Some weapon advice

[Neuro]

Here's my dump: http://angband.oook.cz/ladder-show.php?id=7756

I'm currently switching between Sting and Gurthang, using Gurthang mainly for Dragons, but now that my str/dex is high enough for 5x attacks with Gurthang, I'm wondering if I shouldn't just bag Sting full time.

I like Sting's +2speed (which takes me to 11) and +2 Attacks, but doing the math I find Gurthang does slightly more dmg against anything that isn't fire+poison resistant. I'm just not sure how much more +2 speed is worth. Also, Sting has the +2dex and con bonus which helps my shooting.

Which is better for me? I usually use Sting, but am I overestimating the speed and +2 attacks?

[hugorune]

I'm no expert but I'd figure anything *really* dangerous is probably fire and poison resistant anyway? And speed is king in this game, an extra move or two can make all the difference.

I'm still learning the game myself though (keep dying at about 1500-1600 feet due to recklessness) so I wouldn't take my advice too seriously...

You should read scrolls of *identify* on your artifacts - unless you get the info elsewhere I guess.

[PowerDiver]

Originally Posted by Neuro

Here's my dump: http://angband.oook.cz/ladder-show.php?id=7756

I'm currently switching between Sting and Gurthang, using Gurthang mainly for Dragons, but now that my str/dex is high enough for 5x attacks with Gurthang, I'm wondering if I shouldn't just bag Sting full time.

I like Sting's +2speed (which takes me to 11) and +2 Attacks, but doing the math I find Gurthang does slightly more dmg against anything that isn't fire+poison resistant. I'm just not sure how much more +2 speed is worth. Also, Sting has the +2dex and con bonus which helps my shooting.

Which is better for me? I usually use Sting, but am I overestimating the speed and +2 attacks?

There is a qualitative difference between +10 speed and +9 speed.
If you play long games, as most do, it is the low probability tail events
that will kill you. If you are at +9 speed, 5% of the time a +10 speed monster
will get a double move on you, and possibly kill you.

In fact, random speed variations among non-unique monsters means up to +12 speed
is possible in a "quick" opponent.

[Nystul]

It is a pretty significant difference as long as Gurthang can use one of it's slays. Like 50% increase in damage or so. Against dragons, almost double damage by using Gurthang instead of Sting.

Extra speed is always a nice thing, but right now I think your hp total is a far greater concern than the amount of speed your character has.