Below are some ideas on updating rules for modern equipment in 5E TTRPG games, an update to 2003’s Cop Gear, Spy Tools, Modern Equipment Lists post.
Technology Skill
If not adding “Technology (Int)” as a skill or feat, a GM can instead leverage existing skills and the revised tools rules from the 2024 5.2 SRD:
If you have proficiency with a tool, add your Proficiency Bonus to any ability check you make that uses the tool. If you have proficiency in a skill that’s used with that check, you have Advantage on the check too. – System Reference Document 5.2.1 (“SRD 5.2.1”)
Examples…
Acrobatics (Dex): Climbing Gloves, Parkour Harness, Grip Tape Footwear, Flexible Spine Support, Motion Stabilizer Belt, Aerial Silks / Suspension Line, Compact Parachute, Impact Absorption Pads, Elastic Support Wraps, Gymnastics Chalk, Balance Sensor Anklet, Lightweight Harness System, Repelling Line & Anchor Kit, Shock-Dampening Boots, Training Resistance Bands, Flexibility Gel Pack, Zero-G Mobility Boots, Gyroscopic Stabilizer Suit
Animal Handling (Wis): Training Whistle, Treat Pouch, Animal Restraint Gear, Behavioral Clicker, Calming Agent Spray, Portable Containment Cage, Animal Pheromone Extracts, Veterinary Gloves, Remote Observation Drone, Sedative Injector, Tranquilizer Dart Kit, GPS Tracking Collar, Field Muzzle Kit, Motion-Sensing Feeder, Biofeedback Tuner
Arcana (Int): EM Spectrum Analyzer, Quantum Interference Scanner, Energy Field Reader, Ritual Pattern Tablet, Holographic Spell Modeler, Thaumaturgy Sensor Wand, Etheric Resonance Tuner, Symbol Mapping Software, Quantum Encryption Driver, Psionic Feedback Meter, Temporal Distortion Gauge, Dimensional Flux Probe, Astral Mapping Visor, Sigil Projection Disk, Reality Phase Detector
Athletics (Str): Weighted Training Vest, Kinetic Resistance Bands, Powerlifting Belt, Climbing Harness System, High-Grip Boots, Impact Strength Gloves, Portable Hydration Pack, Grip-Assist Gauntlets, Mechanical Exosupport Brace, Power-Climb Grapple Gun, Speed Training Sled, Strength Test Dynamometer, Metabolic Stim Gel, Tactical Rope Kit, Multi-Rig Suspension Trainer
Deception (Cha): False ID Wallet, Digital Voice Modulator, Disguise Kit (Modern), Deepfake Projection Device, Social Engineering Script Tablet, Forgery Printer, Emotion Control Spray, Holo-Identity Mask, Perfumed Confidence Enhancer, Blank Corporation Credential Kit, Poker Glasses, Redirector Ear Transceiver, Contextual Lying Algorithm, Scene Distraction Palette, Subvocal Whisper Mic
History (Int): Portable Research Database, Historical Archive Tablet, Linguistic Scanner, Chronological Mapping Software, Cultural Artifact Analyzer, Deepsearch Record Access Key, Old-Script Translator Pen, Satellite Image Timeline Viewer, Data Preservation Kit, Legal Precedent Reference Key, Architectural Age Scanner, Multilingual Audio Archive, Political History Digest Drive, Ancient Symbol Recognition App, Encyclopedic AR Overlay
Insight (Wis): Microexpression Scanner, Heartbeat Pattern Monitor, Thermal Emotion Reader, Behavioral Audit Tablet, Micro-Tremor Detector, Pulse Finger Sensor, Lie Reaction Recorder, Holographic Replay Visor, Eye-Tracking Analyzer, Conversation Signal Recorder, Aura Inflection Lens, Stress Pattern Watch, EM Field Emotional Meter, Voice Stress Analyzer, Biofeedback Prediction AI
Intimidation (Cha): Combat Vest Display Gear, Tactical Baton (Visible), Reinforced Knuckle Bracers, Dominance Posture Exosuit, Threat Display Visor, Signal Jammer (Power Flex), Flash-Tone Voice Amplifier, Riot Helmet (Visor Down), Chemical Irritant (Visible), Command Authority Badge, Stun Baton Holster, Heavy Torchlight, Barrier Impact Tool, Groundquake Stomp Enhancer, Shockwave Sound Emitter
