Swashbuckler (Thief Kit)¶
This rogue is part acrobat, part fighter, and part wit: the epitome of charm and grace.
Advantages¶
- +1 AC at 1st level, additional +1 AC every 5 levels.
- +1 to-hit and damage every 5 levels.
- May Specialize (two slots) in any melee weapon available to Thieves.
- May place 3 slots into Two-Weapon Style.
Disadvantages¶
- May not backstab.
- May not perform sneak attacks or crippling strikes.
When to pick it¶
- The only Thief kit that may Specialize in melee weapons — at high levels the Swashbuckler matches Fighter damage with rogue agility.
- AC and to-hit bonuses scale beautifully into late game; the trade is giving up the burst damage of backstab.
Source: iwdee/original_manuals/IWDEE - Mastering Melee & Magic.pdf — "Swashbuckler (Thief Kit)".