Can a first level wizard use a wand of fireballs?

[GarretJax]

Can you please provide page numbers or links to references? We are arguing over what the "class spell list" is. Is it every spell available to that class, or does that only include the spells that you are able to cast?

[Malruhn]

When you use a wand, you are NOT using a "spell" as it were, you are using an arcane device. There are rules about spell failure and such for SCROLLS, but those allow the casting of a spell - and wands aren't spells.

3.5 DMG, page 213, left side of page, entitled: "Spell Trigger" is a good place to start.

3.5 DMG, page 245, Right side of page, entitled: "Wands" is a good place to finish.

According to these two locations, the spells inside are ALMOST completed - all you need to do is trigger it - and ANYONE that casts that style of magic can activate it.

If a DM was silly enough to hand one out, a first level wizard could use a Wand of Wishes without a problem (except from local thieves!!).

[nijineko]

class (spell/power) list is defined as all the spells or powers available to a given class, regardless of spells known, or in a spellbook.

technically speaking, a ranger can use a cure light wounds wand at first level, despite not being able to cast spells until fourth level.

[Malruhn]

That is a good thing to remember... it is good ancillary info to my answer above. Rangers get "divine" spells - so they can use ANY divine wand whether they can cast ANY spells yet. Thanks for reminding me of that nijineko.

Oh, and Garret, thanks for making me pull out my 3.5 PHB and DMG - it brought back memories!!

[nijineko]

no problem. actually, i got called out on it by my dm. and we even roleplayed it out in game. my character had never used one before, so i turned my player forgetfulness and confusion into a rp moment where the ranger was taught by the cleric how to use wands (that were also on the ranger list). ^^

[Malruhn]

And here's 500 xp for inventive role playing!

[mrken]

This brings to mind Mickey and his experience in Fantasia. Try that in your game.

[GarretJax]

Hey Everyone,
Thanks for all of your input, it helped out greatly. It was a little debate between the players and our DM but is now solved. Thanks again.

[nijineko]

happy to oblige. =D