The Basic Paladin Build Guide v1.2

[Dworkin_of_Amber]

This is an updated version of the Paladin Build Guide. I have edited, reorganized, and reposted this, thus superseding the previous version.

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1/14/08 - Added Dragonmark Information for all races to Post #2
1/14/08 - LOTS of Updates throughout the entire guide. All new material is in Yellow.


Table of Contents:

Post #1 – “Introduction to the DDO Paladin”,

Post #2 - “What Race Should I Choose for my Paladin?”

Post #3 – “Ok, So What Race Should I Choose?”

Post #4 - “Important ‘Break Points’ for Feats/Enhancements for Paladin Multi-Classing”

Post #5 - "Items and Equipment of interest to most Paladins?".

Post #6 – “The Paladin DPS Discussion” – A serious look at Paladin DPS vs. Fighter DPS

Post #7 - Basic Pure 14 Paladin Template, with translation information for all 6 races.

Post #8 - Paladin/Fighter Hybrids, including "Intimitanks" and "Max-AC" builds.

Post #9 – DPS Focus

Post #10 - The "Basic Human Evasion Paladin" with conversions to other races

Post #11 – The Evasion Paladin + Rogue Skills.

Post #12 - Level-20 build-out speculation for the builds.

Post #13 – Some “other” Paladin-ish builds I have created. A.K.A. Builds that splash a little Paladin, but probably shouldn’t be included in a “Paladin Build Guide”, but I’m going to do it anyways.

Post #14 – Other contributed builds that I have not personally tested

Post #15 - Paladin AC Discussion

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IMPORTANT NOTE: REMEMBER THAT IN ORDER TO TAKE PALADIN LEVELS, YOU *MUST* BE LAWFUL GOOD. While it is not stated on each of the builds, remember that any build that does not start with Paladin *MUST* be Lawful Good, otherwise you will not be able to take any Paladin Levels

What is a Paladin in DDO?

While many may be familiar with the PnP Paladin, the DDO Paladin is a bit of a different beast. DDO Paladins are, usually, front-line melee characters, with limited spellcasting for buffs, healing wand usage, and Lay on Hands for Emergency Healing. Paladins, in general, will have a higher “standing, unbuffed, unstanced” AC than most other classes, but fully buffed and stanced, the Fighter will usually surpass the Paladin in AC, but the Paladin will still have a respectable AC on his own.

The Paladin’s Aura is beneficial to the entire party, including himself, providing bonuses to AC, All Saves, and vs. Fear, and possibly even to boost Concentration. Think of the Paladin as a front-line fighter than can self-heal, cast most of his own buffs, and use Lay on Hands for Emergency burst healing to save himself or someone else in the party.

The Paladin won’t usually be the top of the kills list, but he can be, but they make very good melee fighter-types, and their versatility in spellcasting and wand/scroll usage makes them a boon to every party.


Think of the Paladin as a Melee Fighter, not bound by Alignment Restrictions, as in PnP, with no mount.

On the DPS / AC / Saves Chart, here is how an average Paladin matches up against average Fighters & Barbarians (There are always exceptions, but this is the "Average")

DPS:
#1 - Barbarian
#2 - Fighter
#3 - Paladin (and just barely behind the Fighter)

AC:
#1 - Fighter
#2 - Paladin
#3 - Barbarian (a VERY distant 3rd)

Saves:
#1 - Paladin
#2 - Fighter
#3 - Barbarian (Will surpass Fighter on Will Saves when raging)

So with the Paladin, you are getting a balanced, all-around melee type, with self wand-healing ability, some of the best saves in the game, respectable DPS, and good AC.

[Dworkin_of_Amber]

What Race should I choose for my Paladin?
This is an important choice for players, and one that comes up quite frequently in the DDO Paladin Forums. All 6 races in DDO (as of Mod 4.2), are quite playable as Paladins, and each have their plusses and minuses. Yes, even Warforged, with their -2 Wisdom & -2 Charisma can make excellent Paladins.

A quick rundown of the Pros for each Race:

Human: +1 Feat, +1 Skill Point/Level, +1 to 2 Stats, Human Versatility (Mod 5)
Dwarf: Axe/Armor/Tactics/Toughness Enhancements, Racial Saves, Con Bonuses
Warforged: Con Bonuses, Racial Immunities, Follow of Lord of Blades
Elf: Longsword Enhancements, Follower of Sovereign Host
Drow: Shortsword Enhancements, Follower of Vulkoorim, Starting 10 CHA, Drow SR
Halfling: +1 To-Hit, +Dex Bonuses, +1 AC Size Bonus

And a quick rundown of the Cons for each Race:

Human: +1 to 2 Stats instead of +2 to 1 stat
Dwarf: Lower CHA
Warforged: Body Feat is costly, lower CHA & WIS
Elf: Lower CON
Drow: Lower CON
Halfling: Lower STR usually means Dex-based or TWF, Intimidate Penalty

A quick rundown of the Dragonmarks available for each Race:

Human: Mark of Making - Repair Light, Repair Serious, Reconstruct
Human: Mark of Passage - Expeditious Retreat, Dimension Door, Teleport
Human: Mark of Sentinel - Shielf of Faith, Protection from Energy, Globe of Invlunerability
Dwarf: Mark of Warding - Fire Trap, Glyph of Warding, Greater Glyph of Warding
Elf: Mark of Shadow - Invisibility, Displacement, Shadow Walk
Halfling: Mark of Healing - Cure Light, Cure Serious, Heal

But overall, all the races are quite good for Paladins.

For a quick “generalization” of the Racial differences for Paladins (and these are generalizations for the Races, not hard-rules)

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The Human Paladin
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Often uses Bonus Feat for Exotic Weapon: Kopesh, else goes with Longswords
Usually Sword-and-Board
Human Adaptability allows better balance of starting stats vs. Tomes/Items/Class Enhancements
Usually has the highest CHA of all Paladins
Mark of Passage is very useful for a Utility-Oriented Paladin

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The Dwarven Paladin
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Usually sticks to Dwarven Axes, but will use other axes, and occasionally 2-handeds
Often has a higher Dex, due to Racial Armor Mastery
Usually has the most hitpoints of all Paladins

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The Warforged Paladin
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Usually goes with Greatswords for the Lord of Blades Enhancements
Lowest CHA and WIS of most Paladins, but Immunities make up for it

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The Elven Paladin
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Elven Paladins are almost exclusively Longsword users, as the Racial Bonus and Sovereign Host make them deal a lot of damage.
Usually tied with Drow for the lowest Hitpoints of all Paladins, but higher Dex, and occasionally 2-Weapon Fighters
Mark of Shadow is very powerful mark for Displacement

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The Drow Paladin
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Elven Paladins are almost usually Shortsword users, as the Racial Bonus and Sovereign Host make them deal a lot of damage.
Usually tied with Elves for the lowest Hitpoints of all Paladins, but higher Dex, and occasionally 2-Weapon Fighters
Drows also have start with 10 in CHA, INT, and DEX... making a higher Charisma cost less.
Drow SR can help augment a Paladin's Saves for survivability

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The Halfling Paladin
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Halfling Paladins tend to be Finesse Fighters, and very often 2-Weapon due to Racial Dex, and low starting STR
Usually have some of the best saves of all Paladins
Mark of Healing is useful for healing/utility Paladin

[Dworkin_of_Amber]

Ok, So What Race Should I Choose?
A lot depends on your play style, and what items you may have banked.
The Weapons will often choose the Race, as each Race has it’s preferred weapons due to Racial options or the Faith Enhancements. Dwarves, Humans, and Warforged are probably the 3 “best” choices, while Elves/Drow are a very close second. Halflings are a bit less popular, and tend to go towards 2-Weapon, which leaves very little feat room for a Paladin.

Keep in mind the Weapons that lend themselves one way or another:
Kopesh – Human
Axes – Dwarf
Greatsword – Warforged
Longsword – Elf
Shortsword – Drow

Also, remember the Racial differences:
Human: +Feat, +1 Skill, +1 Stat to 2 different Stats
Dwarf: +Con, -Cha
Warforged: +Con, -Cha, -Wis, Immunities
Elf: +Dex, -Con
Drow: +Dex, -Con, SR
Halfling: +Dex, -Str

Then consider the Dragonmark differences:
Human: Mark of Making - Repair Light, Repair Serious, Reconstruct
Human: Mark of Passage - Expeditious Retreat, Dimension Door, Teleport
Human: Mark of Sentinel - Shielf of Faith, Protection from Energy, Globe of Invlunerability
Dwarf: Mark of Warding - Fire Trap, Glyph of Warding, Greater Glyph of Warding
Elf: Mark of Shadow - Invisibility, Displacement, Shadow Walk
Halfling: Mark of Healing - Cure Light, Cure Serious, Heal

One other way to look at Race Recommendations Build Type:
Pure Paladin: Any Race
"IntimiTank" Paladin: Human or Dwarf
Evasion Paladin: Human, Dragonmarked Human, Elf, Dragonmarked Elf, Drow, Dwarf
DPS Paladin (Pure, IntimiTank, or Other): Dwarf, Warforged, Human
Two-Weapon Paladin: Halfling, Elf, Dragonmarked Elf, Drow
Displacement Paladin: Dragonmarked Elf
Healing Paladin: Dragonmarked Halfling

[Dworkin_of_Amber]

"Break Points" for Paladin Builds"
Since this also seems to be a recurring question, I figured I would lay out the entire "Break Point" Chart for all the classes, then discuss the Paladin options below.

