Using dexterity instead of strength as a Druid when in combat

[arcticdruid]

I have been looking for a way to use dexterity instead of strength as a druid when in combat (human form not wild shape). I am sure I used to be able to do this under old systems (e.g. weapon finesse) but can't find anything in 5e. Does anyone have any suggestions?

[Steampunkette]

Step 1. Ask your DM if it's okay if you just swap them.
Step 2. ???
Step 3. Profit!

[Zevox]

Just use a weapon with the "finesse" property. It's like 3e's Weapon Finesse feat, but it's an inherent part of the weapon, and applies to damage as well as attack rolls. For weapons a Druid is proficient with, your options are daggers and scimitars.

So, basically, use a scimitar.

[Ninja_Prawn]

Short answer: use a scimitar.

Long answer: why are you even bothering with physical stats? You've got Shillelagh and Wild Shape. All you really need is Wisdom.

[arcticdruid]

Ok thanks everyone. Good to know re finesse weapons and will look into shillelagh I will look into both.

[arcticdruid]

Oh wow...shillelagh...I had no idea how good it is!

[Ninja_Prawn]

Oh wow...shillelagh...I had no idea how good it is!

Lol.

I was watching a campaign on YouTube with a druid. Every time they went into combat he cast Shillelagh, and every time the barbarian charged in and killed everyone before he could use it. By the third session it was a runnung gag.

[arcticdruid]

Lol that does make a good point...no one can beat a fighting class at their own game

[Ruslan]

I was watching a campaign on YouTube with a druid. Every time they went into combat he cast Shillelagh, and every time the barbarian charged in and killed everyone before he could use it. By the third session it was a runnung gag.Not sure you (and the group in question) noticed, but Shillelagh has a casting time of Bonus Action, so you can cast and attack on the same turn.

[Ninja_Prawn]

Not sure you (and the group in question) noticed, but Shillelagh has a casting time of Bonus Action, so you can cast and attack on the same turn.

You know, I hadn't spotted that. I think they were treating it as a full action. In many of the instances he wouldn't have made it into melee range anyway - the barbarian (and hunter ranger) were well-optimised for blitzkrieg.

The point I was trying to make still stands though: druids don't get Extra Attack as a class feature and Hex, Hunter's Mark and Spiritual Weapon aren't on their spell list, so they'll never keep up with melee specialists in the long run.