Eldritch Knight 5e
Fighters who supplement martial prowess with abjuration and evocation magic. Eldritch Knights blend weapon attacks with spellcasting for tactical versatility.
At a Glance
Hit Die
d10
Primary Ability
Strength or Dexterity, Intelligence
Saving Throws
Strength, Constitution
Armor
All armor, shields
Weapons
Simple weapons, martial weapons
Spellcasting
Third caster (Intelligence)
Key Features
| Feature | Level | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Spellcasting | 3rd | Learn wizard spells (primarily abjuration/evocation). Limited slots as third caster. |
| Weapon Bond | 3rd | Bond with up to two weapons, can't be disarmed, and summon as bonus action. |
| War Magic | 7th | When you cast a cantrip, make one weapon attack as a bonus action. |
| Eldritch Strike | 10th | Creature hit by your weapon attack has disadvantage on next save against your spell until end of your next turn. |
| Arcane Charge | 15th | Teleport up to 30 feet when using Action Surge, before or after the extra action. |
| Improved War Magic | 18th | Attack as bonus action after casting any spell, not just cantrips. |
Subclasses
| Subclass | Source | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Eldritch Knight | Player's Handbook | This is the subclass itself - fighter martial archetype blending magic and melee |
Common Mistakes
Common Mistake
Forgetting spell restrictions - must pick mostly abjuration/evocation until high levels
Common Mistake
Not using Shield spell, which is one of the best reasons to be an Eldritch Knight
Common Mistake
Missing that War Magic requires casting a cantrip, not any spell (until 18th level)
Common Mistake
Overlooking Weapon Bond prevents disarming and allows teleporting weapons to hand
DM Tips
DM Tip
Shield and Absorb Elements make Eldritch Knights extremely durable
DM Tip
They're limited to 1/3 spell progression - don't expect heavy spellcasting
DM Tip
War Magic at 7th level makes them dangerous with cantrips like Booming Blade
DM Tip
Eldritch Strike disadvantage combos well with allies casting save spells
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & Further Reading
- Fighter (Eldritch Knight) — D&D 5e Wikidot — Full SRD class text
- Fighter (Eldritch Knight) — D&D Beyond — Official class reference
- Fighter (Eldritch Knight) Guide — RPGBOT — Class optimization guide