[RPG] Does an aarakocra’s talons attack use Strength or Dexterity

dnd-5emonsters

Do Aarakocra talons use STR or DEX for attack and damage? I’ve checked Monster Manual p.12 to have some clues and the higher stat for Aarakocra monster is Dex and damage is based on dex (+2) the higher Aarakocra stat.

Best Answer

The Aarakocra has a Str modifier of +0, and a Dex modifier of +2. As a CR 1/4 monster, it has a proficiency bonus of +2 (see the Proficiency Bonus by CR table, page 8 of the MM).

The Talon attack is the following:

Talon. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d4 + 2) slashing damage.

So based on the calculations behind player attacks, it seems likely that this is calculated as:

Dex (+2) + proficiency (+2) = +4 to attack

Dex (+2) = +2 damage

Obviously, if you try to use Str instead of Dex, this doesn't add up.

However, it's possible that creature attack bonuses are either arbitrary or not calculated the same way as player attack bonuses are, but if this is the case there is no way to answer this question.

Somewhat disconcertingly, the Aarakocra player race from the Elemental Evil Player's Companion gains:

Talons. You are proficient with your unarmed strikes, which deal 1d4 slashing damage on a hit.

Which would be based on Str, since the Unarmed Strike is not a finesse weapon.

Related Topic