Can a wizard learn a single weapon proficiency (similar to how they can learn a tool set or language, which use Training rules), or are costly and over-blown options like multi-classing, feats, or becoming a Bladesinger the only way?
I know that getting a level of Fighter, or taking the Weapon Master feat, or choosing the Bladesinger archetype would work, but all of these also gain many more things than just proficiency with a sword. They are also either difficult (multi-classing sacrifices a whole wizard level), or very expensive (devoting the character's future to being the Bladesinger archetype), or outright impossible (a DM's game may simply not include the multi-classing or feat options). It seems such a pity when Training rules are right there, but they don't cover learning new weapon proficiencies.
It's possible that I'm fixated on wishing I could just Train for using a sword and I'm overlooking something else.
Is there any simple way that isn't hugely expensive to learn proficiency with just the sword? Is it easier than I am seeming to read it?
Best Answer
Other than the obvious Feat and multi-classing there is a section on training in the DMG and thus totally optional, but it is on p231.
If you can get a feat by doing this or proficiency in a skill (pointing out that these don't count against your normal feat progression), I don't see anything game breaking to train for a single weapon. This is covered under unusual and usually unavailable training as a reward so it could be something to work toward by gaining renown with a guy that knows a guy for example.
This approach is entirely in the wheelhouse of DM allowance though and I would never allow it out of the box to be honest, as in Level 1.
This answer is based on the assumption that you already have a Wizard created and not necessarily an elf of any flavor, since the question was edited a few times by a couple of moderators this point may not have been clear, as in whether generating one from Level 1 or an existing Wizard of any race.