If you're a FIGHER do you use STR or DEX for hand crossbows?

[lily40k]

The character screen shows the strength to be my main ability... so does it mean i'm using str for crossbow attacks?

Alternatively if i'm some mage and my main attribute is Intelligence, does it use INT for crossbows? I'm bit confused about primary ability.

[soulfreezer]

hand crossbows only use DEX

[wendigo211]

The weapon determines what you use not the class.

• Melee weapons and Thrown weapons use STR
  
• Ranged weapons (other than thrown) use DEX. Melee Weapons with the finesse property will also use DEX if the DEX modifier is higher than the STR modifier, otherwise it will use STR.
  
• Spells use the casting modifier of the Class casting it. So a Cleric/Wizard would use WIS for Inflict Wounds and INT for Fireball.
  
• There are a few exceptions: A Druid with the Shillelagh cantrip can use their WIS modifier for attacking with a staff or club (if it's higher than their STR modifier). Monks treat all the monk weapons as finesse weapons. Warlocks with Pact of the Blade will use CHA for their bound weapon (whether it's higher than their STR modifier or not).

[Moist Tomatoes]

Ranged damage is calculated with DEX, including crossbows. A good alternative for melee characters is using Throw on weapons with the Thrown attribute, such as spears or tridents. That is calculated with STR. Some of the later game magic items even return to your hand when you throw them.

[lily40k]

Originally posted by wendigo211:

The weapon determines what you use not the class.

• Melee weapons and Thrown weapons use STR
  
• Ranged weapons (other than thrown) use DEX. Melee Weapons with the finesse property will also use DEX if the DEX modifier is higher than the STR modifier, otherwise it will use STR.
  
• Spells use the casting modifier of the Class casting it. So a Cleric/Wizard would use WIS for Inflict Wounds and INT for Fireball.
  
• There are a few exceptions: A Druid with the Shillelagh cantrip can use their WIS modifier for attacking with a staff or club (if it's higher than their STR modifier). Monks treat all the monk weapons as finesse weapons. Warlocks with Pact of the Blade will use CHA for their bound weapon (whether it's higher than their STR modifier or not).

Thank you that was exactly what i looked for.