Toughness Enhancements (Fighter, Barbarian, Paladin Only):
1 - Toughness 1 (+5 Hit Points)
4 - Toughness 2 (+15 Hit Points)
7 - Toughness 3 (+30 Hit Points)
10 - Toughness 4 (+50 Hit Points)


Class Stat Enhancements (Fighter's Str, Paladin's Cha, Barbarian's Con, etc):
2 - Stat +1
6 - Stat +2
10 - Stat +3


Paladin Break Points:
Pal 1 - Limited Divine Wand Usage, Paladin Aura (+1 AC, +1 Saves)
Pal 2 - Divine Grace (Cha Bonus to Saves), Lay on Hands, Enhancement: CHA +1
Pal 3 - Divine Health (Disease Immunity) & Fear Immunity, Enhancement: Resistance/Bulwark of Good 1, Enhancement: +1 Lay On Hands
Pal 4 - Level 1 Spells, Turn Undead, Divine Favor +1/+1
Pal 6 - Enhancement: CHA +2, Divine Favor +2/+2
Pal 7 - Enhancement: Resistance/Bulwark of Good 2
Pal 8 - Level 2 Spells, Enhancement: +1 Lay on Hands
Pal 9 - Divine Favor +3/+3 (Cap)
Pal 10 - Enhancement: CHA +3
Pal 11 - 30-point Resist Energy, Enhancement: Resistance/Bulwark of Good 3
Pal 12 - Level 3 Spells, Enhancement: +1 LoH
Pal 14 - Level 4 Spells


Fighter Break Points (Not Including Fighter Bonus Feats @ 1/2/4/6/8/10/12/14)
Fgt 1 - Weapon/Tower Shield Proficiencies, Enhancement: Tactics Level 1
Fgt 2 - Enhancement: STR +1
Fgt 3 - Enhancement: Fighter Armor Mastery & Tower Shield Mastery 1
Fgt 4 - Avail Feat: Weapon Specialization, Enhancement: Tactics Level 2
Fgt 6 - Enhancement: STR +2
Fgt 7 - Enhancement: Fighter Armor Mastery & Tower Shield Mastery 2, Enhancement: Tactics Level 3
Fgt 8 - Avail Feat: Greater Weapon Focus
Fgt 10 - Enhancement: STR +3, Enhancement: Tactics Level 4
Fgt 11 - Enhancement: Fighter Armor Mastery & Tower Shield Mastery 3
Fgt 12 - Avail Feat: Greater Weapon Specialization


Barbarian Break Points:
Bbn 1 - Fast Movement, Rage 1/rest (+4 Str, +4 Con, +2 Will)
Bbn 2 - DR 1/-, Uncanny Dodge, Enhancement: CON +1, Extend Rage 1, Extra Rage 1
Bbn 3 - Enhancement: Hardy Rage 1, Power Rage 1
Bbn 4 - Rage 2/rest,
Bbn 5 - DR 2/-, Improved Uncanny Dodge, Enhancement: Extend Rage 2
Bbn 6 - Enhancement: CON +2, Extra Rage 2, Hardy Rage 2, Power Rage 2
Bbn 8 - Rage 3/rest, DR 3/-, Enhancement: Extend Rage 3
Bbn 9 - Enhancement: Hardy Rage 3, Power Rage 3, Critical Rage 1
Bbn 10 - Enhancement: CON +3
Bbn 11 - Greater Rage (+6/+6/+3), DR 4/-, Enhancement: Extend Rage 4, Extra Rage 3
Bbn 12 - Rage 4/rest, Enhancement: Power Rage 4
Bbn 13 - Enhancement: Critical Rage 2
Bbn 14 - Indominable Will (+4 Will), DR 5/-


Rogue Break Points:
Rog 1 - UMD as Class Skill, 1d6 Sneak Attack (SA), Enhancement: Rogue Skills 1 (Disable, Open, Search, Spot, etc)
Rog 2 - Evasion, Enhancement: DEX +1
Rog 3 - 2d6 SA
Rog 4 - Uncanny Dodge, Enhancement: Rogue Skills 2
Rog 5 - 3d6 SA
Rog 6 - Rogue Specialty Enhancements, Enhancement: DEX +2
Rog 7 - 4d6 SA
Rog 8 - Improved Uncanny Dodge, Enhancement: Rogue Skills 3
Rog 9 - 5d6 SA
Rog 10 - Improved Evasion, Enhancement: DEX +3
Rog 11 - 6d6 SA
Rog 12 - Enhancement: Rogue Skills 4
Rog 13 - 7d6 SA, Crippling Strike

***NOTE: As of Mod 6, Rog 10 - Improved Evasion, and Rog 13 - Crippling Strike, will change to "Rog 10 - Rogue Specialty Feat 1" and "Rog 13 - Rogue Specialty Feat 2", with the options of Improved Evasion, Crippling Strike, and Skill Mastery.***


Ranger Break Points:
Rng 1 - Limited Divine Wand Usage, Bow Strength, Favored Enemy #1, Enhancement: Favored Damage 1
Rng 2 - Two-Weapon Fighting, Rapid Shot, Enhancement: DEX +1
Rng 4 - Level 1 Spells
Rng 5 - Favored Enemy #2, Enhancement: Favored Damage 2
Rng 6 - Improved Two-Weapon Fighting, Manyshot, Enhancement: DEX +2, Enhancement: Favored Attack 1
Rng 8 - Level 2 Spells
Rng 9 - Evasion, Enhancement: Favored Damage 3
Rng 10 - Favored Enemy #3, Enhancement: DEX +3
Rng 11 - Precise Shot, Improved Precise Shot, Greater Two-Weapon Fighting
Rng 12 - Level 3 Spells, Enhancement: Favored Attack 2
Rng 13 - Enhancement: Favored Damage 4


Cleric Break Points:
Clr 1 - Divine Wand Usage, Turn Undead, Enhancement: Life Magic 1, Energy of the Zealot 1 (EotZ), Divine Vitality 1
Clr 2 - Enhancement: WIS +1, CHA +1
Clr 3 - Enhancement: Spell Critical Chance 1
Clr 4 - Enhancement: CHA +2, Life Magic 2
Clr 5 - Enhancement: Spell Critical Multiplier 1, EotZ 2
Clr 6 - Enhancement: WIS +2
Clr 7 - Enhancement: Life Magic 3, Spell Critical Chance 2
Clr 9 - Enhancement: Spell Critical Multiplier 2, EotZ 3
Clr 10 - Enhancement: WIS +3, Life Magic 4
Clr 11 - Enhancement: Spell Critical Chance 3
Clr 13 - Enhancement: Spell Critical Multiplier 3, EotZ 4


Wizard Break Points: (Not Counting New spells @ Odd Levels & Spell Slots @ Even Levels)
Wiz 1 - Arcane Wand Usage, Metamagic Feat, Enhancement: Spell Damage 1, Energy of the Scholar 1 (EotS)
Wiz 2 - Enhancement: INT +1, Improved Metamagic 1
Wiz 3 - Enhancement: Spell Critical Chance 1
Wiz 4 - Enhancement: Spell Damage 2
Wiz 5 - Metamagic Feat, Enhancement: Spell Critical Multiplier 1, Spell Penetration 1, EotS 2
Wiz 6 - Enhancement: INT +2, Improved Metamagic 2
Wiz 7 - Enhancement: Spell Damage 3, Spell Critical Chance 2
Wiz 9 - Enhancement: Spell Critical Multiplier 2, Spell Penetration 2, EotS 3
Wiz 10 - Metamagic Feat, Enhancement: INT +3, Improved Metamagic 3, Spell Damage 4
Wiz 11 - Enhancement: Spell Critical Chance 3
Wiz 13 - Enhancement: Spell Critical Multiplier, Spell Penetration 3, EotS 4


Sorcerer Break Points: (Not Counting New spells @ Even Levels & Spell Slots @ Odd Levels)
Sor 1 - Arcane Wand Usage, Enhancement: Spell Damage 1, Energy of the Dragonblooded 1 (EotD)
Sor 2 - Enhancement: CHA +1, Improved Metamagic 1
Sor 3 - Enhancement: Spell Critical Chance 1
Sor 4 - Enhancement: Spell Damage 2
Sor 5 - Enhancement: Spell Critical Multiplier 1, Spell Penetration 1, EotD 2
Sor 6 - Enhancement: CHA +2, Improved Metamagic 2
Sor 7 - Enhancement: Spell Damage 3, Spell Critical Chance 2
Sor 9 - Enhancement: Spell Critical Multiplier 2, Spell Penetration 2, EotD 3
Sor 10 - Enhancement: CHA +3, Improved Metamagic 3, Spell Damage 4
Sor 11 - Enhancement: Spell Critical Chance 3
Sor 13 - Enhancement: Spell Critical Multiplier, Spell Penetration 3, EotD 4


Bard Break Points:
Brd 1 - Limited Divine Wand Usage, UMD as Class Skill, Bardic Music, Fascinate Song, Inspire Courage Song, Level 1 Spells, Enhancement: Extra Song 1, Energy of the Music 1 (EotM)
Brd 2 - Enhancement: CHA +1, Inspired Damage 1, Lingering Song 1
Brd 3 - Inspire Competence Song, Enhancement: Inspired Attack 1
Brd 4 - Level 2 Spells, Enhancement: Extra Song 2
Brd 5 - Enhancement: EotM 2
Brd 6 - Suggestion Song, Enhancement: CHA +2, Bard Specialties, Lingering Song 2, Music of the Dead
Brd 7 - Level 3 Spells, Enhancement: Extra Song 3, Inspired Damage 2
Brd 8 - Improved Inspire Courage (+1), Enhancement: Inspired Attack 2
Brd 9 - Inspire Greatness Song, Enhancement: Music of the Makers, EotM 3
Brd 10 - Level 4 Spells, Enhancement: CHA +3, Extra Song 4, Lingering Song 3
Brd 11 -
Brd 12 - Song of Freedom, Enhancement: Inspired Damage 12, EotM 4
Brd 13 - Enhancement: Inspired Attack 3
Brd 14 - Improved Inspire Courage (+2), Enhancement: Lingering Song 4



NOTES ON MULTICLASSING A PALADIN:
I have included all 9 Classes in this guide, as it is useful to everyone, but remember that Barbarian and Bard are not allowed due to alignment restrictions.

Common Options for Multiclassing:
Fighter 1-3 - Splash for Bonus Feats & Enhancements, a little more DPS focus
Fighter 7 - Max AC build or 2Handed with moderate AC & Saves
Fighter 10 or 12 - Primary Fighter with Paladin Splash for Wand Usage (1), Divine Grace (2), Divine Health(3), Spell Casting (4)
Ranger 1-2 - Dex Based/Ranged Build for Bow Strength(1), or Free TWF(2)
Ranger 12 - Paladin 2 Splash for Saves & Heavy Armor
Rogue 2 - Evasion, +1 Dex, +1d6 Sneak Attack, +Skill Points (UMD)
Sorcerer 1 - SP, 3x L1 Spells, Arcane Wand Usage

Uncommon Options for Multiclassing
Cleric 1 - More Turn Undead, Full Divine Wand Usage, Divine Vitality 1, More SP
Wizard 1 - Same as Sorcerer, but uncommon due to lower INT than CHA for most Paladins


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So, looking at that, the "really" important break points for Paladin are Pal 2, Pal 7, and Pal 11. Paladin 2 is used for a Paladin Splash for the Paladin base Aura and Divine Grace. Paladin 11 is the most popular mostly-Paladin build. Paladin 7 is a newer development, mostly for a Paladin/Fighter hybrid (DPS or Intimtanks), to leverage BoG/RoG 2 with the FAM/FTSM 2 Enhancements for MAX AC, or a Maximized Standing AC, with Divine Favor for DPS.

