What Classes Have Proficiency with Shields in D&D 5e?
In Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition, shields are an essential part of a character’s armor, providing protection from damage and adding to their overall defense. But which classes have proficiency with shields, and what are the implications for character builds and combat strategies? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of D&D 5e and explore the classes that have proficiency with shields.
Artificer Class
The Artificer class, introduced in the Wayfinder’s Guide to Eberron, has proficiency with shields. This is in addition to their proficiency with light armor, which is a unique feature of the Artificer class. With their ability to craft and repair complex devices, Artificers are well-suited to using shields to defend themselves in combat.
Barbarian Class
The Barbarian class, known for their brute strength and ferocity in combat, also has proficiency with shields. This may seem counterintuitive, given the Barbarian’s focus on melee combat, but it reflects their ability to adapt to different situations and use shields to supplement their natural defense.
Bard College of Valor Subclass
The College of Valor subclass of the Bard class, introduced in the Xanathar’s Guide to Everything, has proficiency with shields. This reflects the Bard’s ability to use shields as a symbol of their bravery and martial prowess.
Cleric Class
The Cleric class, known for their divine magic and martial prowess, has proficiency with shields. This is in addition to their proficiency with light armor, and reflects their ability to use shields as a symbol of their faith and devotion.
Druid Class
The Druid class, known for their connection to nature and their ability to shape shift into various animal forms, has proficiency with shields. This may seem surprising, given the Druid’s focus on ranged combat and elemental magic, but it reflects their ability to adapt to different situations and use shields to defend themselves in melee combat.
Fighter Class
The Fighter class, known for their martial prowess and combat prowess, has proficiency with shields. This is in addition to their proficiency with medium armor, and reflects their ability to use shields as a key part of their combat strategy.
Moderately Armored Feat
The Moderately Armored feat, introduced in the Player’s Handbook, grants proficiency with medium armor and shields. This feat is available to any character, regardless of their class or background, and provides a significant boost to their defensive capabilities.
Paladin Class
The Paladin class, known for their martial prowess and divine magic, has proficiency with shields. This is in addition to their proficiency with light armor, and reflects their ability to use shields as a symbol of their righteousness and martial prowess.
Warlock Class
The Warlock class, known for their dark magic and martial prowess, has proficiency with shields. This is in addition to their proficiency with light armor, and reflects their ability to use shields as a key part of their combat strategy.
Shield Proficiency Table
Here is a table summarizing the classes that have proficiency with shields:
| Class | Shield Proficiency |
|---|---|
| Artificer | Yes |
| Barbarian | Yes |
| Bard (College of Valor) | Yes |
| Cleric | Yes |
| Druid | Yes |
| Fighter | Yes |
| Paladin | Yes |
| Warlock | Yes |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the classes that have proficiency with shields in D&D 5e are:
- Artificer
- Barbarian
- Bard (College of Valor)
- Cleric
- Druid
- Fighter
- Paladin
- Warlock
Each of these classes has unique abilities and playstyles, but they all share a common thread: the ability to use shields to defend themselves in combat. Whether you’re a tanky Paladin or a ranged-focused Warlock, shields can be a valuable addition to your arsenal.