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Shield

A shield is made from wood or metal and is carried in one hand. Wielding a shield increases your Armor Class by 2, making it one of the most efficient defensive options in D&D 5e. Shields represent a simple but effective defensive tool that has been used throughout history. Whether a small buckler or a large kite shield, mechanically all shields provide the same +2 AC bonus. The shield occupies one hand, preventing the use of two-handed weapons or dual-wielding, but the defensive benefit is substantial.

At a Glance

Type
Armor
Cost
5 gp
Weight
6 lbs
Shield+2 AC

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MechanicsCommon MistakesDM TipsFAQSources

Mechanics

Armor Class: +2 bonus to AC. Donning a shield takes an action. Doffing a shield takes an action. You can benefit from only one shield at a time. Using a shield requires one hand, preventing you from wielding two-handed weapons or using two-weapon fighting (unless you have the Dual Wielder feat). You must be proficient with shields to gain the AC bonus; wearing a shield without proficiency gives you disadvantage on any ability check, saving throw, or attack roll that involves Strength or Dexterity, and prevents you from casting spells.

Common Mistakes

Common Mistake
Forgetting that donning or doffing a shield requires an action (not free)
Common Mistake
Thinking you can use a shield with two-handed weapons (you can't)
Common Mistake
Not realizing you can cast spells with somatic components while holding a shield (if you're proficient and it's your spellcasting focus or the other hand is free)
Common Mistake
Assuming all characters are proficient with shields (<a href="/characters/classes/wizard-5e/">wizards</a>, <a href="/characters/classes/sorcerer-5e/">sorcerers</a>, <a href="/characters/classes/rogue-5e/">rogues</a>, <a href="/characters/classes/monk-5e/">monks</a> typically aren't)
Common Mistake
Forgetting that shields prevent two-weapon fighting unless you have Dual Wielder feat

DM Tips

DM Tip
The +2 AC from shields is mathematically equivalent to roughly 25% more durability
DM Tip
Shields are essential for front-line defensive characters (<a href="/characters/classes/paladin-5e/">paladins</a>, <a href="/characters/classes/cleric-5e/">clerics</a>, sword-and-board <a href="/characters/classes/fighter-5e/">fighters</a>)
DM Tip
The 5 gp cost makes shields extremely affordable and accessible
DM Tip
Consider magical shields (+1, +2, +3) or shields with special properties as rewards
DM Tip
Animated Shield is a fun magic item that allows shield bonus without occupying a hand
DM Tip
<a href="/spells/reaction-defense/shield-5e/">Shield</a> spell reaction can stack with physical shield for incredible burst defense
DM Tip
NPCs with shields are noticeably harder to hit - use them for elite guards and knights
DM Tip
The 6 lb weight is negligible for most characters

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Further Reading