Gnome Battle Master Fighter Build Guide
Why Battle Master?
The Gnome Battle Master Fighter combines Gnome's racial traits with the Battle Master's specialized features. As a Controller, this build excels in combat with a unique twist from the Battle Master archetype.
Key features include Combat Superiority, Student of War, Know Your Enemy. With STR or DEX as the primary ability at 15, this build maximizes the Fighter's core strengths.
Battle Master Features
Combat Superiority
Level 3You have honed your martial techniques through extensive training. You learn special techniques called maneuvers that are powered by dice called Superiority Dice. Maneuvers: You learn three maneuvers of your choice from the Maneuver Options section below. Many maneuvers enhance an attack. You can use only one maneuver per attack. You learn two additional maneuvers of your choice at 7th, 10th, and 15th level. Whenever you learn new maneuvers, you can also replace one maneuver you know with another. Superiority Dice: You have 4 Superiority Dice, which are d8s. A Superiority Die is expended when you use it. You regain all expended Superiority Dice when you finish a Short or Long Rest. You gain additional Superiority Dice as you gain fighter levels, as shown in the Superiority Dice column of the Fighter table. Over 7th level (5 dice) and 15th level (6 dice). Saving Throws: If a maneuver requires a saving throw, the DC equals 8 + your Strength or Dexterity modifier (your choice) + your Proficiency Bonus.
Student of War
Level 3You gain proficiency with one artisan's tool of your choice, and you gain proficiency with one skill of your choice that is available to fighters at 1st level.
Know Your Enemy
Level 7As a Bonus Action, you can discern certain strengths and weaknesses of a creature you can see within 30 feet of yourself. If the creature has levels in the Fighter class, you learn nothing from this ability. For 1 minute, you have advantage on attack rolls against the creature, and you gain the following benefits: You have advantage on Wisdom (Insight) checks to discern the creature's alignment and state of mind. You discern if the creature is a spell caster.
Improved Combat Superiority
Level 10Your Superiority Dice increase in size from d8s to d10s.
Relentless
Level 15When you roll initiative and have no Superiority Dice remaining, you regain 1 Superiority Die.
Ultimate Combat Superiority
Level 18Your Superiority Dice increase in size from d10s to d12s.
Recommended Ability Scores
Gnome Traits That Benefit Battle Master Fighter
Gnomish Cunning
Extra saving throw advantages protect against debilitating spells and effects.
Darkvision
Gnome Darkvision helps Fighters scout ahead and fight in darkness without needing a torch.
Combat Effectiveness
| Level | HP | Melee DPR | Ranged DPR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 5 | 39 | 7.8 | 7.8 |
| Level 11 | 81 | 10.73 | 10.73 |
| Level 17 | 123 | 10.73 | 10.73 |
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
- ♦ Battle Master grants Combat Superiority at level 3
- ♦ High hit points for frontline durability
- ♦ Darkvision for dungeon exploration
- ♦ Strong melee damage output
- ♦ Good armor class and initiative
Weaknesses
- ♦ Low Wisdom — vulnerable to common saving throws
- ♦ Limited ranged and magical options without multiclassing
- ♦ Small size limits heavy weapon usage
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Frequently Asked Questions
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