Gunslinger 5e
Fighters specializing in firearms with trick shots and quick-draw expertise. Created by Matt Mercer, Gunslingers are precision strikers who risk firearm misfires for devastating attacks.
At a Glance
Hit Die
d10
Primary Ability
Dexterity
Saving Throws
Strength, Constitution
Armor
All armor, shields
Weapons
Simple weapons, martial weapons, firearms
Key Features
| Feature | Level | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Firearm Proficiency | 3rd | Proficiency with firearms and ability to craft/repair them with tinker's tools. |
| Grit | 3rd | Pool of points equal to WIS modifier (minimum 1) for trick shots. Regain on kill or short rest. |
| Trick Shots | 3rd | Spend grit to perform special attacks: Disarming Shot, Deadeye Shot, Forceful Shot, etc. Learn more as you level. |
| Quickdraw | 7th | Add proficiency bonus to initiative and can stow/draw firearms freely. |
| Rapid Repair | 10th | Fix misfired firearm as bonus action by spending grit. |
| Lightning Reload | 15th | Reload any firearm as bonus action. |
Subclasses
| Subclass | Source | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Gunslinger | Critical Role | This is the subclass itself - fighter martial archetype focused on firearms combat |
Common Mistakes
Common Mistake
Not tracking firearm misfire scores - each gun has a misfire property that can jam it
Common Mistake
Forgetting you need to reload firearms (various action costs depending on weapon)
Common Mistake
Missing that grit refreshes on short rest or when you score a killing blow
Common Mistake
Not managing ammo and repair costs - firearms require tinker's tools to fix
DM Tips
DM Tip
This is unofficial Matt Mercer content - confirm which version and whether firearms are allowed in your setting
DM Tip
Firearm damage can be high but misfires add risk/reward balance
DM Tip
Trick Shots are limited by grit points (WIS modifier) so they're a finite resource
DM Tip
Requires tinker's tools, materials, and downtime to craft ammunition and repair
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & Further Reading
- Fighter (Gunslinger) — D&D 5e Wikidot — Full SRD class text
- Fighter (Gunslinger) — D&D Beyond — Official class reference
- Fighter (Gunslinger) Guide — RPGBOT — Class optimization guide