Difference between Light Shield and a buckler?

[BASHMAN]

Something that I wondered, the players said that Buckler confers its AC bonus vs. all opponents, while I was sure it only was against a single opponent (like dodge). I had a PC look it up for me, and he found no such thing to support my idea. So then, my question is, what the heck is the difference between a buckler and a light shield, except for the fact you can wield a 2-handed sword with a buckler on? It seems if this were the only difference, light shields would, by the laws of supply and demand, cease to exist.

So, what IS the difference between Light Shield and Buckler-- besides price.

 

[Hypersmurf]

You can't bash with a buckler.

-Hyp.

 

[Mouseferatu]

Something that I wondered, the players said that Buckler confers its AC bonus vs. all opponents, while I was sure it only was against a single opponent (like dodge). I had a PC look it up for me, and he found no such thing to support my idea.

That was the case, I believe, in prior editions of the game. Just not any longer.

Just so you know, you're not completely crazy.

 

[Sejs]

Bucklers are more expensive and made of metal. You can use a bow or crossbow with a buckler, you cannot with a light shield. You cannot bash with a buckler.

The only-against-one-target thing for bucklers was from 2nd ed, I believe. Possibly earlier.

Bucklers are basically a gentleman's light shield. Actual light shields are more the sort of thing you distribute en masse.

 

[Nonlethal Force]

In some games you can use the hand that has the light shield strapped to it to cast spells - depending upon the DM. You can always use the hand that a buckler is strapped to to cast spells - although if you are an arcanist there is a small penalty for it.

 

[Thanee]

You can't use a buckler (properly), if you are a Warmage.

Bye
Thanee