Don't discount the power of Divine Favor... while it can be dispelled, it gives the To-Hit Equivalent of +2 STR & Weapon Focus & Greater Weapon Focus, and the Damage Equivalent of +2 STR & Weapon Specialization!

A lot of the "break point" depends on what you want your Paladin to do, and what items/tomes/equipment you have available. 7/7 Splits tend to be very demanding on items and tomes, so I don't recommend them for less experienced players.

[Dworkin_of_Amber]

Items and Equipment of interest to most Paladins?

Note: While it is true that many Paladin builds are very Item-Dependent, and can have some steep requirements, do not let that turn you off to my build templates. Yes, most of my build include multiple +1 Tomes and +6 Stat Items, but they all work just as well with no Tome and a +5 Stat Item (which are VERY easy to pull or cheap to get on the AH). Take any of my Build Templates, and subtract the +1 Tome and the +6 Item, and put a +5 in it's place, and you will still have an Even Number, or with the addition or subtraction of a Racial or Class Stat Enhancement. This means it is perfectly acceptable to build these, as listed, without the uber gear, and plan for +5 Stat Items and No Tome... then if, down the road, you get a Tome or a +6 Stat Item, then BONUS!!! Equip/Eat it, and tinker with your Enhancements to make use of it. Don't be scared off by the high-end stuff.


The Definitive Static Loot List is full of interesting loot for all classes, but there are some items that are of special interest to many Paladin Builds. I will not list all of the Static/Raid gear that is of interest to a Paladin, but more a 'guidline' of what most Paladins will end up with item/slot wise. I am going to avoid Raid Loot in this list.

Armor: +5 Full Plate / +5 Mithral Full Plate / +5 Mithral Breastplate (Evasion)

Shield: +5 Mithral Heavy Shield / +5 Adamantine Heavy Shield / Sorrel / Fanion / Bulwark of Storm's Fist

Goggles: Spectacular Optics / Sandstorm Goggles

Helm: +WIS / Minos Legens / Tradusor

Necklace: +WIS / +CON / Nightforge Gorget

Trinket: Mummified Bat / Bloodstone / Pearl / Magi

Cloak: +CHA / Greater Resistance Item

Belt: +CON / +STR / Heavy Fort / Greater False Life

Gloves: +DEX / +STR / Rabbit Gloves (Rogue Skills)

Boots: Feather Fall / +DEX / Striding

Bracers: Chaosguarde / Ethereal Bracers / +STR

Ring: STR/DEX/CON/WIS/CHA / Ring of Shadows / Ring of the Ancestors / Greater False Life / Feather Falling


Here is the loadout and some of my carried optional items for my Level 14 Holy Avenger (11 Pal / 2 Rog / 1 Fighter)
Armor: +5 Ice Guard Mithral Breastplate of Lesser Cold Resistance
Shield: +5 Mithral Heavy Shield
Goggles: Spectacular Optics, Kundarak Delving Goggles
Helm: Minos Legens
Necklace: Wisdom +5, Golden Cartouche
Trinket: Pearl of Power X, Pharlian Pendant of Time
Cloak: +5 Cha w/ False Life Clicky, Greater Fire Resist, Greater Electric Resist
Belt: +6 Con, Planar Gird
Gloves: +5 Dex
Boots: +25% Striders, Feather Falling Boots, Switchblade Boots (Bluff +10)
Bracers: Chaosguarde
Ring 1: +6 Str
Ring 2: Greater False Life, Ring of the Ancestors, Feather Falling Ring, Underwater Action Ring

As for Raid Loot and upgrades, I would look to upgrade as follows:
Armor to KDS (No net AC change, but it is nice armor, and leaves room for future Dex growth)
Shield to Fanion/Sorrel
Goggles to Sandstorm Goggles
Necklace to +6 Wis
Trinket to Good Luck Stone / Battle Coin / Pouch of Jerky / Bloodstone / Mummified Bat
Cloak to Wretched Twilight / +6 Cha
Gloves to +6 Dex / Vile Blasphemy / Seven-Fingered Gloves
Boots to Kundarak Delving Boots / Boots of the Innocent
Bracers to Ethereal Bracers


Now, the only real difference between my current loadout and the desired loadout for a Pure Paladin or a Paladin/Fighter type is the armor. These build would look for +5 Full Plate / +5 Adamantine Full Plate / +5 Mithral Full Plate, or something like that. They probably would not be interested in the +UMD Items (Seven Fingered Gloves or Golden Cartouche), and a few other minor tweaks, but I would think this would be a really desired load-out for any Paladin-based build (with the Armor being the one real exception).

[Dworkin_of_Amber]

The Paladin DPS Discussion

Since there seems to be a constantly recurring theme of discussing DPS and comparisons to Fighters and other classes, I figured it was time to try to take a definitive look at Paladin DPS vs. the other classes.

Assumptions: 32-point builds, 1750 Favor Tomes, +6 Stat Items, Min/Max-style builds based on the predominate “build templates” found on the forums. We are also going to ignore the Action Boosts, as both Fighters and Paladin get them equally, and they are 20-second buffs. Additionally, I am going to skip things like Greater Heroism, and Recitation, and the like, as they are party-buffs, not self-buffs (ignoring UMD as well), and they hit both classes equally. I want to look at “What can a Paladin do on his own and what can the fighter do on his own” scenario. I am also looking at Sword-And-Board builds here.

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“Template Builds”

Paladin: L14 Pure Human Paladin w/ Kopesh [STR: 17 + 3 (Levels) + 2 (1750 Tome) + 6 (Item) = 28 (+9)]
Human Fighter: L14 Pure Human Fighter w/ Kopesh: [STR: 18 + 3 (Levels) + 2 (1750 Tome) + 1 (Human STR 1) + 2 (Fighter’s STR 2) + 6 (Item) = 32 (+11)
Dwarven Fighter: L14 Pure Dwarven Fighter w/ Dwarven Axe: [STR: 17 + 3 (Levels) + 2 (1750 Tome) + 2 (Fighter’s STR 2) + 6 (Item) = 30 (+10)

NOTE: The “Dwarven Fighter” can also be a Elf with Longswords or Drow with Rapiers.

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To-Hit:

Paladin:
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14 – BAB
9 – STR
5 - +5 Weapon
1 – Weapon Focus
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+29 To Hit (Standing)
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3 – Divine Favor
-5 – Power Attack
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+27 To Hit

Human Fighter:
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14 – BAB
11 – STR
5 - +5 Weapon
1 – Weapon Focus
1 – Greater Weapon Focus
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+32 To Hit
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-5 – Power Attack
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+27 To Hit

Dwarven Fighter:
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14 – BAB
10 – STR
5 - +5 Weapon
1 – Weapon Focus
1 – Greater Weapon Focus
2 – Dwarven Axe Attack
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+33 To Hit (Standing)
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-5 – Power Attack
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+28 To Hit

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Damage

Paladin:
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9 – Str
5 – Weapon
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+14 Damage
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3 – Divine Favor
5 – Power Attack
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+22 Damage

Human Fighter:
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11 – Str
5 – Weapon
2 – Weapon Specialization
2 – Greater Weapon Specialization
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+20 Damage
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5 – Power Attack
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+25 Damage

Dwarven Fighter:
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10 – Str
5 – Weapon
2 – Weapon Specialization
2 – Greater Weapon Specialization
2 – Dwarven Axe Damage 2
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+21 Damage
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5 – Power Attack
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+26 Damage

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Ok, so the tally:

Paladin: +27 To Hit / +22 Damage
Human Fighter: +27 To Hit / +25 Damage
Dwarven Fighter: +28 To Hit / +26 Damage

Now some will argue that the Paladin score should be -3/-3 due to Divine Favor being a buff, but as it is an important part of the Paladin’s arsenal (and yes, I know the whole argument about vs. Beholders and other mobs that dispel buffs), but most Paladins have enough SP for DF to be running for most all melee encounters.

So, what’s the verdict… +1 To Hit and +3/+4 to Damage difference on a Paladin vs. a Fighter. That is really a tie in To-Hit, and a small difference in Damage, so you really cannot say that a Paladin is inferior in DPS vs. a 14 Fighter. Additionally, if you look at a Elf/Drow/Dwarf Paladin, you add +2/+2, and the Racial Paladin is now +1 To Hit and -1/-2 damage vs. the Fighter and the Racial Fighter… again, making it a dead heat. (and actually, the Elf and Drow Paladin can be +2 To Hit due to the Faith Tenants (Follower of Vulkoorim/Silver Flame/etc)

Now, if you look at 2HF Paladin vs. 2HF Fighter, you will end up with basically the same numbers, and the same with TWF, so the reality is that as of Level 14, the DPS potential from a Paladin and a Fighter are basically equal.

Now, when it comes to Burst DPS with clickies and short-term buffs, the Fighter can pull ahead with a DF clickie, while all other buffs hit both of them equally… so best case, fully buffed and fluffed, the Fighter is +4 To hit and +8 to Damage over the Paladin, for 20-30 seconds. That is pretty minimal to me.

NOTE: Both Divine Favor and Recitation are Luck bonuses, so they do not stack. Divine Favor caps at +3/+3 for a Level 9 Paladin (or L9 Caster Level), Recitation from a L14 Cleric is +2/+2

[Dworkin_of_Amber]

Ok, now lets see some Build Templates!

After seeing person after person post Paladin builds requesting feedback, and most of them making similar mistakes, over and over, I figured it was time to put together a "Paladin Template Build" for people to work from.

These are not the most Min/Maxed-uber-l33t builds (but some are close), but an attempt at a solid Paladin Build, for the races most suited to Paladins (Human, Elf/Drow, Dwarf, Warforged), and provide a simple starting-point for most builds. I will also attempt to cover some of the more popular variations, to give everyone a starting point.

Important Things to remember:
1) Paladin spell-casting is based on current WIS, not base WIS. So 8 Wis + 3 Item allows casting of Level 1 Spells

Assumptions:
1) All builds will be 32-point or Drow
2) All Build will use +6 Stat Items, +1 Tomes, and a 1750 Favor Tome.
3) No Build will be based around Raid Loot, but some may show some as optional.
4) Hit Points are reported without False Life Items, but include Draconic Vitality (Agents of Argonnessen Favor rank 2)
5) Saves, To-Hit & Damage scores will include Greater Heroism, potions, and other self-buffs. They will NOT include Cleric/Bard/Wizard buffs that cannot be self-cast (i.e. Recitation, Good Hope, etc)
6) Many of these builds are geared towards +5 Mithral Full Plate. If you don't have this, then target 12 Dex (+1) to max out +5 Full Plate.

