This came up in a recent session I was in. What happens when you try to use a weapon that your class isn't proficient in? Are you disadvantaged in using it or is it simply you don't get your proficiency bonus with it?
Ok cool. A followup question, how does this work in regards to shields? For example, a rogue trying to use a shield. Do they get the +2 AC or is that reduced because they're not proficient with it?
A character not proficient in shields but using a shield does get the +2 bonus to the AC, but has disadvantage on any ability check, saving throw, or attack roll that involves Strength or Dexterity, and can't cast spells.
"If you wear armor that you lack proficiency with, you have disadvantage on any ability check, saving throw, or attack roll that involves Strength or Dexterity, and you can't cast spells."
Thanks for clearing that up, I think when I got through the character creation we just went straight into game play. I must have overlooked that stuff completely!
Hmmm, just a thought... Regarding a wizard or sorcerer trying to use a shield, does the war caster feat not negate the inability to cast spells as its feature is about allowing you cast spells with a weapon/shield in your hands?
War Caster lets you perform the somatic components of a spell with a weapon or shield in hand. It doesn't bypass the inability to cast spells while wearing armor you're not proficient in.
Hey there,
This came up in a recent session I was in. What happens when you try to use a weapon that your class isn't proficient in? Are you disadvantaged in using it or is it simply you don't get your proficiency bonus with it?
You do not get to add the proficiency bonus.
Ok cool. A followup question, how does this work in regards to shields? For example, a rogue trying to use a shield. Do they get the +2 AC or is that reduced because they're not proficient with it?
A character not proficient in shields but using a shield does get the +2 bonus to the AC, but has disadvantage on any ability check, saving throw, or attack roll that involves Strength or Dexterity, and can't cast spells.
"If you wear armor that you lack proficiency with, you have disadvantage on any ability check, saving throw, or attack roll that involves Strength or Dexterity, and you can't cast spells."
This stuff is all in the Basic Rules.
The Forum Infestation (TM)
Thanks for clearing that up, I think when I got through the character creation we just went straight into game play. I must have overlooked that stuff completely!
Hmmm, just a thought... Regarding a wizard or sorcerer trying to use a shield, does the war caster feat not negate the inability to cast spells as its feature is about allowing you cast spells with a weapon/shield in your hands?
War Caster lets you perform the somatic components of a spell with a weapon or shield in hand. It doesn't bypass the inability to cast spells while wearing armor you're not proficient in.
The Forum Infestation (TM)
Gotcha!