dagger of venom ranged???

[Orm]

I´m sure someome asked this before, but this question came up in our last session. Is it possible to use the dagger of venom (from the DMG) as a ranged weapon and inflict the poison spell after hitting without touching the dagger? Maybe its kind of telepathy.


Thanks in advance
Orm

 

[Dark Dragon]

Just found the description in the SRD:

Dagger of Venom
This black +1 dagger has a serrated edge. It allows the wielder to inflict a poison spell (DC 14) upon a creature struck by the blade once per day. The wielder can decide to use the power after he has struck. Doing so is a a free action, but the poison spell must be inflicted on the same round that the dagger strikes.

Caster Level: 5th; Prerequisites: Craft Magic Arms and Armor, poison; Market Price: 9,302 gp; Cost to Create: 4,802 gp + 360 XP.

Normally, I don't follow the rules strictly word by word, but in this case, it could help to find an answer. Second sentence: It allows the wielder to inflict a poison spell (DC 14) upon a creature struck by the blade once per day. As it says "wielder", I'd assume that the ability could be used only when the dagger is hold by the attacker. If the dagger has been thrown, it's not wielded anymore, IMHO.

My 2 cents as a DM...

 

[aliensex]

I could see allowing it to be used ranged. I'd just rule that the attacker has to decide BEFORE the attack roll that he is using the poison ability, and if the attack misses, its wasted.

 

[Bagpuss]

I'ld say its fine to use it ranged, and decide afterwards.

 

[Orm]

Thanks for your input so far. Anyone else?

Orm

 

[Tyris Harmon]

I would agree with aliensex on this one.