+1 Tomes are easy to come by, as are +6 Stat Items. If you don't want to plan for them, then just modify your personal build. Remember that dropping the +1 Tome and down to a +5 Stat Item will still result in an Even Ability Score, so that’s one easy way to drop the high equipment/tome requirements of some of these builds.




Basic Human Paladin
Level 14 Human Paladin

Stats
----------------
STR: 17 + 3 (Levels) + 2 (1750 Tome) + 6 (Item) = 28 (+9)
DEX: 8 + 1 (Tome) + 1 (Human Adapt Dex 1) + 6 (Item) = 16 (+3)
CON: 15 + 1 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 22 (+6)
INT: 8
WIS: 11 + 1 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 18 (+4)
CHA: 15 + 1 (Tome) + 1 (Human Adapt Cha 1) + 3 (Paladin Cha 3) + 6 (Item) = 26 (+8)
----------------


Feats
----------------
1) Weapon Focus: Slashing
1) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Kopesh
3) Power Attack
6) Toughness
9) Improved Critical: Slashing
12) Power Critical
----------------


Hit Points
----------------
10 - Heroic Durability
140 - Paladin 14
84 - Con Bonus
16 - Toughness
50 - Paladin Toughness 4
10 - Draconic Vitality
----------------
320 Hit Points


Spell Points
----------------
145 – Paladin 14 Base
92 – Wis Bonus
----------------
237 Spell Points – Without Enhancements or Items



Saves
----------------
9 / 4 / 4 - Paladin 14 Base
6 / 3 / 4 - Stat Mods
4 / 4 / 4 - Resistance +4 Item
8 / 8 / 8 - Divine Grace
3 / 3 / 3 - Paladin Aura (w/ RoG 2)
4 / 4 / 4 - Greater Heroism
----------------
34 / 26 / 27


To-Hit
----------------
14 - BAB
9 - Strength
5 - +5 Weapon
4 - Paladin Attack Boost 3 / Human Versatility Attack 3
4 - Greater Heroism
1 - Weapon Focus
1 - Haste
1 - Rage Potion
3 - Divine Favor
----------------
+42 to hit
----------------
-5 - Power Attack
----------------
+37 to hit w/ Power Attack


Damage
----------------
9 - Strength
5 - +5 Weapon
3 - Divine Favor
1 - Rage Potion
----------------
+18 Damage
----------------
5 - Power Attack
----------------
+23 Damage w/ Power Attack


AC
----------------
10 - Base
13 - +5 Mithral Full Plate
3 - Dexterity
7 - +5 Mithral Heavy Shield
3 - Spectacular Optics
2 - Chaosguarde
1 - Paladin Aura
2 - Bulwark of Good
2 - Ring of Balance (Invaders)
----------------
43 AC Standing
----------------
2 - Defensive Fighting
1 - Haste Potion/Spell
1 - Shield of Faith +3
4 - Human Versatility AC Boost
----------------
51 AC Buffed


Enhancements
----------------
Bulwark of Good 2
Resistance of Good 2
Paladin Toughness 4
Human Versatility 3 / Paladin Attack Boost 3
Paladin Charisma 3
Human Adaptability 1 – Dexterity
Human Adaptability 2 – Charisma
Extra Lay On Hands 2
----------------


Items
----------------
Goggles: Spectacular Optics
Helm: +6 WIS
Necklace: +6 CON / BAM Necklace (100% Fortification)
Trinket: Mummified Bat / Pearl of Power / Wizardry Trinket
Cloak: +6 CHA
Belt: +6 CON
Gloves: +6 STR
Boots: +6 DEX
Bracers: Chaosguarde
Ring: Ring of Shadows
Ring: +4 Resistance
----------------

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Convert Human to Dwarf:

Starting Stats
----------------
STR: 17 + 3 (Levels) + 2 (1750 Tome) + 6 (Item) = 28 (+9)
DEX: 9 + 1 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 16 (+3)
CON: 17 + 1 (Tome) + 2 (Dwarven Con 2) + 6 (Item) = 26 (+8)
INT: 8
WIS: 10 + 6 (Item) = 16 (+3)
CHA: 13 + 1 (Tome) + 2 (Paladin Cha 2) + 6 (Item) = 22 (+6)
----------------

Feat/Enhancement Changes
----------------
-Weapon Proficiency: Kopesh
Paladin Charisma 3 à Paladin Charisma 2
Human Adaptability 1 & 2 à Dwarven Constitution 2
+Dwarven Toughness 1
+Dwarven Axe Attack 2
+Dwarven Axe Damage 2
----------------

Net difference
----------------
-1 Skill Point/Level (Total of 1/level vs. 2/level)
-2 Reflex Save
-3 Will Save
+33 Hit Points
+2 to Hit (Wielding Axe)
+2 Damage (Wielding Axe)
+ Dwarven Racial Abilities
----------------


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Convert Human to Warforged


Starting Stats
----------------
STR: 17 + 3 (Levels) + 2 (1750 Tome) + 6 (Item) = 28 (+9)
DEX: 8 + 6 (Item) = 14 (+2)
CON: 17 + 1 (Tome) + 2 (Dwarven Con 2) + 6 (Item) = 26 (+8)
INT: 8
WIS: 9 + 1 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 16 (+3)
CHA: 13 + 1 (Tome) + 2 (Paladin Cha 2) + 6 (Item) = 22 (+6)
----------------

Feat/Enhancement Changes
----------------
-Weapon Proficiency: Kopesh
-Power Critical Feat
+Adamantine Body
Paladin Charisma 3 à Paladin Charisma 2
Human Adaptability 1 & 2 à Warforged Constitution 2
+Warforged Healers Friend
+Follower of Lord of Blades
+Bladesworn Transformation
----------------

Net Difference
----------------
-1 Skill Point/Level (Total of 1/level vs. 2/level)
-3 to Reflex Save
-2 to Will Save
+28 Hit Points
+1 To Hit (Greatswords)
-2 AC (Adamantine Body)
+Bladesworn Transformation - +4 STR, +4 Damage, +4 AC
+DR 2/Adamantine
+Warforged Immunities
----------------



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Convert Human to Drow

Starting Stats
----------------
STR: 17 + 3 (Levels) + 2 (1750 Tome) + 6 (Item) = 28 (+9)
DEX: 10 + 6 (Item) = 16 (+3)
CON: 13 + 1 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 20 (+5)
INT: 10
WIS: 10 + 6 (Item) = 16 (+3)
CHA: 15 + 1 (Tome) + 2 (Paladin Cha 2) + 6 (Item) = 24 (+7)
----------------

Feat/Enhancement Changes
----------------
-Weapon Proficiency Kopesh
Paladin Charisma 3 à Paladin Charisma 2
-Human Adaptability 1 & 2
+Drow Melee Attack 2
+Drow Melee Damage 2
+Follower of Vulkoor
Weapon Focus: Slashing à Weapon Focus: Piercing
Improved Critical: Slashing à Improved Critical: Piercing
----------------

Net difference
----------------
-1 to Fort
-14 Hit Points
+3 to Hit (Wielding Shortsword)
+2 Damage (Wielding Shortsword)
+Drow Racial Abilities
+Drow SR
----------------


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Convert Human to Elf

Stats
----------------
STR: 17 + 3 (Levels) + 2 (1750 Tome) + 6 (Item) = 28 (+9)
DEX: 10 + 6 (Item) = 16 (+3)
CON: 13 + 1 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 20 (+5)
INT: 8
WIS: 11 + 1 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 18 (+4)
CHA: 15 + 1 (Tome) + 2 (Paladin Cha 2) + 6 (Item) = 24 (+7)
----------------

Feat/Enhancement Changes
----------------
-Weapon Proficiency Kopesh
Paladin Charisma 3 à Paladin Charisma 2
-Human Adaptability 1 & 2
+Elven Melee Attack 2
+Elven Melee Damage 2
+Follower of the Silver Host
----------------

Net difference
----------------
-1 Skill Point/Level (Total of 1/level vs. 2/level)
-1 to Fort
-14 Hit Points
+3 to Hit (Wielding Longsword)
+2 Damage (Wielding Longsword)
+ Elf Racial Abilities
----------------

[Dworkin_of_Amber]

AC & IntimiTank Builds

These are Paladin/Fighter mixes, with Combat Expertise and Power Attack for both DPS and Intimidate/Tanking roles. These are built for Humans and Dwarves only... while they could be adapted, I am not going to work out the details here.

Intimidate is not required on these, if you don't want. Simply put the skill points elsewhere.

Interestingly, the builds all come out very close in AC and To-Hit/Damage... if with 11P/3F, 12F/2P, and 7P/7F splits, they are all very similar in scores. I think the 7/7 Split is the most interesting, in that it allows the Level 2 Paladin Aura Enhancements, as well as STR 2 / CHA 2, +2/+2 Divine Favor, Weapon Specialization, and FAM/DAM 2 & FTSM2. In theory, this build should have one of the highest attainable Armor Classes, given the access to +6 to Max Dex Bonus on Armor (That could make +5 MFP with +9 Dex Bonus!!!), as well as a balanced DPS approach.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Basic Human Paladin/Fighter Hybrids
Level 11 Paladin / Level 3 Fighter “IntimiTank”

Stats
----------------
STR: 17 + 3 (Levels) + 2 (1750 Tome) 1 (Fighter’s STR 1) + 1 (Human Adaptability 1) + 6 (Item) = 30 (+10)
DEX: 13 + 1 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 20 (+5)
CON: 13 + 1 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 20 (+5)
INT: 13 + 1 (Tome) = 14 (+2)
WIS: 8 + 6 (Item) = 14 (+2)
CHA: 12 + 1 (Tome) + 1 (Human Adapt Cha 1) + 2 (Paladin Cha 2) + 6 (Item) = 22 (+6)
----------------


Level Progression
----------------
L1-L2 – Fighter
L3-L13 – Paladin
L14 - Fighter


Feats
----------------
1) Weapon Focus: Slashing
1) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Kopesh
1B) Combat Expertise
2B) Dodge
3) Power Attack
6) Improved Trip
9) Improved Critical: Slashing
12) Toughness
----------------


Skills
----------------
Intimidate +1/level
Jump +1/level
Balance +0.5/level
----------------


Hit Points
----------------
10 - Heroic Durability
110 - Paladin 11
30 – Fighter 3
70 - Con Bonus
16 - Toughness
50 - Paladin Toughness 4
10 - Draconic Vitality
----------------
306 Hit Points


