What Weapons do Paladins Use?
Paladins are one of the most iconic classes in fantasy fiction, renowned for their unwavering dedication to justice, honor, and their divine patrons. They are often depicted wielding holy symbols, shields, and swords, which they use to vanquish their enemies and protect the innocent. But what kind of weapons do paladins typically use? Let’s dive into the details!
An Overview of Paladin Weapons
Paladins are equipped with a variety of weapons that reflect their martial and spiritual abilities. These can range from simple, well-balanced swords to heavier, more imposing warhorses. Here are some common weapons associated with paladins:
- Longsword: A trusty and versatile weapon used by paladins of various backgrounds. Longswords are well-suited for both melee combat and quick, agile movements. Some notable examples include the iconic Sunstrider’s Sword, wielded by the protagonist of the video game Final Fantasy X, and Tintagel Sword, the weapon of Lancelot, King Arthur’s most trusted knight.
- Warhorse: Warhorses are often associated with chivalrous paladins, symbolizing their military prowess and unwavering commitment to their causes. In fantasy fiction, paladin warhorses might be imbued with extraordinary abilities, such as supernatural strength, speed, and endurance.
- Greatshield: Greatshields are a staple for paladins, particularly those with a focus on tanking and crowd control. These massive shields protect the paladin from ranged attacks and provide a vital line of defense against heavier opponents. Notable examples include the Chosen’s Shield, which protects the paladin, Fate, and Tombstone Greatshield, wielded by The Dark Knight from the Dark Souls series.
Holy Symbols
In many fantasy settings, paladins are tasked with wielding divine holy symbols, which they use to channel their deities’ power and purify their enemies. Here are some examples:
| Holy Symbol | Description | Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| Sword of Light | A legendary holy sword said to wield the power of the Holy Mother | Purifies impurities, deals holy damage to undead and demonic creatures, and protects the wielder from harm |
| Anointed Hammer | A divine hammer imbued with the power of a god | Deals holy damage to all enemies within range, creates a protective circle of light around the paladin, and smites the unworthy |
| Staff of Righteousness | A slender, intricately carved wooden staff infused with the principles of justice | Channels righteous energy to heal allies and smite the wicked |
Ranged Weapons and Martial Abilities
While not always depicted as archetypes of ranged combat, some paladins may excel at ranged warfare or even combine martial prowess with divinely-granted abilities:
- Longbow and Arrows: Ppaladins may specialize in ranged combat, especially if their deity is often associated with the hunt. Notable examples include the Holy Bow and Aurora‘s Quiver.
- Bash and Slam: Many paladins are equipped with bash and slam martial abilities, reflecting their proficiency in close-range combat. Some noteworthy examples include Vow of Strength, where the paladin’s mighty swing crushes their enemies, and Unyielding Stance, which stuns foes and allows for counterattacks.
Tome of Knowledge
Let’s summarize the various types of weapons and abilities available to paladins. As a Tome of Knowledge, this is your go-to guide on the equipment and martial techniques of paladins, ensuring you’re well-armed and well-prepared for your next adventure. Remember to stay vigilant and wield your weapons with honor, as a paladin always must prioritize their moral duty to uphold justice and the values of their divine patron.
In conclusion, the answer to the question of What weapons do paladins use? is not a simple one, as it depends on the specific fantasy setting or fiction. However, based on our exploration of legendary examples, paladins are typically associated with wielding a mix of holy symbols, swords, shields, warhorses, longbows, and martial techniques that reflect their martial, spiritual, and divine abilities.
