Almanac – Saps
June 22nd, 2012Hello, Diane here. Sorry for the late update – since Eric and Brit are off to HeroesCon, they left me in charge yesterday, but I got an emergency call late in the night and went to the hospital for a close friend. I dropped straight into bed when I got home, and completely forgot the update until Eric texted me this morning.
So, here we present our next Almanac entry: Saps. I’ve known what a lot of the weapons on our Weapons page are ever since I started playing D&D in elementary school, but reading the details and history about each one always absorbs me. Eric’s a fanatic about research, and it really shows in his writing. Take a look for yourself!
So Eric, what’s the functional difference between a beavertail and a blackjack? It seems like a beavertail would be easier to use (more surface with which to connect) while for the same reason a blackjack would be more effective. ‘Course, I’m utterly unfamiliar with the niceties of coshes….
Diane, we’re all still there with you in spirit.
Since the beavertail is wider and flatter than the blackjack, it spreads the force of the blow out over a wider area. This decreases the likelihood of breaking bones and increases the chance of getting the surprise stunning blow for which saps are known. A blackjack is much better for melee, as they’re effectively padded clubs.
Can’t comment on the update, I haven’t read it yet. I came straight here to say, I hope everything goes well. Hugs, and remember we-all can wait for our fix; there are more important things!
Also, having now read the update: my phone tells me the “take a look” link is broken.
Fixed! I was in a rush to do this before I had to get to my day job this morning. Thanks for catching it and for your kind words, Greg.