How is armor class determined

By this, it seems logical to assume that "base Armor Class" is the armor value, possibly plus 2 for a shield. But, in the case of Mage Armor , dexterity is specifically included in the "base AC".

That sounds like the influence of Dex, if any, is included in the part of the armor , and therefore in your base Armor Class. But, on the other hand, these descriptions refer to "the base number from your armor type" — so is there a "base number" that's different from your "base AC"? The question How does barkskin work? So my question, fundamentally, is: is "base AC" actually a special term in 5E, with a coherent meaning, or is it just some words that get used sometimes in describing armor class sometimes?

If it is a definite term, what exactly does it include? Your "base AC" is your AC before any modifiers. However, it is not a defined game term at this time as it has little or no use outside of the Mage armor spell. So your "Base AC" is either your armor plus your ability if applicable plus your shield, or your natural armor plus your Dex or other stats as applicable.

Your Base AC includes any applicable stat bonuses. A shield modifies your Base AC, and increase it by 2. So your Base AC in the following armor types is as follows:.

Various other things set your base AC. But it's based on both your AC and the appropriate stat. Skip to content Mechanic Overview Players. Published on February 5, , Last modified on August 17th, Table of Contents. Fill out the form below to receive Escape From Mt.

Balefor for free! This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Outside of writing for Arcane Eye, Mike spends most of his time playing games, hiking with his girlfriend, and tending the veritable jungle of houseplants that have invaded his house. He is the author of Escape from Mt. Balefor and The Heroes of Karatheon. Mike specializes in character creation guides for players, homebrewed mechanics and tips for DMs, and one-shots with unique settings and scenarios. Follow Mike on Twitter.

Download our newest adventure! Your character's initiative modifier equals your Dexterity modifier plus any modifiers from class, race, or other features. Once you have worked out your initiative modifier, note it on your character sheet. Padded 5 gp 8 lb. Studded Leather 45 gp 13 lb. The scales are usually assembled and strapped by lacing or rivets. How do you determine your armor class? Category: hobbies and interests model toys.

What is unarmored defense? Does mage armor count as armor? Does Mage Armor stack with draconic resilience? What's in a explorer's pack? Does proficiency add to AC? Does heavy armor reduce speed 5e? What is a good armor class?

What does armor class mean? Then it should just be eliminated as an armor type or be the same as no armor but give ties to the defender instead of the attacker.

Armor in general has some issues imo. The weights should be halved when worn versus carried, with maybe the exception of ring mail. And disadvantage for stealth should be based on noise and maybe shine. Not weight. You are commenting using your WordPress. You are commenting using your Google account. You are commenting using your Twitter account. You are commenting using your Facebook account. Notify me of new comments via email. Notify me of new posts via email.

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