Investigation (Int): Forensics Kit, Crime Scene Scanner, Thermal Imaging Camera / Scope, Recording Drone, Borescope Camera, Digital Evidence Suite / Data Analysis Tablet, Chemical Analysis Kit, UV Flashlight / Blacklight, Laser Measuring Device, Smart Glasses with AR Overlay, Audio Spectrum Analyzer, Magnetic Resonance Scanner (portable), Lie Recognition Software, AI-Assisted Evidence Parser, Ballistics Comparator, Drone LIDAR Mapping Kit, Portable Holographic Projector
Medicine (Wis): Trauma Kit, Field Med Scanner, Portable Defibrillator, Chemical Stabilizer Injector, Suture Thermo-Tool, Vital Reader Monitor, Sterile Sealant Spray, Biofoam Patch, IV Deployment Module, Pulse Ox Sensor, Auto-Injector Medpak, Splint Kit, Nanite First Aid Capsule, Hemostatic Field Bandage, Pharmaceutical Synth Tablet
Nature (Int): Field Sample Kit, Environmental Scanner, Soil Analysis Reader, All-Weather Observation Drone, Atmospheric Sensor Rod, Water Purity Tester, Flora/Fauna ID Database, Portable Microscope, UV Photosynthesis Analyzer, Biome Mapping Tablet, Genetic Swab Kit, Insect Collection Module, Terrain Geology Hammer, Climate Pattern Tracker, Organic Decay Rate Meter
Perception (Wis): Audio Surveillance Earpiece, Long-Range Optic Monocular, Multispectrum Light Glasses, Directional Microphone, Vibration Detector Pick, Motion Eye Scanner, Wide-Angle Sensor Lens, Thermal Binoculars, Laser Point Mapper, EM Noise Filter Headset, Low-Light Augmented Glasses, Distant Tap Monitor, Drone Recon Camera, Scent Detection Wand, Signal Clarity Booster
Performance (Cha): Wireless Micro Amp, Stage Lighting Palette, Digital Voice Tuner, Instrument Interface Glove, Gesture Motion Collar, Presentation AR Projector, Holographic Stage Cast System, Costume Quick-Change Rig, Rhythm Pulse Earpiece, Emotional Response Monitor, Live Remix Synth Pad, Portable Stage Speaker, Storytelling Prompt Tablet, Projection Micsuit, Illusion Overlay Module
Persuasion (Cha): Negotiation Portfolio Tablet, Confidence Modulator Spray, Tailored Suit Weave, Social Calibration Earpiece, Behavioral Forecast Software, Mood Lighting Wrist Device, Interactive Business Card Kit, Eye Contact Focus Lens, Trust Field Patch, Strategic Handshake Protocol Enhancer, Microcompliment Prompt AI, Tone Matching Microphone, Table Etiquette Swipe Pad, Relationship Mapping Module, Corporate Diplomacy Badge
Religion (Int): Sacred Symbol Database, Ritual Reference Tablet, Comparative Theology Archive, Incense Field Burner, Multi-Faith Ceremonial Kit, Language of Prayer Translator, Astral Chart Reader, Electronic Hymnal, Divination Record Scanner, Symbol Forecast Visor, Meditation Timer Beacon, Purifying Salt Dispenser, Iconography Identification Device, Oral Tradition Recorder, Pilgrimage Route Mapper
Sleight of Hand (Dex): Palm Concealment Glove, Micro-Pick Set, Frictionless Contact Gel, Magnetic Latch Trigger Tool, Lock Bypass Strip, Coil Wire Spool, Distraction Flash Card, Quick-Swap Pouch, Fingertip Adhesive Pads, Coil Spring Loader, Rigged Card Deck, Dexterity Flex Bands, Thumb Blade Slider, Micro-Weight Counterbalance, Digital Fingerprint Masker
Stealth (Dex): Sound-Dampening Boots, Adaptive Camouflage Cloak, Thermal Mask Spray, Light Absorption Panels, Blackout Visor Goggles, Nano-Silence Field Generator, Brush Displacement Net, Shadow Weave Fabric Suit, Noise Scrambler Clip, Minimal Reflective Gear Set, Electronic Entry Tool, Passive Stealth Drone, Soft-Traction Gloves, Infiltration Harness, Motion Profile Suppressor Belt
Survival (Wis): All-Climate Coat, Collapsible Shelter Kit, Water Filtration Straw, Signal Beacon Flare, Thermal Blanket Layer, Trail Marking Spray, High-Calorie Ration Pack, Firestarter Coil, Weather Prediction Module, Solar Charger Block, Rough Terrain Treads, Compass Module, Foldable Cookstove, Animal Deterrent Spray, Emergency Locator Drone
Unfamiliar Technology