Spell Points
----------------
140 – Paladin 11 Base
40 – Wis Bonus
----------------
180 Spell Points – Without Enhancements or Items



Saves
----------------
7 / 3 / 3 - Paladin 11 Base
3 / 1 / 1 – Fighter 3 Base
5 / 5 / 2 - Stat Mods
4 / 4 / 4 - Resistance +4 Item
6 / 6 / 6 - Divine Grace
3 / 3 / 3 - Paladin Aura (w/ RoG 2)
4 / 4 / 4 - Greater Heroism
----------------
32 / 26 / 23


To-Hit
----------------
14 - BAB
11 - Strength
5 - +5 Weapon
4 - Paladin Attack Boost 3 / Human Versatility Attack 3
4 - Greater Heroism
1 - Weapon Focus
1 - Haste
1 - Rage Potion
3 - Divine Favor
----------------
+44 to hit
----------------
-5 - Power Attack / Combat Expertise
----------------
+39 to hit w/ Power Attack or Combat Expertise


Damage
----------------
11 - Strength
5 - +5 Weapon
3 - Divine Favor
1 - Rage Potion
----------------
+20 Damage
----------------
5 - Power Attack
----------------
+25 Damage w/ Power Attack


AC
----------------
10 - Base
13 - +5 Mithral Full Plate
5 – Dexterity
9 - +5 Mithral Tower Shield
3 - Spectacular Optics
1 – Dodge
2 - Chaosguarde
1 - Paladin Aura
2 - Bulwark of Good
2 - Ring of Balance (Invaders)
----------------
48 AC Standing
----------------
5 – Combat Expertise
1 - Haste Potion/Spell
1 - Shield of Faith +3
----------------
55 AC Self-Buffed
----------------
1 – Seal of the Earth (+1 over Invaders Ring)
3 – Chattering Ring
1 – “Of Parrying” Item
----------------
60 AC Self-Buffed w/ Raid Gear
----------------
2 – Ranger’s Barkskin (over Seal of the Earth)
1 – Halfling’s Heroes Companion
2 – Recitation
4 – Human Versatility AC Boost 3
1 – L12+ Paladin Aura
----------------
70 AC w/ Party Buffs & Raid Gear


Enhancements
----------------
Bulwark of Good 2
Resistance of Good 2
Paladin Toughness 4
Human Versatility 3 / Paladin Attack Boost 3
Paladin Charisma 3
Human Adaptability 1 – Strength
Human Adaptability 2 – Charisma
Extra Lay On Hands 2
Fighter Strength 1
Fighter Critical Accuracy 1
Fighter Item Defense 1
Fighter Armor Mastery 1
----------------


Items
----------------
Goggles: Spectacular Optics
Helm: +6 WIS
Necklace: +6 CON / BAM Necklace (100% Fortification)
Trinket: Mummified Bat / Pearl of Power / Wizardry Trinket
Cloak: +6 CHA
Belt: +6 CON
Gloves: +6 STR
Boots: +6 DEX
Bracers: Chaosguarde
Ring: Ring of Shadows
Ring: +4 Resistance
----------------

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Convert Human to Dwarf:

Same Starting Stats

Feat/Enhancement Changes
----------------
-Weapon Proficiency: Kopesh
Paladin Charisma 2 �* Paladin Charisma 1
Human Adaptability 1 & 2 �* Dwarven Constitution 2
-Fighter STR 1
+Dwarven Toughness
+Dwarven Axe Attack 2
+Dwarven Axe Damage 2
----------------

Net difference
----------------
-1 Skill Point/Level (Total of 4/level vs. 5/level) – Split Jump & Balance Points
Saves: 32 / 25 / 23
Hit Points 306-356
To Hit: 42 (w/ Axe) (35 w/ Power Attack / Combat Expertise)
Damage: 22 (w/ Axe) (26 w/ Power Attack)






This Build can also be reversed to a 12 Fighter / 2 Paladin Build.

Starting Stats
----------------
Increase Dex to 14
Drop INT to 12
Use INT Tome before Level 2
----------------

Feat/Enhancement Changes
----------------
Take Combat Expertise @ Level 2
Take Dodge @ Level 1
+Weapon Specialization: Slashing
+Greater Weapon Focus: Slashing
+Stunning Blow
+Shield Mastery
+Improved Shield Mastery
Paladin Charisma 2 �* Paladin Charisma 1
+Fighter Strength 3
Human Adaptability Charisma �* Strength 1
Paladin Toughness 4 �* Fighter Toughness 4
-All other Paladin Enhancements
+Standard Fighter Enhancements
+Fighter Armor Mastery 3
+Fighter Tower Shield Mastery 2
----------------

Net difference
----------------
-1 Skill Point/Level (Total of 4/level vs. 5/level) – Split Jump & Balance Points
Saves: 32 / 25 / 22
Hit Points 320-370
To Hit: 41 (w/ Axe) (36 w/ Power Attack / Combat Expertise)
Damage: 24 (w/ Axe) (29 w/ Power Attack)
AC: 49 Standing, 71 Max
----------------







Also, this can be built as a Fighter 7 / Paladin 7 Split
Recommended Race: Dwarf

Starting Stats
----------------
17 / 15 / 11 / 12 / 8 / 12
----------------

Feat/Enhancement Changes
----------------
-Shield Mastery
-Improved Shield Mastery
-Greater Weapon Focus
Fighter Strength 3 �* 2
Paladin Charisma 1 �*2
+Dwarven Armor Mastery 1
+Dwarven Toughness
+Paladin Resistance of Good 2
+Paladin Bulwark of Good 2
+Extra Lay on Hands ½
+Dwarven Axe Attack
+Dwarven Axe Damage

Net difference
----------------
-1 Skill Point/Level (Total of 4/level vs. 5/level) – Split Jump & Balance Points
Saves: 31 / 26 / 22
Hit Points 306-356
To Hit: 44 (w/ Axe) (39 w/ Power Attack / Combat Expertise)
Damage: 22 (w/ Axe) (27 w/ Power Attack)
AC: 50 Standing, 71 Max
----------------

[Dworkin_of_Amber]

DPS Focus

Paladin 2-Handed DPS Build “The Vindicator”
This is a 2-Handed DPS Build, originally by Grenfell, that he has asked to be added to the Build Guide.

This is a DPS-focused build, going 2-Handed Fighting, with Dwarf for the Axe Enhancements, and a 7/7 Fighter/Paladin Split for DPS Feats. Somewhat of a different focus than the other Paladin builds in this section. This build is also nice, in that it has real Fighter-class DPS, and the ability to self-heal, and as soon as the level cap is raised again, self-cast 20-points resists

PS: Gren, I played with the stats/tomes/enhancements a little bit, to make room for Item Defense


NOTE: I am also going to start putting in the feats and Level Progression all the way to 20 for these builds, as I can. I will not update the Stats, as there won’t be any change to base stats for 20 levels. Assuming most “important” stats will start Odd, factoring in +5 Levels, +5 Tomes, +2/+3 Racial Enhancements, and +3/+4 Class Enhancements… It should all be able to be worked out in the long run.


Level 14 Dwarf
7 Paladin / 7 Fighter

Stats
----------------
STR: 17 + 3 (Levels) + 2 (Fighter’s Str 2) + 2 (1750 Tome) + 6 (Item) = 30 (+10)
DEX: 12 + 6 (Item) = 18 (+4)
CON: 16 + 1 (Tome) + 1 (Dwarven Con 1) + 6 (Item) = 24 (+7)
INT: 8
WIS: 11 + 1 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 18 (+4)
CHA: 12 + 1 (Tome) + 1 (Paladin Cha 1) + 6 (Item) = 20 (+5)
----------------


Level Progression
----------------
Level 1-7 – Paladin
Level 8-14 – Fighter
Level 15-18 – Paladin
Level 19 – Fighter
Level 20 – Either Paladin or Fighter (for a 11P/9F or 12P/8F split)
----------------



Feats
----------------
1) Two-Handed Fighting
3) Power Attack
6) Improved Two-Handed Fighting
8B) Improved Critical: Slashing
9) Toughness
9B) Weapon Focus: Slashing
11B) Greater Two-Handed Fighting
12) Mental Toughness
13B) Weapon Specialization: Slashing
15) ???
15B) Power Critical
17B) Dodge (w/ +1 Tome) / Improved Critical: Bludgeoning
18) ???
19B) Greater Weapon Focus: Slashing


I’ll be honest, I’m really not sure on the high-level feats for this build.
----------------


Hit Points
----------------
20 - Heroic Durability
70 - Paladin 7
70 – Fighter 7
98 - Con Bonus
16 - Toughness
50 - Dwarven Toughness 4
15 – Paladin Toughness 2
10 - Draconic Vitality
----------------
349 Hit Points


Spell Points
----------------
40 – Paladin 11 Base
80 – Wis Bonus
75 – Mental Toughness
15 – Dwarven Faith 1
20 – Paladin Energy of the Templar
----------------
230 Spell Points – Without Items



Saves
----------------
5 / 2 / 2 - Paladin 7 Base
5 / 2 / 2 - Fighter 7 Base
7 / 4 / 4 - Stat Mods
4 / 4 / 4 - Resistance +4 Item
5 / 5 / 5- Divine Grace
3 / 3 / 3 - Paladin Aura (w/ RoG 2)
4 / 4 / 4 - Greater Heroism
----------------
33 / 24 / 24


To-Hit
----------------
14 - BAB
15 – Strength (Two-Handed Weapon)
5 - +5 Weapon
4 - Greater Heroism
1 - Weapon Focus
2 – Dwarven Axe Attack
1 - Haste
1 - Rage Potion
2 - Divine Favor
----------------
+45 to hit
----------------
-10 - Power Attack
----------------
+35 to hit w/ Power Attack


Damage
----------------
15 - Strength (Two-Handed Weapon)
5 - +5 Weapon
2 – Weapon Specialization
2 – Dwarven Axe Damage
2 - Divine Favor
1 - Rage Potion
----------------
+27 Damage
----------------
10 - Power Attack
----------------
+37 Damage w/ Power Attack


AC
----------------
10 - Base
13 - +5 Mithral Full plate
4 – Dexterity (FAM or DAM 1)
3 - Spectacular Optics
2 - Chaosguarde
1 - Paladin Aura
2 - Bulwark of Good
2 - Ring of Balance (Invaders)
----------------
37 AC Standing
----------------
4 – Shield of Faith
1 – Haste
----------------
42 AC Self-Buffed
----------------
3 – Ranger’s Barkskin
2 – Recitation
1 – L11+ Paladin Aura
----------------
48 AC Buffed
----------------
3 – Chattering Ring
----------------
51 AC Buffed w/ Raid Loot
----------------
5 - +5 Mithral Tower Shield
2 – Defensive Fighting
----------------
58 AC in “Turtle” Mode


Enhancements
----------------
Dwarven Axe Attack 2
Dwarven Axe Damage 2
Dwarven Constitution 1
Dwarven Faith 1
Dwarven Toughness 4
Fighter Armor Mastery 1
Fighter Critical Accuracy 1
Fighter Item Defense 1
Fighter Strength 2
Paladin Bulwark of Good 2
Paladin Resistance of Good 2
Paladin Energy of the Templar 1
Paladin Extra Lay on Hands 1
Paladin Charisma 1
Paladin Toughness 2
----------------

[Dworkin_of_Amber]

Basic Human Evasion Paladin

The Evasion Paladin has some important changes. 2 Levels of Rogue, late in the build, to max out UMD, and put some additional skill points into Jump/Balance. Evasion requires Light or No Armor, so Mithral Breastplate or KDS is your targeted Armor. Both work out to the same AC, but KDS has +1 Max Dex Bonus, but you won't have 22 Dex to use it. The Final Level (14) it is recommended to go Fighter, as Paladin 12+ hold little of interest for this build, nor do additional Rogue Levels. The Bonus Feats will help, and the eventual Fighter's STR, other enhancements, and Bonus Feats will help with the DPS.

