How to Get Shortsword of First Blood in Baldur’s Gate 3

The Shortsword of First Blood is a sword that deals extra damage to full health enemies and you can find it in Act 1 of Baldur’s Gate 3 (BG3).

Baldur's Gate 3 Corsair Greymon in Grymforge feature image

The Shortsword of First Blood is a unique weapon in Baldur’s Gate 3 (BG3) that stands out for its deadly efficiency against foes at full health. Found early in Act 1, this shortsword is a valuable asset for characters who rely on striking first and hard. In this guide, we’ll explore the Shortsword of First Blood, how to acquire it, and tips for using it effectively in Baldur’s Gate 3.

What is the Shortsword of First Blood in BG3?

Baldur's Gate 3 Shortsword of First Blood BG3

In Baldur’s Gate 3 the Shortsword of First Blood is a melee weapon which can deal extra damage to targets will full health. Generally, while there are better weapons you can find as you play the game, this one isn’t bad for filling spot until you find something better. The main bonus on it is called Break the Unbroken. Whenever you strike an enemy that has full health this sword will deal an extra 1-8 Piercing damage.

Moreover, this extra Piercing damage only affects hits made by this weapon specifically. It is not a passive which carries over to other weapons (such as bows) you may have equipped.

Shortsword of First Blood Abilities and Effects

Below are all the features, abilities, and effects of Shortsword of First Blood in Baldur’s Gate 3:

  • Weapon Type: Shortsword
  • Damage: 1d6+4 Piercing; +1d8 Piercing (Condidtional)
  • Requirements: Martial Weapons or Shortswords Proficiency
  • Rarity: Uncommon
  • Location: Found on the corpse of a Deep Gnome in the Underdark (X:73, Y:-187), Act 1.
  • Weight: 0.9 kg
  • Value: 65
  • Bonuses:
    • Break the Unbroken: Deals an additional 1d8Piercing to targets that still have all their hit points.
  • Classes with Martial Weapons Proficiency: Barbarian, Fighter, Paladin, and Ranger
  • Races with Shortswords Proficiency: Drow, Elf, Githyanki
  • Companions Who Can Use This Weapon: Karlach, Lae’zel, Minthara, Minsc, Astarion

How to Get Shortsword of First Blood in BG3? Explained

BG3 Whispering Depths

To get the Shortsword of First Blood in Baldur’s Gate 3 you first need to find your way into the Underdark, and then head towards the Decrepit Village by the beach. Along the southern path you’ll come across the corpse of a Deep Gnome which will be holding the sword.

The easiest way to find the Underdark in Baldur’s Gate 3 is to first find the Whispering Depths. You can do this by using the Well found in the middle of the Blighted Village. Interacting with the Well will require you to pass a low DC roll in order to see the bottom. Travel down and you’ll be in a small series of caverns filled with spiders. Watch out for the Phase Spider Matriarch boss and make your way west towards the Whispering Depths waypoint.

Nearby you will see a large glowing green chasm. Cast the Feather Fall spell on yourself and your party and jump into it. At the bottom, you will land directly in the Underdark.

How to Get Shortsword of First Blood in Baldur’s Gate 3

In the Underdark you’ll land on the right/east side of the map in between the Selunite Outpost and the Myconid Colony. To find the Shortsword of First Blood, you’ll want to head a bit north and then mostly west. You will likely run into a series of corpses, including Myconids, Deep Gnomes and Duergar. You’re looking for a fallen Deep Gnome who will have the Shortsword of First Blood in their inventory.

Baldur's Gate 3 Shortsword of First Blood on Deep Gnome corpse

How to Use the Shortsword of First Blood in BG3?

The best way to use the Shortsword of First Blood in BG3 is by equipping it to a front-line, melee damage dealer like a Fighter, Barbarian, or Paladin. This is because you only get the extra Piercing damage when you hit enemies with full health. Therefore, you want to give it to a character that will be in front, and/or the first to strike in combat.

Tips and Tricks for Shortsword of First Blood in BG3

These are the best tips and tricks for finding and using Shortsword of First Blood in Baldur’s Gate 3:

  • Be careful approaching the Decrepit Village when you search for the Shortsword of First Blood. If you enter the Village on ground level, you can be ambushed.
  • The Shortsword of First Blood isn’t a best-in-slot weapon for the early game of BG3. However, if you need an expendable magical item for Gale, this is something he can absorb.

FAQs about Shortsword of First Blood in BG3

Where can I find Shortsword of First Blood in Baldur’s Gate 3?

You can find the Shortsword of First Blood on the corpse of a Deep Gnome outside of the Decrepit Village( X:73, Y:-187) in the Underdark during Act 1.

Which classes or builds benefit most from Shortsword of First Blood?

Barbarian, Fighter, or Paladins would benefit the most from equipping the Shortsword of First Blood because they will often be the first to hit full health enemies in BG3.

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