Chain Mail
D&D 5e · 2014·Heavy armor·No attunement
Your Dexterity modifier does not change this Armor Class, up or down.
Armor Class calculator
- Category
- Heavy armor
- Dex bonus
- None
- Stealth
- Disadvantage
- Strength
- Str 13 (else −10 ft. Speed)
- Weight
- 55 lb
- Don / doff
- 10 minutes / 5 minutes
- Rarity
- Nonmagical
- Price
- 75 GP
Calculator assumptions & rules
Uses this entry’s AC formula, Dexterity cap and listed shield bonus. Magic AC already included in the entry is counted once. Features, spells, alternative AC formulas and exceptions to Strength penalties are excluded. You still need the required armor training or proficiency.
Changing calculator inputs does not change the item’s rules or create a new page URL.
Using Chain Mail
- AC 16 does not improve with Dexterity. Compare armor options using your actual Dexterity modifier rather than their base AC alone.
- It imposes Disadvantage on Stealth checks; consider that cost if the group relies on sneaking.
- Strength 13 avoids this armor’s listed Speed penalty. The calculator flags the penalty when your Strength is lower.
Heavy armor. Armor Class: 16. Imposes Disadvantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks. Strength 13 avoids a 10-foot Speed reduction. Donning takes 10 minute(s); doffing takes 5 minute(s). If helped, doffing takes half as long. Armor proficiency is needed to avoid the normal penalties.
Full item details & properties
Armor details
- Armor Class
- 16
- Category
- Heavy
- Dexterity modifier
- Not added
- Strength to avoid Speed penalty
- 13
- Stealth disadvantage
- Yes
- Don
- 10 minutes
- Doff
- 5 minutes
Tags & related references
Compare alternatives
Same edition, using your calculator inputs above. Special properties and character features can change the choice.
Same base armor; compare magical benefits
Armor of Resistance (Chain Mail)AC 1616 AC · Stealth DisadvantageNot specified · 55 lbSame base armor; compare magical benefits
Mithral Armor (Chain Mail)AC 1616 AC · No armor Stealth penaltyNot specified · 55 lbSame base armor; compare magical benefits
Plate ArmorAC 1818 AC · Stealth Disadvantage1,500 GP · 65 lbSame armor category; compare AC and Stealth
Chain Mail FAQ
What Armor Class does Chain Mail give?
It starts at AC 16. Dexterity does not change its AC, whether your modifier is positive or negative.
Does Chain Mail require attunement?
No. This entry does not require attunement; follow its activation and use rules.
What if my Strength is below 13?
The armor lists a 10 ft. Speed penalty below Strength 13. The calculator flags it; character features may provide exceptions.
Is the listed price a guaranteed purchase price?
The listed price is a reference from this catalogue entry. Availability and the final price depend on your game and GM.