In Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition (5E), Armor Class (AC) represents a character’s ability to avoid being hit in combat. It is a crucial stat that affects how difficult it is for enemies to land a successful attack. Calculating Armor Class requires taking into account various factors such as armor, shields, Dexterity modifier, and any other bonuses or penalties. In this guide, we will break down the steps on how to calculate Armor Class in 5E.
Factors Affecting Armor Class
Before calculating your character’s Armor Class, it’s important to understand the factors that can affect it:
- Base AC: This is the minimum AC provided by the character’s armor.
- Dexterity Modifier: Characters can benefit from their Dexterity modifier to increase their AC if they are wearing armor that allows it.
- Shields: Shields can provide an additional bonus to AC when equipped.
- Magic Items & Other Bonuses: Certain magic items, spells, or other effects can also modify a character’s AC.
Steps to Calculate Armor Class
Step 1: Determine Base Armor Class
The first step in calculating Armor Class is determining the base AC provided by the character’s armor. Different types of armor have different base AC values:
- Padded Armor: Base AC of 11 + Dexterity modifier (max 2)
- Leather Armor: Base AC of 11 + Dexterity modifier (max 3)
- Chain Shirt: Base AC of 13 + Dexterity modifier (max 2)
- Splint Armor: Base AC of 17
- Plate Armor: Base AC of 18
Step 2: Add Dexterity Modifier (if applicable)
If the character’s armor allows them to add their Dexterity modifier to their AC, do so according to the armor’s limitations:
- If wearing light or medium armor: Add your Dexterity modifier up to the armor’s maximum limit (e.g., +2 for Padded Armor).
- If wearing heavy armor: Ignore the Dexterity modifier as heavy armor does not allow for Dexterity bonuses to AC.
Step 3: Add Shield Bonus (if applicable)
If the character is wielding a shield, they can gain an additional bonus to their AC:
- Shield: +2 bonus to AC
Step 4: Factor in Other Bonuses
Consider any other bonuses or penalties that might affect the character’s AC, such as magic items, spells, or other effects. Add or subtract these bonuses accordingly to the calculated AC total.
Example Calculation
Let’s walk through an example to demonstrate how to calculate Armor Class in 5E:
- Character: Bob the Fighter
- Armor: Splint Armor
- Dexterity: 14 (+2 modifier)
- Shield: Equipped
Step 1: Determine base AC
Splint Armor has a base AC of 17
Step 2: Add Dexterity modifier
Bob’s Dexterity modifier is +2, which is under the maximum limit for Splint Armor
Step 3: Add Shield bonus
Equipped shield provides a +2 bonus to AC
Step 4: Factor in Other Bonuses
No other bonuses or penalties apply in this scenario
Final Calculation: 17 (base AC) + 2 (Dexterity) + 2 (Shield) = 21
Bob the Fighter’s Armor Class is 21.
Conclusion
Calculating Armor Class in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition is a straightforward process that involves considering the base AC of the armor, Dexterity modifier, shield bonus, and any other bonuses or penalties. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily determine your character’s AC and be better prepared for combat encounters.
Remember to regularly update your character’s AC as they level up, acquire new equipment, or gain additional bonuses to ensure they are properly protected in battles.
