[RPG] For the purpose of “A Druid does not wear Metal Armor”, is a metal helmet considered a metal armor

armordnd-5edruid

There does not seem to be much about helmets as far as armor class or items PCs can purchase. However, once in a while the adventurers will stumble on a really nice helmet, possibly magical… and the Druid may want to wear it (maybe it offers a +1 to AC.)

I'm not sure if helmets count as armor since they don't appear in the table of armor items. Would a Druid ever willingly wear a helmet made of metal? Are helmets considered part of the armor?

Best Answer

According to a dictionary:

Armor, noun

  1. any covering worn as a defense against weapons.
  2. a suit of armor.
  3. a metallic sheathing or protective covering, especially metal plates, used on warships, armored vehicles, airplanes, and fortifications.
  4. mechanized units of military forces, as armored divisions.
  5. Also called armament. any protective covering, as on certain animals, insects, or plants.
  6. any quality, characteristic, situation, or thing that serves as protection: A chilling courtesy was his only armor.
  7. the outer, protective wrapping of metal, usually fine, braided steel wires, on a cable.

As you can read the first definition, a helmet is armor.

If you are still unsure, the description of Plate might be helpful:

Plate. Plate consists of shaped, interlocking metal plates to cover the entire body. A suit of plate includes gauntlets, heavy leather boots, a visored helmet, and thick layers of padding underneath the armor. Buckles and straps distribute the weight over the body.

All of the mentioned pieces make the suit of armor, and every piece is armor itself.

According to page 65 of Player's Handbook: Druids will not wear armor or use shields made of metal.

Furthermore, accordingly to an email from Wizards:

Thanks for contacting Wizards of the Coast Game Support.

In general, no, a Druid will not wear any metal accessories or equipment. As with all rules in Dungeons & Dragons, this is not set in stone and you may work with your Dungeon Master in order to find a satisfying compromise. If you have any further questions or comments, please feel free to contact us again. Good luck and have fun!

This means:

A druid will not wear a metal helmet

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