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Barrel

Barrel

Item Details​

Weight: 70 lb.
Cost: 2 GP
Category: Container
Liquid Capacity: 40 gallons
Dry Goods Capacity: 4 cubic feet

Description​

A Barrel is a large, cylindrical container made of wooden staves bound together with iron hoops. These sturdy containers are the standard for storing and transporting large quantities of liquids, grains, and other bulk materials.

Usage​

A Barrel holds up to 40 gallons of liquid or up to 4 cubic feet of dry goods.

Construction Features​

  • Wooden Staves: Usually oak, providing durability and water resistance
  • Iron Hoops: Metal bands that hold the staves tightly together
  • Sealed Bottom: Watertight construction prevents leaks
  • Removable Head: Top can be removed for filling and access

Storage Applications​

Liquids​

  • Water: Emergency water storage for expeditions
  • Wine/Ale: Beverage storage and transport
  • Oil: Lamp fuel or cooking oil in bulk
  • Alchemical Fluids: Large batch brewing or storage

Dry Goods​

  • Grain: Flour, wheat, oats for long-term storage
  • Preserved Foods: Salt pork, dried fruits, hardtack
  • Materials: Sand, salt, charcoal for various uses
  • Equipment: Small items that need protection from moisture

Alternative Uses​

Improvised Furniture​

  • Table: Turn on side with board across top
  • Chair: Cut opening and add cushion
  • Storage Chest: For non-liquid items
  • Planter: With drainage holes for growing food

Tactical Applications​

  • Cover: Provides partial protection from ranged attacks
  • Trap Component: Can be rigged as part of dungeon traps
  • Floating Aid: Empty barrel provides buoyancy
  • Noise Maker: Rolling barrel creates distraction

Transportation​

  • Rolling: Can be rolled when full, though requires care
  • Cart Loading: Standard size fits most wagon beds
  • Team Lift: Requires 2-4 people to move when full
  • Storage: Takes significant space but maximizes capacity

Maintenance​

  • Seal Checking: Regularly inspect for leaks
  • Hoop Tightening: Metal bands may need adjustment
  • Cleaning: Essential between different contents
  • Seasoning: New barrels may need preparation for liquids