Blinding Powder

This is a general term for any powder which is highly abrasive, irritating to the eyes, and disabling to the victim as a result. Powdered stone, pepper, dust soaked in onion juice, and strong ammonium salts—blinding powder can be made from many ingredients.

Blinding powder is only useful if it is thrown right into the eyes of a victim. This counts as a called shot (Dungeon Master's Guide, p.58) with an additional (doubled) penalty, for a total of -8 on the attack roll. the Dexterity bonus of the person throwing the powder applies to the attack roll. Further, the base AC of the target ignores any armor or shield used, save for the use of a helmet or helm; magical protection such as bracers of defense or a ring of protection protect the target, as does Dexterity (unless the attack has an element of surprise).

If blinding powder strikes a victim the effects are the same as those of the stinking cloud spell save that they last for 2d4+2 rounds and no saving throw is allowed. If the victim can wash his eyes with plenty of water, the effect will only last for one round after the eyes are washed. Although blinding powder can contain some unpleasant ingredients, it has no permanently damaging effects on the eyes.

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