Evasion makes this build extremely survivable. You are mostly immune to enemy casters (not Beholders), as your Reflex Save + Evasion means you usually only take damage if you roll a 1. Evasion also lets you ignore most traps... and AoE attacks like Velah's Breath Weapon. This build also has a high UMD, allowing you to use Raise Dead Scrolls, Heal Scrolls, Wall of Fire, etc.... Level 5 Scrolls are virtually auto-success, and Level 6 Scrolls are 95%+ success... giving you a *LOT* of flexibility in the build. Later Levels (15+) would go Fighter to 19, then probably Rogue again at 20 to max out skills, plus there is no Bonus Feat @ 20 as it would be Fighter 7.

Note that this is not a flat-out DPS build, but it does deal out some really nice damage. For that reason, I also suggest the option of skipping Power Attack, and getting Least Dragonmark of Passage. This give a passive +2 Balance, plus 3x Expedition Retreats (self-cast only) with a duration in minutes equal to your Level (so 3x 14-min ER's @ L14). Also, at Level 15, you might want to get the Lesser Dragonmark upgrade, as this gives you Dimension Door!

NOTE: This template is based on the Holy Avenger Build. This is a more "basic" version of the Holy Avenger, and includes conversations over to all the other races. I would use this template for most newer players, at is a little more forgiving for the lack of +1 Tomes and +6 Items. The current "Holy Avenger" build, as found in my Signature, is more strict on items and Tomes.

Level 14 Human Paladin
11 Paladin / 2 Rogue / 1 Fighter

Stats
----------------
STR: 17 + 3 (Levels) + 2 (1750 Tome) + 6 (Item) = 28 (+9)
DEX: 12 + 1 (Tome) + 1 (Rogue Dex 1) + 6 (Item) = 20 (+5)
CON: 15 + 1 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 22 (+6)
INT: 8
WIS: 9 + 1 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 16 (+3)
CHA: 14 + 1 (Tome) + 1 (Human Adapt Cha 1) + 2 (Paladin Cha 2) + 6 (Item) = 24 (+7)
----------------


Feats
----------------
1) Weapon Focus: Slashing (Swap later for Least Dragonmark - Dimension Door)
1) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Kopesh
3) Least Dragonmark of Passage (3x Expedition Retreat. Duration=Level in min)
6) Skill Focus: UMD
9) Improved Critical: Slashing
12) Toughness
14) (Fighter Bonus) Power Attack
----------------


Hit Points
----------------
10 - Heroic Durability
110 - Paladin 11
10 – Fighter 1
12 – Rogue 2
84 - Con Bonus
16 - Toughness
50 - Paladin Toughness 4
10 - Draconic Vitality
----------------
312 Hit Points


Spell Points
----------------
140 – Paladin 11 Base
60 – Wis Bonus
----------------
200 Spell Points – Without Enhancements or Items



Saves
----------------
7 / 3 / 3 - Paladin 11 Base
0 / 3 / 0 – Rogue 2 Base
2 / 0 / 0 – Fighter 1 Base
6 / 5 / 3 - Stat Mods
4 / 4 / 4 - Resistance +4 Item
7 / 7 / 7 - Divine Grace
3 / 3 / 3 - Paladin Aura (w/ RoG 2)
4 / 4 / 4 - Greater Heroism
----------------
33 / 29 / 24


To-Hit
----------------
13 - BAB
9 - Strength
5 - +5 Weapon
4 - Paladin Attack Boost 3 / Human Versatility Attack 3
4 - Greater Heroism
1 - Weapon Focus
1 - Haste
1 - Rage Potion
3 - Divine Favor
----------------
+41 to hit
----------------
-5 - Power Attack
----------------
+36 to hit w/ Power Attack


Damage
----------------
9 - Strength
5 - +5 Weapon
3 - Divine Favor
1 - Rage Potion
----------------
+18 Damage
----------------
5 - Power Attack
----------------
+23 Damage w/ Power Attack


AC
----------------
10 - Base
13 - +5 Mithral Breastplate
3 - Dexterity
7 - +5 Mithral Heavy Shield
3 - Spectacular Optics
2 - Chaosguarde
1 - Paladin Aura
2 - Bulwark of Good
2 - Ring of Balance (Invaders)
----------------
42 AC Standing
----------------
2 - Defensive Fighting
1 - Haste Potion/Spell
1 - Shield of Faith +3
4 - Human Versatility AC Boost
1 - +5 Mithral Tower Shield (No access to FTSM yet)
----------------
51 AC Buffed


Enhancements
----------------
Bulwark of Good 2
Resistance of Good 2
Paladin Toughness 4
Human Versatility 3 / Paladin Attack Boost 3
Paladin Charisma 2
Rogue Dexterity 1
Human Adaptability 1 – Dexterity
Human Adaptability 2 – Charisma
Extra Lay On Hands 2
----------------


UMD
----------------
17 - Ranks
7 - Charisma
3 - Skill Focus: UMD
3 - Golden Cartouche
4 - Greater Heroism
----------------
34 UMD - Raise Dead Scroll on a 2+
----------------
4 - Human Versatility 3 Boost
----------------
38 UMD - Auto-success on Raise Dead, Heal on a 2+


Items
----------------
Goggles: Spectacular Optics
Helm: +6 WIS
Necklace: +6 CON / BAM Necklace (100% Fortification) / Golden Cartouche
Trinket: Mummified Bat / Pearl of Power / Wizardry Trinket
Cloak: +6 CHA
Belt: +6 CON
Gloves: +6 STR
Boots: +6 DEX
Bracers: Chaosguarde
Ring: Ring of Shadows
Ring: +4 Resistance
----------------

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Convert Human to Dwarf:
----------------
Starting Stats: 17 / 13 / 15 / 10 / 9 / 12
Remove Kopesh
Change Human Enhancement Stats à Constitution
Add Dwarven Axe Attack/Damage (Axe Spec)

Net difference
----------------
+14 Hit Points
-2 to all saves
-4 CHA
+2 to Hit (Wielding Axe)
+2 Damage (Wielding Axe)
+ Dwarven Racial Abilities
----------------


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Convert Human to Warforged
----------------

Starting Stats: 17 / 13 / 15 / 10 / 9 / 10
Remove Kopesh
Take Mithral Body or No Body Feat @ Level 1
Change Human Enhancement Stats à Constitution
Add Follower of Blades & Bladesworn Transformation (Greatsword Spec)

Net Difference
----------------
-3 to all Saves
+14 Hit Points
-5 AC (Mithral Body) / -10 AC (No Body)
-7 AC for No Shield, as this build should go 2-Handed Fighting
+1 To hit w/ Greatsword
+Bladesworn Transformation
+Warforged Immunities
----------------


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Convert Human to Drow
----------------

Starting Stats: 17 / 11 / 13 / 10 / 8 / 15
Remove Kopesh
Change Human Enhancement Stats à Dex
Add Follower of Vulkoorim (Shortsword Spec)

Net difference
----------------
-1 to Fort
-14 Hit Points
+3 to Hit (Wielding Shortsword)
+2 Damage (Wielding Shortsword)
+Drow Racial Abilities
+Drow SR
----------------


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Convert Human to Elf
----------------

Starting Stats: 17 / 11 / 13 / 10 / 8 / 15
Remove Wis Tome
Remove Kopesh
Change Human Enhancement Stats à Dexterity
Add Follower of Silver Host (Longsword Spec)

Net difference
----------------
-1 to Fort Save
-14 Hit Points
+3 to Hit (Wielding Longsword)
+2 Damage (Wielding Longsword)
+ Elf Racial Abilities
----------------

[Dworkin_of_Amber]

Basic Human Evasion Paladin w/ Rogue Skills


This template takes the Evasion Paladin, and enables the “Rogue Skills” or Disable Device, Search, and Open Lock. While DD/OL/Search may not be the highest possible, and may not be able to handle certain traps that only pure-focused Rogues can manage (sometimes), like Cabal for One on Elite… this should be more than sufficient for all Normal & Hard content, and probably 90+ % of Elite Content, including all current Raids for the required “Rogue Skills”. This build gives up Power Attack and Power Critical, as well as -1 starting STR and a bit less CON, the overall effect is identical Strength, -4 CON (-28 hit points), and the 2 feats, for the ability to unlock any door, and Search and Disable almost any Trap in the game. Enhancements get even tighter, as picking up the 1st level Rogue Disable Device & Search are helpful, and Human Versatility (the Mod 5 version) becomes a huge asset to this build, and really wants to be maxed at HV 4, but it can get by with HV 3. I would expect these build to run with BoG 2 & RoG 2, due to the tightness of the Enhancement Points available overall. I have not taken the time to convert this build to any other race, mainly due to time constraints, but with the loss of a Skill Points/level, it makes me think that Drow may be the only other option for this build, but getting CON back up may be difficult… but my initial thoughts would be 16/10/12/17/8/14 for starting stats… taking Drow Dex 2 & Paladin Cha 3, but ending up at only 27 Str… but it is a close equivalent.

