What classes can use heavy armor 5e?

What Classes Can Use Heavy Armor 5e?

In the world of Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition, armor is a crucial aspect of a character’s defense. Heavy armor, in particular, provides the best armor class (AC) of all, making it a popular choice among players. But which classes can use heavy armor? In this article, we’ll explore the classes that can don the heaviest of armors and provide a comprehensive guide on how to unlock this powerful ability.

Automatic Proficiency

Not all classes can use heavy armor automatically. However, some classes have proficiency in heavy armor from the get-go. These classes include:

• Paladin: Paladins are natural tanks, and their ability to wear heavy armor is a testament to their martial prowess.
• Fighter: Fighters are skilled warriors who can wield heavy armor with ease.
• Cleric (Life Domain): Clerics of the Life Domain can wear heavy armor, making them formidable opponents on the battlefield.
• Cleric (Nature Domain): Clerics of the Nature Domain can also wear heavy armor, but only if they choose to specialize in the Life Domain.
• Cleric (Tempest Domain): Clerics of the Tempest Domain can wear heavy armor, making them powerful forces on the battlefield.
• Cleric (War Domain): Clerics of the War Domain can wear heavy armor, but only if they choose to specialize in the Life Domain.

Unlocking Heavy Armor Proficiency

Not all classes can wear heavy armor automatically. However, some classes can unlock heavy armor proficiency through subclasses, feats, or multiclassing. Here are some examples:

• Barbarian: Barbarians can wear heavy armor if they choose the Totem Warrior subclass and select the Bear aspect.
• Ranger: Rangers can wear heavy armor if they choose the Knight archetype.
• Monk: Monks can wear heavy armor if they choose the Way of the Kensei subclass.
• Bard: Bards can wear heavy armor if they choose the College of Lore subclass.

Heavy Armor Proficiency through Feats

Some feats can grant heavy armor proficiency to classes that don’t have it automatically. Here are some examples:

• Heavy Armor Feat: This feat allows any class to wear heavy armor, but it comes with significant penalties to movement and stealth.
• Shield Master Feat: This feat allows any class to wear heavy armor and use shields, but it requires proficiency in medium armor.

Table: Classes that Can Wear Heavy Armor

Conclusion

In conclusion, not all classes can wear heavy armor automatically. However, some classes have proficiency in heavy armor from the get-go, while others can unlock it through subclasses, feats, or multiclassing. Remember to choose your class and build wisely, as heavy armor can be a game-changer on the battlefield.