In most games, “Tool Proficiency: Technology (Modern)” should be enough to cover use of anything listed below. If a character has understanding of modern technology but is not specifically proficient, a GM may allow an Intelligence check with disadvantage to use the item. Else, if totally unfamiliar, the 2014 Dungeon Master’s Guide Chapter 9: Dungeon Master’s Workshop provides rules for figuring out alien technology:
To determine how the technology works, a character must succeed on a number of Intelligence checks based on the complexity of the item: two successes for a simple item (such as a cigarette lighter, calculator, or revolver) and four successes for a complex item (such a a computer, chainsaw, or hovercraft). Then consult the Figuring Out Alien Technology table. Consider making the item break if a character fails four or more times before taking a long rest.
A character who has seen an item used or has operated a similar item has advantage on Intelligence checks made to figure out its use.
Int. Check Total … Result
* 9 or lower … One failure; one charge or use is wasted, if applicable; character has disadvantage on next check
* 10 to 14 … One failure
* 15 to 19 … One success
* 20 or higher … One success; character has advantage on next check
Main Equipment
Gear most likely to end up in a heroic character’s inventory during an adventure:
Hacking Kit
Rugged laptop/tablet, antenna array, patch cables, USB exploit spike, portable decryptor, encrypted thumb drive, diagnostic software, small soldering iron, cable crimper. Adds proficiency bonus to any checks that involve network intrusion, encryption/cracking, signal tracing, or forensic image analysis. Possible uses include:
* Remote Access: Gain a temporary backdoor into a building’s security system (disables cameras for 1 minute per Success level).
* Signal Spoofing: Impersonate an authorized device to receive transmissions or access doors.
* Forensics: Recover deleted files, timestamps, or message origins from seized drives.
* Override: Send a command to a device (e.g., open a lock, stop a drone) after a successful check.
Failure consequences
* Partial failure: Access denied and attempt logged (possible later trace).
* Critical failure: System counterattack (alarm, temporary stun via taser trap or backlash for 1d6 lightning or psychic damage), or the exploit device destroyed.
Tech Repair Kit
Micro-soldering iron, precision tool set, micro-parts stash (fuses, capacitors, servomotors), portable oscilloscope, cable testers, adhesive sealant, hand vacuum for dust, diagnostic reader. Grants proficiency bonus on checks to repair, calibrate, or modify technological devices. Possible uses include:
* Field Repair: Restore partial functionality to a damaged robot, drone, or mechanical device. On success, it regains limited operation (moves or acts for 1d4 rounds before shutting down again).
* Stabilize Circuitry: Prevent a sparking or overheating device from exploding or causing further damage; success halts a cascade failure or negates environmental hazards like fire, radiation, or power surges.
* Jury-Rig Modification: Temporarily enhance a piece of tech — e.g., increase range of a scanner, boost drone speed, or overcharge a weapon. Effect lasts 10 minutes per Success level before risking burnout.
* Component Salvage: Scavenge useful spare parts from broken machinery. Each success yields one “Repair Part” usable to reduce future DCs or speed up future repair checks.
* Power Management: Safely reroute energy, swap batteries, or recharge a depleted cell. On success, you restore 1d4 charges or negate an overload hazard.
* Hardware Integration: Combine two or more devices (e.g., mount a camera to a drone, hard-wire a weapon into armor systems).
* Environmental Sealing: Patch a pressure suit, repair a cracked visor, or reseal damaged shielding to prevent suffocation or radiation damage for 1 hour.
Failure consequences
* Partial failure: The repair is unstable or temporary; device functions briefly (1d4 rounds or 1d4 minutes) before failing again, or performs at half efficiency.