Still, it takes the incredible survivability of the Evasion Paladin, and allows him to also fill the party Rogue spot to 90-95% of all current content… Not a bad package!

Level 14 Human Paladin
11 Paladin / 2 Rogue / 1 Fighter

Stats
----------------
STR: 16 + 3 (Levels) + 2 (1750 Tome) + 1 (Human Adapt Str 1) + 6 (Item) = 28 (+9)
DEX: 12 + 1 (Tome) + 1 (Rogue Dex 1) + 6 (Item) = 20 (+5)
CON: 12 + 6 (Item) = 18 (+4)
INT: 15 + 1 (Tome) = 16 (+3)
WIS: 8 + 6 (Item) = 14 (+2)
CHA: 14 + 1 (Tome) + 1 (Human Adapt Cha 1) + 2 (Paladin Cha 2) + 6 (Item) = 24 (+7)
----------------
Please Note that the +1 INT Tome *MUST* be used BEFORE taking Level 2


Skills
----------------
Level 1 (Rogue) - Disable Device (+4), Open Lock (+4), Search (+4), Use Magic Device (+4)

Level 2 – Level 11 (Paladin) - Disable Device (+1), Open Lock (+0.5), Search (+1), Use Magic Device (+0.5)

Level 12 (Rogue) - Disable Device (+1), Open Lock (+4), Search (+1), Use Magic Device (+6)

Level 13 – Level 14 (Paladin/Fighter) - Disable Device (+1), Search (+1), Use Magic Device (+1)

Final Ranks @ Level 14 – Disable Device (17), Open Locks (13), Search (17), Use Magic Device (17)
----------------


Feats
----------------
1) Nimble Fingers
1) Skill Focus: Disable Device
3) Skill Focus: UMD
6) Weapon Focus: Slashing *or* Skill Focus: Search
9) Improved Critical: Slashing
12) Toughness
14) (Fighter Bonus) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Kopesh
----------------


Hit Points
----------------
10 - Heroic Durability
110 - Paladin 11
10 – Fighter 1
12 – Rogue 2
56 - Con Bonus
16 - Toughness
50 - Paladin Toughness 4
10 - Draconic Vitality
----------------
284 Hit Points


Spell Points
----------------
140 – Paladin 11 Base
40 – Wis Bonus
----------------
180 Spell Points – Without Enhancements or Items



Saves
----------------
7 / 3 / 3 - Paladin 11 Base
0 / 3 / 0 – Rogue 2 Base
2 / 0 / 0 – Fighter 1 Base
4 / 5 / 2 - Stat Mods
4 / 4 / 4 - Resistance +4 Item
7 / 7 / 7 - Divine Grace
3 / 3 / 3 - Paladin Aura (w/ RoG 2)
4 / 4 / 4 - Greater Heroism
----------------
31 / 29 / 23


To-Hit
----------------
13 - BAB
9 - Strength
5 - +5 Weapon
5 - Human Versatility Attack 4
4 - Greater Heroism
1 - Weapon Focus
1 - Haste
1 - Rage Potion
3 - Divine Favor
----------------
+42 to hit


Damage
----------------
9 - Strength
5 - +5 Weapon
3 - Divine Favor
1 - Rage Potion
----------------
+18 Damage
----------------
5 – Human Versatility Damage 4
----------------
+23 Damage


AC
----------------
10 - Base
13 - +5 Mithral Breastplate
5 - Dexterity
7 - +5 Mithral Heavy Shield
3 - Spectacular Optics
2 - Chaosguarde
1 - Paladin Aura
2 - Bulwark of Good
2 - Ring of Balance (Invaders)
----------------
42 AC Standing / 43 AC with +5 Mithral Tower Shield
----------------
2 - Defensive Fighting
1 - Haste Potion/Spell
1 - Shield of Faith +3
4 - Human Versatility AC Boost
----------------
52 AC Buffed
----------------
1 – Level 11+ Paladin Aura
3 – Ranger’s Barkskin
2 – Recitation
----------------
58 AC with Party Buffs
----------------
3 – Chattering Ring
1 – “Of Parrying Item”
----------------
62 AC with Buffs and Raid Item


Enhancements
----------------
Bulwark of Good 2
Resistance of Good 2
Paladin Toughness 4
Human Versatility 4Paladin Charisma 2
Rogue Dexterity 1
Human Adaptability 1 – Dexterity
Human Adaptability 2 – Strength
Extra Lay On Hands 2
Rogue Disable Device 1
Rogue Search 1

----------------


UMD
----------------
17 - Ranks
7 - Charisma
3 - Skill Focus: UMD
3 - Golden Cartouche
4 - Greater Heroism
----------------
34 UMD - Raise Dead Scroll on a 2+
----------------
5 - Human Versatility 4 Boost
----------------
39 UMD - Auto-success on Raise Dead & Heal



Disable Device
----------------
17 – Ranks
3 – Intelligence
3 – Skill Focus: Disable Device
13 – Item
7 – +5 Thieves Tools
5 – Human Versatility 4 Skill Boost
1 – Rogue Disable Device I
----------------
49 Disable Device / 52 Disable wearing +6 INT Item


Search
----------------
17 – Ranks
3 – Intelligence
13 – Item
5 – Human Versatility 4 Skill Boost
1 – Rogue Search 1
----------------
39 Search / 42 Search if Skill Focus: Search is selected



Open Lock
----------------
13 – Ranks
5 – Dexterity
13 – Item
7 – +5 Thieves Tools
5 – Human Versatility 4 Skill Boost
----------------
43 Open Lock


Items
----------------
Goggles: Spectacular Optics / +13 Disable Device / +13 Search / +13 Open Lock
Helm: +6 WIS
Necklace: +6 CON / BAM Necklace (100% Fortification) / Golden Cartouche
Trinket: Mummified Bat / Pearl of Power / Wizardry Trinket
Cloak: +6 CHA
Belt: +6 CON
Gloves: +6 STR
Boots: +6 DEX
Bracers: Chaosguarde
Ring: Ring of Shadows
Ring: +4 Resistance / +6 INT
----------------

[Dworkin_of_Amber]

Finally, I wanted to add some speculative build information for a full Level 20 build out.

These are speculative, and assuming no additional feats other than what exist today, but assuming availability to +5 Tomes, +6 Items, +4 Class Enhancements, and +3 Racial Enhancements (or 3 +1’s for Humans), as well as all 5 Level Increases (4, 8, 12, 16, 20). Now there is no exact information on +3 Racial and +4 Class Enhancements, but I think it is a good assumption that they will exist.


You may notice that many of the build include the Least & Lesser Dragonmark of Passage. I have taken this on my Holy Avenger , and I love it. But part of the problem is that for many of these builds, I simply cannot find any other feats worth taking. Some of them, should +5 Tome become available before Level 18 or so, then maybe Combat Expertise & Improved Trip would be good, but without new higher-level Feats, I have had a hard time finding good fits for some of the builds.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Basic Human Paladin
Level 20 Human Paladin

Stats
----------------
STR: 17 + 5 (Levels) + 5 (Tome) + 1 (Human Adapt Str 1) + 6 (Item) = 34 (+12)
DEX: 8 + 2 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 16 (+3)
CON: 15 + 5 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 26 (+8)
INT: 8 +5 (Tome) = 13 (+1)
WIS: 11 + 5 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 22 (+6)
CHA: 15 + 5 (Tome) + 4 (Paladin Cha 4) + 6 (Item) = 30 (+10)
----------------


Feats
----------------
1) Weapon Focus: Slashing
1) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Kopesh
3) Power Attack
6) Toughness
9) Improved Critical: Slashing
12) Power Critical
15) Toughness / Least Dragonmark of Passage
18) Combat Expertise / Lesser Dragonmark of Passage
----------------


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Basic Human Paladin/Fighter Hybrids
Level 11 Paladin / Level 9 Fighter “IntimiTank”

Stats
----------------
STR: 17 + 5 (Levels) + 5 ( Tome) + 1 (Human Adapt 1 Str) + 2 (Fighter’s STR 2) + 6 (Item) = 36 (+14)
DEX: 13 + 5 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 24 (+7) (Fighter’s Armor Mastery 2)
CON: 13 + 5 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 24 (+7)
INT: 13 + 1 (Tome) = 14 (+2)
WIS: 8 + 5 (Tome) + 1 (Human Adapt 1 Wis) + 6 (Item) = 20 (+5)
CHA: 12 + 5 (Tome) + 3 (Paladin Cha 3) + 6 (Item) = 26 (+8)
----------------


Level Progression
----------------
L1-L2 – Fighter
L3-L13 – Paladin
L14-L20 – Fighter


Feats
----------------
1) Weapon Focus: Slashing
1) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Kopesh
1B) Combat Expertise
2B) Dodge
3) Power Attack
6) Improved Trip
9) Improved Critical: Slashing
12) Toughness
15) Two-Handed Fighting / Least Dragonmark of Passage
15B) Weapon Specialization: Slashing
17B) Improved Two-Handed Fighting / Dodge
18) Greater Two-Handed Fighting / Lesser Dragonmark of Passage
19B) Greater Weapon Focus: Slashing
----------------


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Level 20 Human Evasion Paladin
11 Paladin / 2 Rogue / 7 Fighter

Stats
----------------
STR: 17 + 5 (Levels) + 5 (Tome) + 1 (Human Adapt 1 Str) + 2 (Fighter STR 2) + 6 (Item) = 36 (+13)
DEX: 12 + 5 (Tome) + 1 (Rogue Dex 1) + 6 (Item) = 24 (+7) (Fighter’s Armor Mastery 2)
CON: 15 + 5 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 26 (+8)
INT: 8
WIS: 9 + 5 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 20 (+5)
CHA: 14 + 5 (Tome) + 1 (Human Adapt Cha 1) + 2 (Paladin Cha 2) + 6 (Item) = 28 (+9)
----------------



Level Progression
----------------
L1-L9 – Paladin
L10-L11 – Rogue
L12-L13 – Paladin
L14-L20 - Fighter



Feats
----------------
1) Weapon Focus: Slashing
1) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Kopesh
3) Power Attack
6) Skill Focus: UMD
9) Improved Critical: Slashing
12) Toughness
14B) Power Critical
15) Least Dragonmark of Passage
15B) Two-Handed Fighting / Stunning Blow
17B) Weapon Specialization: Slashing
18) Improved Two-Handed Fighting / Lesser Dragonmark of Passage
19B) Greater Two-Handed Fighting
----------------


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Level 20 Human Evasion Paladin with Rogue Skills
11 Paladin / 3 Rogue / 6 Fighter

