Skip to main content

Lamp

Lamp

Category: Light Sources
Weight: 1 lb.
Cost: 5 SP
Light Properties: 15-ft bright, 30-ft dim

Description​

A lamp is an oil-burning light source consisting of a reservoir for fuel, a wick, and a protective housing. It provides steady, reliable illumination and can burn for hours with proper fuel. Lamps are more sophisticated than torches and offer better light control and duration.

Light Properties​

Illumination Range:

  • 15-foot radius of bright light
  • Additional 15-foot radius of dim light
  • Total effective range of 30 feet
  • Burns for 6 hours on 1 pint of oil

Light Quality:

  • Steady, consistent flame
  • Adjustable brightness by wick manipulation
  • Protected flame less susceptible to wind
  • Even light distribution

Fuel Requirements​

Oil Consumption:

  • Uses 1 pint of oil per 6 hours of operation
  • Oil costs 1 silver piece per pint
  • Can be refueled while burning (carefully)
  • Various oil types provide different burn characteristics

Fuel Types:

  • Standard Oil: Basic lamp oil, most common
  • Whale Oil: Burns brighter and cleaner (if available)
  • Vegetable Oil: Cheaper alternative with shorter burn time
  • Scented Oil: Provides pleasant aroma while burning

Tactical Applications​

Extended Operations:

  • Long burn time ideal for extended activities
  • Adjustable light for stealth or full illumination
  • Stable base provides hands-free lighting
  • Can be carried or placed for area lighting

Combat Utility:

  • Thrown as improvised weapon (5 fire damage if lit)
  • Creates area lighting for group combat
  • Can be used to ignite flammable materials
  • Provides consistent illumination for ranged attacks

Advantages Over Other Light Sources​

Versus Torches:

  • Much longer burn time (6 hours vs 1 hour)
  • Adjustable brightness levels
  • Protected flame more wind-resistant
  • Cleaner burning with less smoke

Versus Candles:

  • Significantly brighter illumination
  • More durable and less fragile
  • Better suited for outdoor use
  • Longer operational duration

Maintenance and Care​

Regular Upkeep:

  • Trim wick regularly for optimal burning
  • Clean glass or housing to maintain light output
  • Check fuel levels before important activities
  • Inspect for cracks or damage that could cause leaks

Fuel Management:

  • Monitor oil consumption during use
  • Carry spare oil for extended operations
  • Refuel carefully to avoid spills or fires
  • Store fuel securely to prevent contamination

Alternative Uses​

Practical Applications:

  • Heat source for warming small areas
  • Cooking aid for heating food or water
  • Signal device for long-distance communication
  • Emergency fire starter for larger fires

Utility Functions:

  • Reading light for studying or research
  • Work light for detailed tasks
  • Area lighting for camp activities
  • Timer (burn rate can measure time passage)

Economic Considerations​

Initial Investment:

  • Moderate cost at 5 silver pieces
  • Durable construction provides long-term value
  • Reusable with proper maintenance
  • Good balance of cost versus performance

Operating Costs:

  • Oil consumption: 1 SP per 6 hours of use
  • Occasional wick replacement needed
  • Minimal maintenance costs
  • More economical than torches for extended use

Safety Considerations​

Fire Prevention:

  • Ensure stable placement to prevent tipping
  • Keep away from flammable materials
  • Never leave burning lamp unattended
  • Have extinguishing method readily available

Proper Handling:

  • Handle carefully when lit to avoid burns
  • Allow cooling before refueling
  • Check for fuel leaks before lighting
  • Use appropriate tools for wick adjustment

Environmental Adaptability​

Weather Resistance:

  • Housing protects flame from moderate wind
  • Can function in light rain with proper cover
  • Cold weather may affect oil viscosity
  • Hot weather increases evaporation rate

Indoor vs Outdoor Use:

  • Excellent for indoor applications
  • Suitable for outdoor use with wind protection
  • Ventilation important for extended indoor use
  • Stable base ideal for camp lighting

Storage and Transport​

Portability:

  • Moderate weight at 1 pound
  • Compact design for easy packing
  • Secure fuel reservoir prevents spills
  • Handle or bail for convenient carrying

Storage Requirements:

  • Store fuel separately when not in use
  • Keep wicks dry and protected
  • Clean thoroughly before long-term storage
  • Protect glass components from impact

Variants and Upgrades​

Common Types:

  • Basic Lamp: Standard oil-burning design
  • Shuttered Lamp: Adjustable light output with shutters
  • Safety Lamp: Enclosed flame for hazardous environments
  • Decorative Lamp: Ornate designs for formal occasions
  • Compact Lamp: Smaller size for reduced weight

Professional Applications​

Occupational Use:

  • Miners and underground workers
  • Night watchmen and guards
  • Scholars and scribes
  • Craftsmen requiring steady light
  • Travelers and explorers

Comparison with Magical Alternatives​

Advantages:

  • No magical components or spell slots required
  • Reliable function regardless of magical conditions
  • Familiar technology easily understood and repaired
  • Fuel widely available in most settlements

Disadvantages:

  • Requires fuel and ongoing costs
  • Can be extinguished by environmental factors
  • Produces heat and potential fire hazard
  • Heavier than magical light sources