Arachnic Grappler

Weapon (pistol), uncommon (requires attunement)

This magic pistol doesn't fire bullets. Instead, it launches a specialized, eight-pronged grappling hook when fired. The grappling hook is also equipped with an optional, sharpened point. As a result, a target hit with the fired hook still takes piercing damage from the attack as normal (unless you choose for it to be harmless). The grappling hook is connected to the weapon by a translucent silk rope, which the weapon magically produces when fired.

When you hit a point or target within 30 feet of you with a ranged attack using the weapon, the grappling hook magically contracts to grip it tightly. You can then either pull yourself to the nearest unoccupied space within 5 feet of the target (if it's Medium or larger) or pull it to the nearest unoccupied space within 5 feet of you (if it's Medium or smaller). If the target is unwilling, it must succeed on a DC 13 Strength saving throw or be pulled. On a miss or at the end of the turn, the grappling hook magically returns to the pistol by skittering (like a spider) and retracting the rope. If at any point the hook becomes untethered to the pistol, it magically reappears on the front of the pistol the following dawn.

The pistol has 4 charges and regains 1d4 expended charges daily at dawn. When you hit a creature with the grappling hook, you can choose to expend 1 of its charges to attempt to restrain that creature, as if by the web spell (save DC 13), which targets only that creature (instead of a point) and doesn't require concentration. This effect lasts for 1 minute or until the restrained creature breaks free.

As one who swore by my trusty rope caster on these very pages, I'll admit any similar device had an uphill battle to convince me. Yet here I am, not only swayed, but made a convert in entirety by this marvelous tool! Aside from its arachnid theming—I'll admit to a slight squeamishness around the eight-legged—I can find no complaint but that I never had one sooner!

I wouldn't praise a device not field-tested, so for those who followed the Gold Canyon heist: this was the only equipment I used to pull it off! The boasts of its watchful guards, complex enchantments, and mazelike terrain were neither overstated nor a match for this clever contraption. Had it eyes, I've no doubt it would've winked as it tied up the last guard between me and a clean getaway!

So, for any engaged in high-flying feats, I can't recommend this firearm enough. To order, inquire at Attercop and Webb's, aisle 8, The Bazaar.

—Review from Threadfoot's Journal for the Discerning Thief