the Gunslinger )
Categories: Pathfinder 1E Character Builds
The Gunslinger
They all laughed at him. “The fastest shot in the world”. A juggler and a bard, claiming to be the fastest shot in the world? A ridiculous claim. The mysterious man had walked into the saloon and made that claim boldly after giving his evening performance, which was admittedly impressive, but there was a limit at the theatrics. He sported four pistols, two at his hips, two strapped to his chest. It was ridiculous.
The mysterious man smiled at their laughter. He had kept vengeance toward this town, which he was banned from twenty years ago now, burning his heart and tonight, he had a last performance to give, he thought, caressing the hammer of one of his pistols…
This build is painfully close to making the Top 10, but doesn’t quite make it for 2 reasons:
1-There is a ridiculous FAQ Errata that power nerfs a certain ability to the ground. Now, FAQ and Errata are always subject to GM review, and this one in particular is usually wildly disregarded by most Game Masters, but it is unfortunately a concern that, combined with the second element makes it just miss the Top 10.
2-The other reason being that it is a gunslinger build. Guns are a hit or miss for many GMs and even if they are canonical within Pathfinder’s official setting, Golarion, many GM will use the regional excuse to heavily limit them. And because of these two factors this build misses on being on my top 10. Unfortunate as it is this build truly is a very fun one that I can only highly recommend for a Gunslinging enthousiast!
Race
Human with the Military Tradition Alternative Racial Feature
Class
Battle Host Occultist 1/Mysterious Stranger Gunslinger 1/Trench Fighter 3/Bard Juggler 7/Luring Musketeer Cavalier 8
Traits
Both are open to grab, have fun kids!
Ability Scores
As a Gunslinger, this will probably shock you, but we need Dexterity. We also need Charisma and some amount of Intelligence for our first Level.
15Point-Buy
Str 10/Dex 17/Con 10/Int 13/Wis 10/Cha 14
20Point-Buy
Str 10/Dex 18/Con 10/Int 13/Wis 10/Cha 15
25Point-Buy
Str 10/Dex 18/Con 12/Int 13/Wis 10/Cha 16
Favored Class Bonus
Yep, it is, in fact, HP. Don’t look at me like that, our Con sucks.
Skills
Perception and Sleight of Hands are mandatory for this build. Everything else is gravy so have fun! Take Acrobatics if you want better mobility, various Social Skills to be a decent face, Survival for the gritty, mysterious stranger feel, etc.
Feats by Level
1-Point-Blank Shot
Human Bonus-Exotic Weapon Proficiency(Pistols, Rifles)
Bonus 2-Gunsmithing
3-Precise Shot
Bonus 3-Two Weapons Fighting
Bonus 4-Rapid Reload(Pistols)
5-Deadly Aim
Bonus 6-Deflect Arrow
7-Rapid Shot
9-Improved Two Weapons Fighting
Bonus 10-Snatch Arrow
11-Dodge
Bonus 13-Teamwork Feat of your Choice
13-Mobility
15-Leaping Shot Deed
Bonus 16-Rapid Reload(Rifles)
17-Deft Shootist Deed
Bonus 18-Weapon Focus(Pistols)
19-Greater Two-Weapons Fighting
Precise Shot is pretty much mandatory for any ranged build and so is Deadly Aim. We get Rapid Reload for two types of firearms so that’s fun, we have all three Two-Weapons Fighting main feats, and with Leaping Shot Deed and Deft Shootist Deed, we no longer provoke when shooting in melee and we can move and shoot all our firearms we are wielding(4 due to juggling) as we move which significantly improves our mobility in battle.
Equipment
We start, for free, with a Masterwork Pistol that is immune to the Broken Condition. Which means we don’t fear misfiring at all with that weapon. Which is the FAQ problem I mentioned. So we are free to do whatever we wish with our starting money. Eventually we will want a second Pistol of some sort, and even a third and fourth ones for when we multiclass into Bard. Do consider a Rifle for variances or when you do need some extreme range. You can get away with wearing a Chainshirt as your main armor with no problem.
Final Thoughts on the Build
As per usual you get your Dex to damage, on top of your 8 Attacks per round if you stay immobile, 4 if you move, you can snatch projectiles shot at you, you get extra AC behind cover, you count as having Improved Critical with your firearms, you attack against Touch AC within two Range Increments, ignore range penalty up to three range increments, can cast Spells, have Evasion, a bunch of skills, can spend Grit to add your Charisma modifier to all your damage rolls within a round, and on top of all of that you get to choose a Cavalier’s Order and get to add even more bonuses when Challenging someone. This build can deal some tremendous damage at range while still being extremely mobile and having quite a few backup options. This is a ridiculously good build.
Level | Class | HD | Feats | Special Abilities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Occultist | 8+Con | Point-Blank Shot, Exotic Weapon Proficiency(Pistols, Rifles) | Knacks, Panoply Bond(Transmutation), Focus Powers, Mental Focus |
2 | Gunslinger | 1d10+Con | Gunsmithing | Grit, Deeds (Focused Aim, Deadeye, Gunslinger’s Dodge) |
3 | Fighter | 1d10+Con | Precise Shot, Two-Weapons Fighting | – |
4 | Fighter | 1d10+Con | Rapid Reload(Pistols) | Bravery +1 |
5 | Fighter | 1d10+Con | Deadly Aim | Trench Warfare |
6 | Bard | 1d8+Con | Deflect Arrow | Fast Reactions, Cantrips, Bardic Music (Fascinate, Inspire Courage +1, Distraction, Countersong) |
7 | Bard | 1d8+Con | Rapid Shot | Combat Juggling, Evasion |
8 | Bard | 1d8+Con | – | Inspire Competence +2 |
9 | Bard | 1d8+Con | Improved Two-Weapons Fighting | – |
10 | Bard | 1d8+Con | Snatch Arrow | Inspire Courage +2 |
11 | Bard | 1d8+Con | Dodge | Suggestion |
12 | Bard | 1d8+Con | – | Inspire Competence +3 |
13 | 1d10+Con | Mobility, 1 Teamwork Feat of your Choice | Far Challenge 1/Day, Gifted Firearm, Order, Tactician | |
14 | 1d10+Con | – | Order Ability | |
15 | 1d10+Con | Leaping Shot Deed | Careful Aim | |
16 |
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