bg3 hand crossbow location

A Guide to Hand Crossbow Locations in Baldur's Gate 3

Table of Contents

Introduction: The Allure of the Hand Crossbow

Chapter 1: Early Game Acquisition in Act I

Chapter 2: Notable Upgrades and Special Finds

Chapter 3: The Power of Dual Wielding and Feats

Chapter 4: Strategic Considerations and Build Synergy

Conclusion: Mastering the Art of the Hand Crossbow

Introduction: The Allure of the Hand Crossbow

The hand crossbow in Baldur's Gate 3 is more than a simple ranged weapon; it is a cornerstone for powerful character builds, particularly for those specializing in dual-wielding ranged combat. Its unique property of being a light, one-handed ranged weapon allows characters to make an off-hand attack as a bonus action, effectively doubling their potential damage output per round. This guide details the precise locations where these valuable weapons can be found, moving beyond simple listings to explore the strategic implications of each acquisition. Securing a reliable pair of hand crossbows early can dramatically alter a party's combat effectiveness, enabling builds that consistently apply damage, status effects, and control from a safe distance.

Chapter 1: Early Game Acquisition in Act I

The search for hand crossbows begins almost immediately upon leaving the Nautiloid. One of the most reliable and early sources is the Goblin Camp, located in the Shattered Sanctum. Numerous goblin enemies, particularly the goblin archers positioned on the wooden ramparts and bridges, are equipped with standard Hand Crossbows. Defeating them is a straightforward method of obtaining one or two basic models. A more guaranteed, though confrontational, method involves the character Brem in the Zhentarim Hideout. Found in the Shattered Sanctum before he relocates, Brem sells a basic Hand Crossbow. Alternatively, completing the "Find the Missing Shipment" quest for the Zhentarim can grant access to their hideout where he continues his trade.

Another significant opportunity presents itself during the exploration of the Sunlit Wetlands and the Putrid Bog. The wooden tollhouse guarded by the bandits Anders and Cyrel contains a Heavy Chest on its upper floor. Picking the lock of this chest or defeating the bandits for the key yields a +1 Hand Crossbow, a substantial upgrade over the standard version. This weapon provides a valuable accuracy and damage boost at a low level. For those who venture into the Underdark via the Whispering Depths, the Sussur Tree area holds a corpse near the tree's roots with a standard Hand Crossbow, offering an alternative path for acquisition.

Chapter 2: Notable Upgrades and Special Finds

As the adventure progresses into the latter parts of Act I and beyond, more specialized and powerful hand crossbows become available. A standout weapon is the Hellfire Hand Crossbow, obtainable from the diabolist NPC Fytz the Firecracker in the Lower City of Baldur's Gate during Act III. This crossbow not only carries a +2 enchantment but also allows the wielder to cast the Scorching Ray spell once per long rest, adding significant burst damage potential. While a late-game find, it represents the pinnacle of raw power for this weapon type.

For builds focusing on control and utility, the Ne'er Misser is an exceptional and unique acquisition. Sold by the sinister quartermaster Araj Oblodra in Moonrise Towers during Act II, this +2 hand crossbow replaces its physical ammunition with a magical force projectile, ensuring it never misses due to non-magical immunity. Its true power, however, lies in its unique action: it can cast the Magic Missile spell once per short rest, providing a guaranteed hit option to finish off weakened enemies or break enemy concentration. This weapon shifts the hand crossbow from a pure damage tool to a versatile tactical asset.

Chapter 3: The Power of Dual Wielding and Feats

Locating a second hand crossbow is as crucial as finding the first. The true mechanical strength of this weapon type is unlocked when a character wields one in each hand. This setup allows for a primary attack action with the main-hand crossbow, followed by a bonus action attack with the off-hand crossbow. This effectively grants an extra attack each round from the very first character level, a feature that normally requires a five-level investment in martial classes.

To optimize this style, specific feats are indispensable. The Two-Weapon Fighting Style, available to Fighters and Rangers or via the Feat, is essential as it adds the character's ability score modifier to the damage of the off-hand attack. The Crossbow Expert feat is arguably the most critical investment. It removes the disadvantage on ranged attacks when an enemy is within 5 feet, allows the wielder to make a hand crossbow attack as a bonus action when they attack with a one-handed weapon (which includes a hand crossbow itself), and ignores the loading property. This feat synergizes perfectly, enabling seamless dual-wielding and close-quarters combat.

Chapter 4: Strategic Considerations and Build Synergy

The choice of which hand crossbows to use and who wields them defines the build's role. A Fighter or Ranger with the Archery fighting style, Two-Weapon Fighting, and Crossbow Expert becomes a relentless damage engine, capable of multiple accurate shots per turn. A Rogue can use the off-hand attack as insurance to ensure their Sneak Attack lands if their primary attack misses, while also benefiting from the Sharpshooter feat for high-risk, high-reward damage spikes.

The application of special ammunition further enhances their utility. Using arrows of ice, fire, or darkness with a hand crossbow allows the character to apply area control or elemental damage while maintaining high attack volume. This transforms the wielder into a flexible support damage dealer who can adapt to various combat scenarios. The strategic value lies not just in the number of attacks, but in the consistency and versatility they provide, allowing a single character to apply pressure, remove low-health targets, and utilize special arrows without sacrificing their core attack routine.

Conclusion: Mastering the Art of the Hand Crossbow

Understanding hand crossbow locations in Baldur's Gate 3 is the first step in unlocking one of the game's most potent combat styles. The journey begins with scavenging basic models from goblins or securing an early +1 variant, evolves through the acquisition of unique, spell-enhanced weapons like the Ne'er Misser, and culminates in the refined synergy of feats and class features. This path transforms a simple weapon into the centerpiece of a build defined by exceptional action economy, consistent damage output, and remarkable tactical flexibility. Ultimately, seeking out these crossbows is not merely about collecting gear; it is a deliberate choice to pursue a specific and powerful approach to the challenges of Faerûn, where every bonus action is an opportunity for another perfectly placed bolt.

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