Skip to main content

Ram, Portable

Ram, Portable

Item Details​

Weight: 35 lb.
Cost: 4 GP
Category: Tool
Special: +4 bonus to break down doors
Crew: 1-2 people

Description​

A Portable Ram is a heavy log capped with iron, designed specifically for breaking down doors and barriers. This siege weapon in miniature provides tremendous force when wielded by one or two characters working together.

Usage​

You can use a Portable Ram to break down doors. When doing so, you gain a +4 bonus to the Strength check. One other character can help you use the ram, giving you Advantage on this check.

Mechanics​

Solo Operation​

  • Strength Check: Normal check + 4 bonus
  • Handling: Requires both hands
  • Fatigue: Repeated use may cause exhaustion
  • Accuracy: Harder to aim precisely alone

Two-Person Operation​

  • Primary Wielder: Makes the Strength check with +4 bonus
  • Assistant: Provides Advantage through Help action
  • Coordination: Both characters must act together
  • Efficiency: Much more effective than solo use

Applications​

Door Breaking​

  • Wooden Doors: Most effective against standard construction
  • Reinforced Doors: Still useful but may require multiple attempts
  • Metal Doors: Limited effectiveness, may damage the ram
  • Magical Barriers: No effect on magically sealed doors

Alternative Uses​

  • Wall Breaching: Can damage thin walls
  • Ice Breaking: Effective against frozen surfaces
  • Debris Clearing: Move heavy rubble or obstacles
  • Improvised Weapon: Massive but unwieldy club

Tactical Considerations​

Advantages​

  • High Success Rate: +4 bonus significantly improves chances
  • Team Benefit: Advantage when using with ally
  • Reliable: No complex mechanisms to fail
  • Intimidation: Psychological effect on enemies

Disadvantages​

  • Heavy: 35 pounds limits mobility
  • Obvious: Cannot be concealed or used stealthily
  • Slow: Takes time to position and use effectively
  • Noise: Creates tremendous noise when used

Strategic Planning​

  • Entry Point: Plan alternative routes in case ram fails
  • Team Roles: Designate ram operators and support
  • Time Pressure: Factor in noise and response time
  • Backup Plans: Have lockpicks or magic as alternatives