* Critical failure: The device shorts out or sparks violently; user takes 1d6 lightning or fire damage, or the component is destroyed beyond salvage. In delicate systems, failure may cascade to adjacent parts or trigger alarms.
Engineering Kit
Torch, punch, jack, torque wrenches, measuring tools, 50 ft. cable, spare gears/power chips, heavy adhesives, blueprint and schematics data. Possible uses include:
* Structural Reinforcement: Brace a collapsing beam, door, or hull section to prevent failure. Each Success level delays collapse or negates environmental damage for 10 minutes.
* Vehicle Field Repair: Restore limited functionality to a disabled vehicle, mech, or power unit. Success may allow up to 1 mile of movement, or 1d4 rounds of combat operation before stalling again.
* Heavy Breach: Use torque and cutting tools to force open sealed or reinforced access points (e.g., blast doors, vault locks). One Success level bypasses one degree of security or hardness.
* Quick Barricade: As an Action or 1-minute setup (DM discretion), construct partial cover (+2 AC) or half-wall fortification using available debris. Lasts for 10 minutes per Success level or until destroyed.
* Mechanical Overdrive: Temporarily boost the output of a machine (thrust, power, hydraulic pressure). On success, grant +10 ft. speed, +2 DC breach power, or advantage on one Strength-related roll for 1 minute per Success level.
* Load & Lift: Deploy winch or pulley to move heavy debris or flip a vehicle. Success allows lifting or repositioning objects normally requiring two or more creatures.
* Demolition Setup: Plant charges or engineer weak points to collapse or breach structures. On success, lower the DC of future checks to break/demolish by 5 per Success level.
Failure consequences
* Partial failure: The repair or modification takes effect but is unstable. After 1d4 minutes or upon hard stress (e.g., hit by attack), the structure or device fails, collapses, or malfunctions.
* Critical failure: Catastrophic overload results in sparks that cause 1d6 fire or bludgeoning damage in a 5 ft. area, the device or structural segment is irreparably damaged, or triggers immediate collapse/disassembly. In demolition contexts, may cause early detonation.
Other Modern Equipment
Details on specific items acquired or outfitted during play…
Investigation & Forensics Tools
Forensics Kit: Contains fingerprint powder, brushes, UV penlight, evidence bags, sterile gloves, tweezers, and sample tubes. Used for Investigation or Medicine checks involving crime scenes or autopsies.
Crime Scene Scanner: A handheld digital analyzer that scans for trace materials, heat signatures, or magical residue. Grants advantage on Perception (search) or Investigation checks once per short rest.
Recording Drone: A silent micro-drone with a camera and directional mic. Can transmit live video up to 300 feet and hover for 10 minutes before recharging.
Data Pad: Compact computer tablet used for research, decrypting files, or cross-referencing databases. Functions as a modern equivalent of a spellbook or arcane focus for tech-based actions.
Evidence Bag Kit: Lightweight pouches and seals to preserve items without contamination. Grants advantage on checks to maintain chain of custody or protect fragile clues.
UV Flashlight: Reveals invisible inks, fluids, or spectral traces. Counts as a small light source and can detect hidden messages or residues.
Micro-Camera: Pen-sized still/video camera with time-stamped output and low-light mode. Can store 8 hours of footage. Useful for surveillance and documentation.
Surveillance & Espionage Gear
Security Kit: Modernized Thieves’ Tools including bump keys, micro-spanners, magnetic pick gun, and card duplicator. Adds proficiency to bypass mechanical or electronic locks.
Signal Jammer: Disrupts wireless communications in a 30-foot radius for up to 10 minutes. Creatures attempting to send signals must succeed on a DC 15 Intelligence (Technology) check.
Bug Detector: Scans for listening devices or hidden transmitters within 20 feet. Grants advantage on Perception checks to locate surveillance tech.
Disguise Kit (Modern): Includes makeup, synthetic ID cards, wigs, and digital facial projectors for temporary changes. Used for Deception checks in undercover operations.
Listening Device: Small contact mic or parabolic receiver allowing eavesdropping through walls or over 100 feet. Requires concentration and a successful Perception check.
EMP Grenade (nonlethal): Disables electronic devices within a 15-foot radius for 1 minute. Tech powered by batteries or circuitry must be rebooted after. Single-use.
