How Many Maneuvers Do Battlemasters Get?
The Battle Master fighter subclass is a popular and powerful choice in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition, largely due to its access to combat maneuvers. But how many of these maneuvers do they actually get? A Battle Master fighter gains access to three maneuvers at 3rd level, and learns additional maneuvers as they level up in the fighter class. They eventually possess a total of nine maneuvers at 15th level.
Understanding Battle Master Maneuvers
Battle Master maneuvers are special combat actions that allow fighters of this subclass to control the battlefield, debuff enemies, and enhance their attacks in a variety of ways. They add a layer of tactical depth to the fighter class, making them a valuable asset to any adventuring party.
Battle Master Maneuver Progression
The number of maneuvers a Battle Master fighter knows directly correlates with their fighter level. Here’s a breakdown:
- 3rd Level: 3 Maneuvers
- 7th Level: 5 Maneuvers
- 10th Level: 6 Maneuvers
- 15th Level: 9 Maneuvers
This progression ensures that the Battle Master’s tactical options increase as they gain experience and face more challenging encounters. This is also a crucial consideration during character creation and level-up planning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about Battle Master maneuvers, designed to provide a more in-depth understanding of this subclass:
H3 What are Combat Superiority Dice?
Combat Superiority Dice are special dice used to power Battle Master maneuvers. These dice are added to the attack roll or damage roll of the maneuver, or used to impose debilitating effects on an enemy. The size of these dice also increases as the Battle Master levels up.
H3 What size are the Combat Superiority Dice?
At 3rd level, Combat Superiority Dice are d8s. At 7th level, they increase to d10s, and at 15th level, they become d12s. This progression amplifies the impact of the Battle Master’s maneuvers as they advance.
H3 How many Combat Superiority Dice do Battle Masters get?
Battle Masters start with four Combat Superiority Dice at 3rd level. This number increases to five dice at 7th level, and finally to six dice at 15th level.
H3 How do Battle Masters regain Combat Superiority Dice?
A Battle Master regains expended Combat Superiority Dice after finishing a short or long rest. This makes resource management crucial, as players will need to consider the frequency of rests during their adventures.
H3 Do Battle Masters have to choose different maneuvers each time they level up?
No. While many players opt to diversify their maneuver selection for maximum versatility, Battle Masters can choose the same maneuver multiple times. However, the benefits of choosing the same maneuver again are usually limited.
H3 Can I change my maneuvers after I choose them?
Yes, to a limited extent. Whenever you gain a level in the fighter class, you can choose one of the maneuvers you know and replace it with another maneuver that you could learn at that level. This allows you to adapt your fighting style to changing campaign dynamics.
H3 What is the save DC for Battle Master maneuvers?
The save DC for Battle Master maneuvers is calculated as follows: 8 + your proficiency bonus + your Strength or Dexterity modifier (your choice). This means that as the Battle Master’s proficiency bonus increases and their Strength or Dexterity score improves, the harder it becomes for enemies to resist their maneuvers.
H3 Do maneuvers stack with other effects?
Yes, unless explicitly stated otherwise. Maneuvers are designed to complement other abilities and spells, allowing for powerful combinations and strategic plays. For example, a Battle Master can use the “Trip Attack” maneuver to knock an enemy prone, granting advantage to subsequent attacks from allies.
H3 What are some of the best Battle Master maneuvers?
This is subjective and depends on your playstyle, but some consistently powerful maneuvers include:
- Riposte: Allows you to make an attack against an enemy who misses you in melee.
- Trip Attack: Knocks an enemy prone, granting advantage to melee attacks.
- Disarming Attack: Forces an enemy to drop a held item.
- Commander’s Strike: Allows an ally to make an additional attack.
- Goading Attack: Forces a creature to attack only you for their next turn.
The best maneuvers depend heavily on the party composition and the type of encounters faced.
H3 Can I use multiple maneuvers on the same attack?
No. You can only apply one maneuver per attack, unless a specific maneuver states otherwise. This limitation prevents Battle Masters from becoming overwhelmingly powerful and encourages strategic maneuver selection.
H3 Do Battle Master maneuvers work with ranged attacks?
Yes, many maneuvers can be used with ranged attacks. Some examples include:
- Distracting Strike: Gives the next attack against the target advantage.
- Pushing Attack: Pushes a creature away from you.
- Precision Attack: Adds your superiority die to your attack roll.
Always check the specific description of the maneuver to confirm its applicability to ranged attacks.
H3 Can I use a maneuver on a critical hit?
Yes, you can use a maneuver on a critical hit. The extra damage dice from the critical hit are rolled in addition to the Combat Superiority Die. This makes critical hits even more devastating when combined with the right maneuver.
H3 If an enemy is immune to being frightened, can I still use the “Menacing Attack” maneuver?
No. If a creature is immune to the frightened condition, the Menacing Attack maneuver will have no effect. This highlights the importance of understanding enemy vulnerabilities and selecting appropriate maneuvers accordingly. However, you still add the combat superiority die to the damage of the attack.
H3 Are there any feats that synergize well with the Battle Master subclass?
Yes. A few feats that can greatly enhance a Battle Master’s effectiveness include:
- Martial Adept: Grants you two maneuvers and one superiority die, making it a useful dip for other classes or if your DM allows feats at level 1.
- Fighting Initiate: Provides you with a Fighting Style from the fighter class.
- Lucky: Allows you to reroll attack rolls, saving throws, or ability checks, providing an extra layer of reliability.
These feats can expand your tactical options and improve your overall performance.
H3 Can I multiclass and still benefit from the Battle Master subclass?
Yes, multiclassing can be a viable option, but it requires careful planning. Dipping into classes like Rogue (for Expertise and Sneak Attack) or Paladin (for Divine Smite) can offer interesting synergies. However, multiclassing will slow down your Battle Master maneuver progression, so it’s important to consider the trade-offs. Ensure that the other class choice complements your overall build and playstyle.
Conclusion
The Battle Master fighter subclass offers a compelling blend of martial prowess and tactical flexibility. Understanding the number of maneuvers they gain, how those maneuvers function, and how to effectively utilize them is key to maximizing the potential of this powerful subclass. Remember to carefully consider your maneuver choices, manage your Combat Superiority Dice wisely, and leverage the subclass’s unique abilities to dominate the battlefield.