Thanks for bearing with a new DM... I'm going to try to bring together pieces I've seen in various places and my reading of the PHB, to see if it all checks out.
Assuming 5th level Way of Open Hand Monk with 18 Dex and quarterstaff, are the following valid attack options?
Extra attack action employing staff two handed -
To hit with each of two quarterstaff strikes: 1d20 + proficiency + dex = 1d20 + 3 + 4
Damage with each of two quaterstaff strikes: 1d8 + dex = 1d8 + 4
In addition, can expend 1 ki point to use flurry of blows for two extra unarmed strikes (1d6 at 5th level), so:
To hit with each of two unarmed strikes: 1d20 + proficiency + dex = 1d20 + 3 + 4 [I've seen args to included proficiency bonus for unarmed strikes]
Damage with each of two unarmed strikes: 1d6 + dex = 1d6 + 4
So, adding all up under this scenario, if all four strikes hit potential damage is:
(1d8+4) + (1d8+4) + (1d6+4) + (1d6+4) = 32 expected damage
What'd I do wrong? Most interesed in confirmation of wielding staff versitle for attack action and adding proficiency bonus to attack roles for both quaterstaff and unarmed strkies.
Thanks!
That appears to be correct. Or 24.5 expected without Ki usage.
You can wield the staff 1- or 2-handed. All attack rolls get proficiency and dex bonuses, all monk martial arts attacks get dex bonus to damage.
Looks right.
Just note that you only have 1 bonus action, and a limited number of Ki.
Excellent. Thank you both for confirmation!
scrameggs wrote:
SilentStatue wrote:
When I saw "monk mechanics" I immediately thought of a tinker who wields wrench-chuks (two wrenches connected by a chain).
One quick suggestion: instead of a staff, use a spear (that's what I'm planning to do for my monk*); that way you have a variety of damage types (piercing and bludgeoning), and can throw the spear if needed.
*actually it's a spear with a bundle of sticks tied around the tip to disguise it as a broom
All of your math and scenario is spot on. Just remember that when you use Flurry of Blows that it happens immediately after the Attack action. That means you can't move after the second quarterstaff attack, but can move after your two unarmed strikes. This is the most important part of the feature for the DM to know. If the Monk is using the regular bonus action unarmed strike from his Martial Arts feature, he will be able to move between the action and bonus action. Subtle difference, but it's the price you pay for thae extra unarmed strike.
Edit: Also keep in mind of the Open Hand Technique features. For instance: 1st unarmed strike, knocks target prone. 2nd unarmed strike (rolled with advantage), pushes target up to 15 feet away. This is assuming both attacks hit and the target fails both saves. The old whack, whack, sweep, and boot trick. 
1eejit wrote:
Danny_Montanny wrote:
Luke-Lightning wrote:
scrameggs wrote:
scrameggs wrote:
The Dual wield isn't a bonus action too?
Does that make sense? In order to take the extra strike, you have to decide to do it before you know if you'll have a target left to hit? Esentially not making it about the attacks, but the timing (immediately) of when the Monk initiates the ability.