Thermal Cloak: Smart-fabric coat that masks infrared signature. Grants advantage on Stealth checks against thermal sensors and drones.
Comm Earpiece: Encrypted earpiece allowing silent communication with allies within 1 mile. Each wearer must have one for the network to function.
Mini-Camera or Pen Recorder: Captures 8 hours of footage or audio; can be hidden easily. Advantage on Sleight of Hand to plant or conceal it.
Security Override Key: Portable hacking spike that disables electronic locks and cameras for 30 seconds. Usable once per Short Rest; requires a Technology check (DC 15).
Field & Utility Gear
Multi-Tool: Foldable knife, pliers, screwdriver, and wire cutter. Adds +2 bonus to Sleight of Hand checks involving mechanical manipulation.
Compact First-Aid Kit: Equivalent to a Healer’s Kit. Contains antiseptic, gauze, injectors, and trauma patches. Ten uses.
Climbing Gloves: Padded grip gloves with micro-treads. Allow climbing vertical or slick surfaces without checks for the first 10 feet.
Thermal Cloak: Camouflaged hooded wrap that masks heat signature and movement. Grants advantage on Stealth checks against sensors.
Comm Earpiece: Encrypted headset with a 1-mile range. Enables silent communication among allies using short phrases or clicks.
Tracer Beacon: Coin-sized GPS or magical tracker with a 1-mile signal. Useful for tailing suspects or marking hidden caches.
Survival Gear
Field Rations (Compact): Pre-packed energy bars and hydration gels equal to 1 day of food. Five packs weigh 2 pounds. Last indefinitely if sealed.
Water Purifier Straw: Removes contaminants and pathogens from up to 10 gallons of water per day. Grants advantage on Survival checks to locate drinkable water.
Thermal Blanket: Retains body heat and reduces exhaustion risk from cold environments. Grants advantage on Constitution saves vs. freezing weather.
Compact Shelter: Collapsible one-person tent with heat insulation and signal flare beacon. Provides full rest protection from weather.
Geiger Counter / Bio-Scanner: Detects radiation, toxins, and microbial hazards within 30 feet. Advantage on Investigation checks to locate safe zones or identify contamination.
Climbing Harness & Line: Lightweight grapnel with 50 feet of carbon rope. Advantage on Athletics checks for climbing and rappelling in vertical ruins or skyscrapers.
Med-Sprayer (Portable Medkit): Ten-use dispenser that stabilizes a creature at 0 HP as an Action. On a DC 10 Medicine check, restores 1d4 HP. Recharges at a clinic or base.
Signal Flare: Emits bright light visible for miles for 1 minute. Can also be used to start fires or signal aircraft.
Survival Watch: Includes compass, barometer, thermometer, and timer. Provides direction and weather prediction, granting advantage on Survival navigation checks.
Exploration Gear
Handheld Scanner (Multi-Spectral): Detects heat, motion, EMF, or arcane signatures. Once per Short Rest, grants advantage on an Investigation or Perception check within 30 feet.
UV Flashlight: Reveals hidden fluids, prints, or symbols. Also functions as a dim light source for 30 feet.
Binoculars / Digital Zoom Goggles: Magnify targets up to 1 mile away; advantage on Perception (sight) checks at long range.
Drone Scout: Remote-controlled camera drone with 200-foot flight range, 30-minute battery, and live video feed. Can fit through narrow gaps. Counts as a familiar for scouting.
Data Pad (Analysis Terminal): Used to access networks, analyze evidence, or decode digital files. Advantage on Technology or Investigation checks involving databases or encrypted systems.
Portable Energy Cell: Recharge power source for tools, drones, or scanners. Restores one charge to a single device during a Short Rest.
Environmental Suit (Partial): Lightweight filter mask and hood that provide 1 hour of breathable air in hazardous zones. Grants advantage on Constitution saves vs. gas or spores.
Mapping Beacon: Small GPS node that records explored terrain up to a 1-mile radius. Functions as a local mini-map generator.
Chemical Test Kit: Detects trace poisons, acids, or drug residues. Adds +2 bonus to Investigation or Medicine checks involving substances.
Blacklight Film: Thin sheets revealing latent prints or energy trails when viewed through them. Single-use, but grants insight into recent events.