Shiv of the Condemned

“This ain’t just a knife—it’s a middle finger carved in bone.”

They say this jagged shiv was carved from the hip of a dead tyrant, smuggled outta Blackcliff Prison by someone who never gave their name. It’s a cruel little thing—no balance, no elegance, just rage held together by old cloth and dried blood. It was made by someone who’d rather die stabbing than die silent.

Mike found it once, tucked in the boot of a bard who said he “picked it up for flavor.” Bard’s still around. But now he hums to himself and won’t go near crowds.

This ain’t a hero’s weapon. This is what ya grip when yer back’s against the wall and yer surrounded by folks who want ya dead.

If yer outnumbered and still standin’—this one’s for you.
👉 Got a rogue, a loner, or a last-one-standing fighter? Drop the Shiv of the Condemned into their story and watch the tables turn. More vicious gear in the Tavern Armory, or holler at us here.

Shiv of the Condemned – Weapon Stats

Weapon Type: Simple Melee Weapon (Light, Finesse)
Damage: 1d6 piercing
Properties: Light, finesse (requires attunement)
Special: Cornered Fury

• Crowd Killer:
  The Shiv deals +1 bonus damage per hostile creature within 5 feet of the wielder, up to a max of +5.

• Blood in the Water:
  If the wielder is outnumbered 3 to 1 or more, they gain advantage on all attack rolls made with the Shiv until the end of their next turn.

• Echoing Violence (Crit Effect):
  On a critical hit, all enemies within 10 feet must make a Wisdom saving throw (DC 13) or become frightened until the end of their next turn.

• Prison-Born:
  The Shiv ignores the first attack roll disadvantage caused by cramped quarters, shackles, or poor footing.

• Cursed – No Way Out:
  While attuned, you cannot benefit from temporary hit points or non-magical healing. This weapon was not made for survival. It was made for revenge.

GM Notes:

This blade is perfect for roguish types, last-stand brawlers, or any character with a chip on their shoulder. Use it to heighten tension in betrayal arcs, prison breaks, or urban underworld campaigns. It shines when the odds are unfair—and so does its wielder. Just don’t let the party healer get too smug.

Made to be buried in someone's ribs—and maybe yer own, if it comes to that.
👉 Add some bite to yer blade pile with more relics from Mike’s Tavern Armory. Got a character with nothin’ left to lose? Good. Let ‘em prove it.

FAQ

Q: What counts as “hostile” for the bonus damage?
A: Anyone actively tryin’ to hit ya, cast at ya, or stab ya. Goblins, guards, or angry barmaids—it don’t judge.

Q: What if I’m surrounded but also have allies nearby?
A: As long as yer outnumbered by hostiles in melee, the Shiv don’t care if yer bard’s cryin’ in the corner.

Q: Can this be dual-wielded?
A: Aye. But remember: the Shiv only plays nice when yer cornered. If ya ain’t in trouble, it ain’t impressed.