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Chain Mail

Chain mail consists of interlocking metal rings forming a protective suit. This heavy armor includes a layer of quilted fabric worn underneath the chain to prevent chafing and to cushion the impact of blows. The suit includes gauntlets. Chain mail is the entry-level heavy armor for warriors who can meet the Strength requirement, offering solid protection at a more accessible price point than splint or plate armor. It's commonly worn by soldiers, knights, and front-line fighters.

At a Glance

Type
Armor
Cost
75 gp
Weight
55 lbs
Heavy ArmorStealth Disadvantage

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MechanicsCommon MistakesDM TipsFAQSources

Mechanics

Armor Class: 16. Heavy armor doesn't let you add your Dexterity modifier to your AC. You can don chain mail in 10 minutes and doff it in 5 minutes. Donning with help reduces time by half. Strength Requirement: 13 (if you don't meet this, your speed is reduced by 10 feet). Stealth Disadvantage: You have disadvantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks while wearing this armor. Wearing armor without proficiency imposes disadvantage on ability checks, saving throws, and attack rolls involving Strength or Dexterity, and prevents spellcasting.

Common Mistakes

Common Mistake
Forgetting the Strength 13 requirement (speed is reduced by 10 feet if not met)
Common Mistake
Not applying disadvantage on Stealth checks in all situations
Common Mistake
Thinking you add Dexterity modifier to AC (you don't with heavy armor)
Common Mistake
Assuming you can remove the stealth penalty with expertise or proficiency (you can't)
Common Mistake
Not accounting for the 55 lb weight when calculating encumbrance
Common Mistake
Forgetting it takes 10 minutes to don (you can't quickly put on heavy armor)

DM Tips

DM Tip
Chain mail is the standard armor for level 1 heavy armor users (clerics, fighters, paladins)
DM Tip
Many starting equipment packages include chain mail for appropriate classes
DM Tip
The 75 gp cost is expensive but achievable for starting characters with class features that grant it
DM Tip
AC 16 is respectable for low to mid levels but becomes less effective at higher levels
DM Tip
The Strength requirement matters for builds that don't prioritize Strength
DM Tip
Stealth disadvantage creates interesting party dynamics during infiltration
DM Tip
Consider describing the distinctive sound of chain mail clinking during tense moments
DM Tip
NPCs in chain mail are clearly armored warriors - good for guards and soldiers

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Further Reading