Skip to main content

Grappling Hook

Grappling Hook

Weight: 4 lb.
Cost: 2 GP
Category: Tool
Function: DC 13 Dex check to catch

Description​

A grappling hook is a multi-pronged metal device designed to catch on ledges, battlements, or other protrusions. When attached to a rope, it allows adventurers to climb or swing across gaps, making it an essential tool for exploration and infiltration.

Usage Instructions​

Throwing: Make a ranged attack against AC 10 to hook onto a target within your rope's length. The hook has a range of 20 feet when thrown by hand.

Catching: When thrown at an appropriate target (ledge, battlement, tree branch), make a DC 13 Dexterity check. On success, the hook catches securely.

Weight Capacity: Can support up to 800 pounds when properly secured to a suitable anchor point.

Tactical Applications​

  • Vertical Access: Climb walls, cliffs, or tall structures
  • Gap Crossing: Swing across chasms or moats
  • Retrieval: Pull objects or levers from a distance
  • Combat: Improvised weapon or tool for disarming
  • Escape: Quick exit from upper floors or walls

Suitable Targets​

Excellent: Stone battlements, thick tree branches, iron grates Good: Window ledges, roof edges, wooden beams Poor: Smooth walls, thin branches, loose stones Impossible: Flat surfaces, magical barriers, ethereal objects

Rope Requirements​

Minimum: 50 feet of rope for most applications Recommended: 100+ feet for serious climbing or exploration Quality: Hemp rope (2 GP, 50 feet) is standard; silk rope is lighter but more expensive

Limitations​

  • Requires suitable anchor point to catch
  • Makes noise when thrown or when it impacts
  • Can slip or come loose under excessive stress
  • Difficult to retrieve if it becomes stuck
  • Success depends on thrower's skill and target suitability

Advanced Techniques​

Assisted Throwing: Another character can help aim, granting advantage on the Dexterity check.

Multiple Attempts: If the first throw fails, you can try again, but each attempt takes time and may create noise.

Improvised Anchors: In desperate situations, the hook might catch on unexpected protrusions with DM discretion.

Maintenance​

Keep the hook points sharp and free of rust. Check the attachment point where rope connects to the hook for wear. File or sharpen prongs if they become dull from use.