Subclass Spells and the Artificer’s Spell-Storing Item: A Deep Dive
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Yes, you absolutely can use subclass spells with the Artificer’s Spell-Storing Item. While the feature explicitly states you can only choose spells from the artificer spell list, subclass spells are considered part of that list for you. This means that if your subclass, like the Battlesmith or Armorer, grants you access to specific spells, these are valid choices for your Spell-Storing Item. This crucial detail significantly broadens the utility of the feature, allowing for more strategic flexibility.
Understanding the Spell-Storing Item
Before we delve further, let’s clarify how the Spell-Storing Item works. This Artificer feature allows you to store a 1st or 2nd-level spell from your class list into an object. The spell remains stored until it’s been used a number of times equal to twice your Intelligence modifier (minimum of twice) or until you replace it with another spell. A creature holding the object can then produce the spell’s effect, and if the spell requires concentration, the creature must concentrate. It is important to note that using the item is not considered casting a spell, meaning it cannot be counterspelled.
Why Subclass Spells Matter
The inclusion of subclass spells with the Spell-Storing Item is a vital consideration. Without it, your options would be limited to a relatively small list of general Artificer spells. However, subclasses like the Battlesmith grant access to combat-oriented spells that significantly enhance their melee capabilities, while subclasses like the Armorer provide spells focused on defense and utility. Allowing these subclass spells greatly boosts the versatility and effectiveness of the Spell-Storing Item.
Example: Battlesmith and Cure Wounds
For instance, a Battlesmith Artificer gains access to Cure Wounds as a subclass spell. While this spell is available on the Artificer list, the Battlesmith ensures its inclusion. With the Spell-Storing Item, the Battlesmith can imbue a weapon with Cure Wounds, allowing their Steel Defender to administer healing or a fellow party member to deliver targeted healing during combat. This adaptability and tactical advantage makes the Spell-Storing Item a much more powerful tool.
Related Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does using a Spell-Storing Item count as casting a spell?
No. The creature using the item is producing the spell’s effect, but not casting it. This distinction means that effects such as Counterspell, which specifically target spell casting, do not work against the Spell-Storing Item.
2. Can you upcast spells with the Spell-Storing Item?
No, a strict reading of the feature does not allow upcasting. The feature specifies a 1st or 2nd-level spell from the Artificer spell list. Upcasting involves using a higher-level spell slot, and the Spell-Storing Item feature does not involve spell slots at all.
3. What happens if the stored spell requires concentration?
If the spell stored in the item requires concentration, the creature using the item must concentrate to maintain the spell’s effect.
4. How many times can a spell be used from the Spell-Storing Item?
A spell can be used a number of times equal to twice your Intelligence modifier (minimum of twice), or until you use the feature again to store a new spell in the item.
5. Can you use a Ring of Spell Storing to store spells for the Spell-Storing Item?
No. The Ring of Spell Storing is a completely separate magic item with its own mechanics. It cannot be used to fuel or interact with the Spell-Storing Item feature.
6. Does the Ring of Spell Storing use spell slots?
Yes. When you cast a spell from a Ring of Spell Storing, it uses the slot level, spell save DC, spell attack bonus, and spellcasting ability of the original caster who placed the spell in the ring.
7. Can familiars cast spells with a Ring of Spell Storing?
Yes. Familiars can cast spells from a Ring of Spell Storing without needing to consider complex attunement rules.
8. Can you attune to multiple Rings of Spell Storing?
No. A creature can’t attune to more than one copy of the same item, including Rings of Spell Storing.
9. Can Warlocks effectively use a Ring of Spell Storing?
Warlocks are often considered the least effective users of the Ring of Spell Storing because they have limited control over what level spell slot they use, making it difficult to manage what spells to store in the ring.
10. Can you cast two leveled spells in the same turn if one is from an item?
You can’t cast two leveled spells during the same turn, unless one of the spells is a cantrip with a casting time of 1 action. Even if one is from a magic item.
11. Is the Battlesmith the best Artificer subclass?
The Battlesmith is frequently regarded as a top-tier Artificer subclass, blending class strengths with unique inventions. However, the “best” is subjective and depends on your playstyle.
12. Can Artificers craft and use guns?
Yes. Artificers gain proficiency with Renaissance-era Firearms at 1st level and can craft them using various tool proficiencies.
13. Does using a magic wand count as casting a spell?
Yes, using a magic wand counts as casting a spell. It utilizes the “Use an Object” action, not spellcasting.
14. Can Artificers change their cantrips easily?
Artificers can only change their cantrips when they gain a level, and even then, only one cantrip at a time.
15. Can a Paladin effectively use a Ring of Spell Storing?
Paladins can use a Ring of Spell Storing, but they must supply components for the spells stored within. This can be challenging during combat due to hand restrictions from wielding weapons and shields, making them less efficient than full spellcasters in this regard.