Shield Proficiency? - Downloaded from the Wizards Community, all coding removed by Solauren

Shield Proficiency?

Post/Author/DateTime Post
#1
tyrionlannister2113
Jun 21, 2015 21:09:37
I was wondering, does having shield proficiency function in the same way as armor proficiency? Meaning that having it does not give you a proficiency bonus to armor class, but means you do not suffer a disadvantage with any ability check, saving throw, or attack roll that involves Strength or Dexterity, and you can cast spells? And second, is shield proficiency only gained when your class (or other source) specifically grants "shields" to your proficiencys, or is it also when your proficient in light and medium armor?

#2
Cadburylion
Jun 21, 2015 21:19:44
You must be, in some way, specifically granted proficiency with shields. Light and medium armor are separate from shields. I think your first assumption is correct, however, that a lack of shield proficiency functions the same way as a lack of armor proficiency.

#3
tyrionlannister2113
Jun 21, 2015 21:48:14
Thank you!

#4
Bloodscythe
Jun 22, 2015 10:43:50
Exactly that. All characters gain the +2 AC bonus and proficiency with a shield just means you don't suffer penalties when using one.

If you don't have shield proficiency with the class you choose, you can select the Medium Armor feat which grants proficiency with medium armor and shields, assuming your class is at least proficient in light armor. Wizards and sorcerers would need to get both the Light Armor and Medium Armor feats to gain shield proficiency.

Post/Author/DateTime	Post
#1 tyrionlannister2113 Jun 21, 2015 21:09:37	I was wondering, does having shield proficiency function in the same way as armor proficiency? Meaning that having it does not give you a proficiency bonus to armor class, but means you do not suffer a disadvantage with any ability check, saving throw, or attack roll that involves Strength or Dexterity, and you can cast spells? And second, is shield proficiency only gained when your class (or other source) specifically grants "shields" to your proficiencys, or is it also when your proficient in light and medium armor?
#2 Cadburylion Jun 21, 2015 21:19:44	You must be, in some way, specifically granted proficiency with shields. Light and medium armor are separate from shields. I think your first assumption is correct, however, that a lack of shield proficiency functions the same way as a lack of armor proficiency.
#3 tyrionlannister2113 Jun 21, 2015 21:48:14	Thank you!
#4 Bloodscythe Jun 22, 2015 10:43:50	Exactly that. All characters gain the +2 AC bonus and proficiency with a shield just means you don't suffer penalties when using one. If you don't have shield proficiency with the class you choose, you can select the Medium Armor feat which grants proficiency with medium armor and shields, assuming your class is at least proficient in light armor. Wizards and sorcerers would need to get both the Light Armor and Medium Armor feats to gain shield proficiency.