Khajiit Claws in Skyrim: One-Handed Weapon or Natural Born Killer?
Do Khajiit claws count as one-handed in Skyrim? The short answer is no, Khajiit claws do not count as one-handed weapons in the traditional sense within the game. They are treated as unarmed attacks, benefiting from specific perks and enchantments that enhance unarmed combat, rather than those designed for one-handed weaponry. While a Khajiit’s claws can certainly make them a formidable combatant, understanding the mechanics of how they work is crucial for building an effective character. Let’s dive deeper into the intricacies of Khajiit claws and how they function in the world of Skyrim.
Unarmed Combat vs. One-Handed Weapons: A Critical Distinction
The fundamental difference lies in how the game categorizes and handles these forms of attack. One-handed weapons, such as swords, maces, and axes, are governed by the One-Handed skill tree, which offers perks that increase damage, attack speed, and critical hit chance when wielding such weapons. Khajiit claws, on the other hand, operate under the radar, influencing a more nuanced form of combat.
The Power of the Paws: How Khajiit Claws Function
Khajiit claws provide a flat damage bonus to your unarmed attacks. This bonus stacks with other effects that enhance unarmed damage, such as the Fists of Steel perk (from the Heavy Armor skill tree) or the Pugilist Gloves, found in the Ratway of Riften.
- Base Damage: All races have a base unarmed damage, with Khajiit and Argonians having a higher natural base damage.
- Racial Bonus: Khajiit get a racial bonus to unarmed damage, effectively enhancing their natural claws. This is a significant advantage for anyone considering an unarmed build.
- Unarmed Perks: Although the One-Handed skill tree is irrelevant, other perks such as those found in the Heavy Armor tree, as well as certain enchantments can enhance the capabilities of the claws.
Building a Khajiit Unarmed Warrior: The Path to Pummelling
If you’re interested in creating a Khajiit character who relies on their claws, there are specific strategies and skills to prioritize:
- Heavy Armor: The Fists of Steel perk is essential, as it adds the armor rating of your gauntlets to your unarmed damage. High-quality gauntlets become your primary weapon.
- Enchanting: Enchantments that boost unarmed damage are critical. Look for enchantments that increase unarmed damage or fortify your Heavy Armor skill.
- Alchemy: Alchemy can provide powerful buffs that enhance your combat prowess. Potions that increase your Heavy Armor skill, your damage, and your health are vital.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Khajiit Claws
Let’s address some common questions about Khajiit claws and their place in the Skyrim universe.
1. What is the base unarmed damage for a Khajiit in Skyrim?
Khajiit unarmed base combat damage is 22, broken down into a base damage of 10 (which Argonians also share, while other races have 4) and a racial ability bonus of 12.
2. Do Khajiit claws stack with werewolf form?
No, Khajiit claws do not stack with werewolf form. Werewolf form has its own base damage, and racial bonuses like Khajiit claws are superseded.
3. Can a Khajiit be a werewolf?
Yes, a Khajiit can become a werewolf in Skyrim.
4. Are Khajiit good archers in Skyrim?
Yes, Khajiit are good archers due to their starting bonuses to Sneak and Archery, combined with their Night Eye ability.
5. What is the best class for a Khajiit in Skyrim?
The “best” class depends on your playstyle, but a Toxicologist build, focusing on Alchemy to buff combat abilities, complements the Khajiit’s racial advantages.
6. Can a Khajiit be a warrior focused on melee combat?
Yes, but it is important to note that Khajiit don’t begin with any bonuses to armor. The most skilled Khajiit warriors will want to train in light and heavy armor early.
7. Are Khajiit claws retractable?
Yes, Khajiit have retractable claws that aid in climbing and are a natural weapon.
8. What is the best race for an unarmed build in Skyrim?
Khajiit is considered the best race for an unarmed build, thanks to their inherent claw damage bonus.
9. Do gloves affect Khajiit claws?
Yes, gloves can affect Khajiit claws. Specifically, Heavy Armor gauntlets with the Fists of Steel perk add their armor rating to your unarmed damage. The Pugilist Gloves also directly increase unarmed damage.
10. What is the fastest swinging one-handed weapon in Skyrim?
Daggers are the fastest-swinging one-handed weapons in Skyrim, although they deal the lowest damage.
11. What are the best enchantments for a Khajiit unarmed build?
Enchantments that increase unarmed damage or fortify your Heavy Armor skill are the best for a Khajiit unarmed build.
12. Can a Khajiit tank in Skyrim?
Yes, a Khajiit can be an effective tank. While they don’t have innate bonuses to armor skills, they can utilize Heavy Armor and other skills to build a strong tank.
13. What one-handed weapons are considered the strongest in Skyrim?
Some of the strongest one-handed weapons include Windshear, Chillrend, Dragonbone Mace, and Dragonbone Sword.
14. What is the strongest melee race in Skyrim?
Orcs are often considered the strongest melee race due to their Berserker Rage ability, which doubles damage dealt and halves damage taken for a short time.
15. How does the Fists of Steel perk affect Khajiit claws?
The Fists of Steel perk adds the armor rating of your Heavy Armor gauntlets to your unarmed damage. This is a significant boost for a Khajiit using their claws. This makes a considerable difference in combat, particularly at higher levels when combined with high-quality, enchanted gauntlets.
Mastering the Khajiit Claw: Beyond the Basics
Creating a truly effective Khajiit unarmed build requires understanding not only the mechanics but also the nuances of gameplay. Here are some advanced tips for maximizing your Khajiit’s potential:
- Sneak Attacks: Combine your unarmed skills with stealth for devastating sneak attacks. The inherent Sneak bonus that Khajiit characters receive can make them exceptionally dangerous in the shadows.
- Power Attacks: Utilize power attacks for increased damage and staggering potential. Master the timing to disrupt enemy attacks and control the flow of combat.
- Roleplaying: Embrace the Khajiit culture and backstory to enhance your immersion. Consider their affinity for stealth, trade, and agility when making decisions and interacting with the world.
The world of Skyrim is your playground, and Khajiit claws are just one of many tools you can use to shape your adventure. For those interested in the intersection of gaming and learning, resources such as Games Learning Society can provide valuable insights. This organization explores how games can be used in educational settings and offers valuable research on the impact of gaming on cognitive and social development. For more information, visit GamesLearningSociety.org.
By understanding the mechanics and embracing the role-playing opportunities, you can create a truly unique and powerful Khajiit character who conquers Skyrim with nothing but their claws.