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Chain Shirt

A chain shirt is made of interlocking metal rings worn between layers of clothing or leather. This medium armor covers the torso and provides solid protection without the bulk of heavier armors. Unlike the heavier chain mail, the chain shirt is lighter and doesn't impose disadvantage on Stealth checks, making it popular among adventurers who need both protection and mobility. It's commonly worn by scouts, rangers, and rogues who have medium armor proficiency.

At a Glance

Type
Armor
Cost
50 gp
Weight
20 lbs
Medium Armor

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MechanicsCommon MistakesDM TipsFAQSources

Mechanics

Armor Class: 13 + Dexterity modifier (maximum +2). Medium armor lets you add your Dexterity modifier, up to a maximum of +2, to your AC. You can don a chain shirt in 5 minutes and doff it in 1 minute. Donning with help reduces time by half. No Strength requirement. No disadvantage on Stealth checks.

Common Mistakes

Common Mistake
Forgetting the +2 maximum on Dexterity modifier (characters with 16+ Dex still only add +2)
Common Mistake
Confusing chain shirt with chain mail (chain mail is heavy armor with AC 16 and stealth disadvantage)
Common Mistake
Not realizing chain shirt is often inferior to hide armor for high-Dex characters (same AC, hide is cheaper)
Common Mistake
Thinking the 50 gp cost is cheap (it's the same as scale mail but with 1 less base AC)
Common Mistake
Assuming characters with 16+ Dexterity should use this (studded leather gives AC 17)

DM Tips

DM Tip
Chain shirt is best for characters with exactly 14 Dexterity (gives AC 15)
DM Tip
Hide armor gives the same AC as chain shirt for only 10 gp (huge cost difference)
DM Tip
The lack of stealth disadvantage is the main selling point over scale mail
DM Tip
Perfect for NPCs who need medium armor without stealth penalties
DM Tip
The 20 lb weight is reasonable for most characters
DM Tip
Consider chain shirts as common loot from bandits or guards
DM Tip
Not optimal for min-maxed builds but thematically appropriate for many characters
DM Tip
At 50 gp, it's accessible but often outshined by other medium armor options

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Further Reading