Armor Class

There are usually nine different types of armor in Dungeons & Dragons-based games. The higher the AC value of the armor, the better protection it offers against attacks. However, good protection comes at a cost; arcane spellcasters risk spell failure whenever attempting to cast spells while wearing armor.

AC 0
Piecemeal or complete armors of this grade are meager protection, no better than garments made of cloth or even rags.

AC 1
Protection equivalent to padded cloth.

AC 2
Protection equivalent to hardened leather.

AC 3
Protection equivalent to studded leather or hide.

AC 4
Protection equivalent to scale mail.

AC 5
Protection equivalent to a suit of chainmail.

AC 6
Protection that is equal to banded or splint mail.

AC 7
Protection on par with half-plate.

AC 8
Protection equivalent to a suit of full plate armor.

Small Shields
AC Bonus +1

When used properly, a small shield can grant lightweight protection with very little encumbrance to the wielder.

Large Shields
AC Bonus +2

A large shield is effective protection for the adventurer who can afford the added weight and encumbrance.

Tower Shields
AC Bonus +3

The tower shield is a veritable wall of protection, though it can be quite cumbersome to carry on an adventure