Stats
----------------
STR: 16 + 5 (Levels) + 5 (Tome) + 2 (Fighter Str 2) + 6 (Item) = 34 (+12)
DEX: 12 + 5 (Tome) + 1 (Rogue Dex 1) + 6 (Item) = 24 (+7) (Fighter’s Armor Mastery 2)
CON: 12 + 5 (Tome) + 1 (Human Adapt Con 1) + 6 (Item) = 24 (+7)
INT: 15 + 5 (Tome) = 20 (+5)
WIS: 8 + 5 (Tome) + 1 (Human Adapt Wis 1) + 6 (Item) = 20 (+5)
CHA: 14 + 5 (Tome) + 1 (Human Adapt Cha 1) + 2 (Paladin Cha 2) + 6 (Item) = 28 (+9)
----------------
Please Note that the +1 INT Tome *MUST* be used BEFORE taking Level 2


Skills
----------------
Level 1 (Rogue) - Disable Device (+4), Open Lock (+4), Search (+4), Use Magic Device (+4)

Level 2 – Level 11 (Paladin) - Disable Device (+1), Open Lock (+0.5), Search (+1), Use Magic Device (+0.5)

Level 12 (Rogue) - Disable Device (+1), Open Lock (+4), Search (+1), Use Magic Device (+6)

Level 13 – Paladin - Disable Device (+1), Search (+1), Use Magic Device (+1)

Level 14 – Level 19 (Paladin - Disable Device (+1), Search (+1), Use Magic Device (+1)

Level 20 – Rogue - Disable Device (+1), Search (+1), Use Magic Device (+1), Open Lock (+5), Spot/Balance/Jump (+9)

Final Ranks @ Level 20 – Disable Device (23), Open Locks (18), Search (23), Use Magic Device (23)
----------------


Feats
----------------
1) Nimble Fingers
1) Skill Focus: Disable Device
3) Skill Focus: UMD
6) Weapon Focus: Slashing
9) Improved Critical: Slashing
12) Toughness
14B) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Kopesh
15) Skill Focus: Search
15B) Power Attack
17B) Weapon Specialization: Slashing
18) Least Dragonmark of Passage / Dodge / Luck of Heroes / Skill Focus: Open Lock/Jump/Balance/Spot
19B) Power Critical
----------------

[Dworkin_of_Amber]

This isn't a "Paladin" Build, per se... but it does have a Paladin Splash, and as I posted it over on the Rogue Boards, many here might not see it, so I present the "30-Strength Two-Weapon Fighting Battle Rogue", aka. "The Cuisinart"


Highlights of the Build:
30 Strength, w/ Greater Two-Weapon Fighting, Improved Critical, & Improved Evasion!
55 Disable, 51 Open Lock, 47 Search, 34 Spot, 34 UMD

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The 30-Strength Two-Weapon Fighting Battle Rogue Build
“The Cuisinart”
Level 14 Human
10 Rogue / 2 Paladin / 2 Fighter

Stats:
----------------
STR: 17 + 3 (Levels) + 2 (1750 Tome) + 1 (Human Str 1) + 1 (Fighter STR 1) + 6 (Item) = 30 (+10)
DEX: 16 + 1 (Tome) + 1 (Rogue Dex 2) + 6 (Item) = 24 (+7)
CON: 13 + 1 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 20 (+5)
INT: 11 + 1 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 18 (+4)
WIS: 9 + 1 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 16 (+3)
CHA: 8 + 1 (Tome) + 1 (Paladin CHA 1) + 6 (Item) = 16 (+3)
----------------


Level Progression:
----------------
L1 - Rogue
L2-L3 - Paladin
L4-L6 - Rogue
L7 - Fighter
L8-L13 - Rogue
L14 - Fighter
----------------


Skill Points:
----------------
Level 1 - Balance 3, DD 4, Hide 4, Jump 4, MS 4, OL 4, Search 4, Spot 4, Tumble 1, UMD 4
Paladin/Fighter Levels: DD 1, Search 1
Rogue Levels: DD, Search, UMD, Spot, OL, Hide, Move Silently, Jump, Balance

Use Rogue Skill points to keep all skills maxxed, and catch up skills that are behind in priority order as listed (DD, Search, UMD, Spot, Open Lock, Hide/Move Silent, Balance/Jump)
----------------


Final Skill Ranks:
----------------
Balance: 6
Disable Device: 17
Hide: 16
Jump: 13
Move Silently: 16
Open Lock: 16
Search: 17
Spot: 16
Tumble: 1
Use Magic Device: 16
----------------


Feats:
----------------
1) Two Weapon Fighting
1) Skill Focus: Disable Device
2C) Aura of Good
3) Skill Focus: Search
3C) Divine Grace
3C) Lay on Hands
4C) Evasion
6) Skill Focus: UMD
6C) Uncanny Dodge
7B) Improved Two Weapon Fighting
9) Weapon Focus Slashing / Least Dragonmark of Passage / Power Critical / Toughness
11C) Improved Uncanny Dodge
12) Improved Critical: Slashing
13C) Improved Evasion
14B) Greater Two Weapon Fighting
----------------


Hit Points:
----------------
20 - Heroic Durability
60 - Rogue 10
20 - Paladin 2
20 - Fighter 2
70 - Con
10 - Draconic Vitality
----------------
200 Hit Points without False Life


Saves:
----------------
3 / 7 / 3 - Rogue 10 Base
3 / 0 / 0 - Paladin 2 Base
3 / 0 / 0 - Fighter 2 Base
5 / 7 / 3 - Stat Mods
1 / 1 / 1 - Paladin Aura
3 / 3 / 3 - Divine Grace
4 / 4 / 4 - Resistance +4 Item
4 / 4 / 4 - Greater Heroism
----------------
26 / 26 / 18 - Saves w/ +4 Resistance & Greater Heroism


To-Hit:
----------------
11 - BAB
10 - Str
5 - Weapon
4 - Greater Heroism
-2 - Two-Weapon Fighting
----------------
+28 To Hit (+28/+28/+28/+33/+33/+38/+38)
----------------
1 - Haste
1 - Rage Potion
2 - Recitation
----------------
+33 To Hit Buffed (+33/+33/+33/+38/+38/+43/+43)


Damage:
----------------
10 - Str
5 - Weapon
----------------
+15 Damage
----------------
1 - Rage Potion
2 - Recitation
----------------
+18 Damage Buffed


AC in Two-Weapon Mode
----------------
10 - Base
10 - KDS
6 - Dex
5 - Protection +5 Item
2 - Ring of Balance
2 - Chaosguarde
----------------
34 AC (33 AC in +5 Mithral Breastplate or +5 Mithral Chain Shirt, or +7 Armor Item & Robes)
----------------
3 - Ranger's Barkskin
1 - Haste
2 - Recitation
5 - Human Versatility 4 AC Boost
4 - Paladin Aura
6 - Improved Uncanny Dodge
----------------
55 Buffed AC
----------------
7 - +5 Heavy Shield
----------------
62 AC Buffed w/ Shield
----------------
3 - Chattering Ring
----------------
65 AC with Raid Loot

*However, it is probably best to ignore AC and wear the best Fearsome Robe/Item and go with Robes for Greater Elemental Resistances)*


Disable Device:
----------------
17 - Ranks
3 - SF: DD
2 - Rogue DD 2
2 - WotM
4 - INT
13 - DD Item
7 - +5 Thieves Tools
5 - Rogue Skill Boost 4
----------------
53 Disable


Search:
----------------
17 - Ranks
3 - SF: Search
3 - Rogue Search 3
2 - WotM
4 - INT
13 - Search Item
5 - Rogue Skill Boost 4
----------------
47 Search


Open Lock:
----------------
16 - Ranks
2 - Rogue Open Lock 2
2 - WotM
7 - DEX
13 - OL Item
7 - +5 Thieves Tools
5 - Rogue Skill Boost 4
----------------
51 Open Lock


Spot:
----------------
16 - Ranks
3 - WIS
2 - WotM
13 - Item
----------------
34 Spot


UMD:
----------------
16 - Ranks
3 - SF: UMD
3 - CHA
3 - Golden Cartouche
----------------
25 UMD - Can Wear/Wield any RR Item
----------------
4 - Greater Heroism
5 - Rogue Skill Boost 4
----------------
34 UMD - Raise Dead on a 2 or better


Enhancements:
----------------
Enhancement: Rogue Skill Boost I
Enhancement: Rogue Skill Boost II
Enhancement: Rogue Skill Boost III
Enhancement: Rogue Skill Boost IV
Enhancement: Rogue Fire Trap Lore I
Enhancement: Fighter Critical Accuracy I
Enhancement: Fighter Item Defense I
Enhancement: Human Adaptability Strength I
Enhancement: Rogue Subtle Backstabber I
Enhancement: Rogue Subtle Backstabber II
Enhancement: Rogue Subtle Backstabber III
Enhancement: Rogue Sneak Attack Training I
Enhancement: Rogue Sneak Attack Training II
Enhancement: Rogue Sneak Attack Training III
Enhancement: Way of the Mechanic I
Enhancement: Rogue Disable Device I
Enhancement: Rogue Disable Device II
Enhancement: Rogue Open Lock I
Enhancement: Rogue Open Lock II
Enhancement: Rogue Search I
Enhancement: Rogue Search II
Enhancement: Rogue Search III
Enhancement: Paladin Charisma I
Enhancement: Rogue Dexterity I
Enhancement: Fighter Strength I
Enhancement: Rogue Improved Trap Sense I
----------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Future Planning:
----------------
There is one flaw here, in that the long-term planning for this build would really want to pickup Improved Feint, but that requires 13 INT, which this build cannot do without a +2 INT Tome. You could drop starting CON and up INT a bit (I wouldn't recommend messing with WIS or CHA, as they are needed for the Will Save)... but it is up to you. With the starting CON this build hits 200 HP before False Life, and that is just starting to hit the HP level I would be comfortable with to start Meleeing.


Now, assuming you can get a +2 INT Tome, or modify your starting stats accordingly, then I would recommend the following to finish out the build:
Level 9 - Combat Expertise
Level 15-16 - Fighter: Take Improved Feint @ L15, Weapon Specialization/Improved Trip @ L16B
Level 17-20 - Rogue: Toughness @ L18, Crippling Strike @ L19C, Allows full Max of Rogue Skills


Alternately, you can go the non-Improved Feint Route:
Level 9 - Weapon Focus
Level 15-16 - Fighter: Take Toughness @ L15, Weapon Spec @ L16B
Level 17-20 - Rogue: Nimble Fingers @ 18, Crippling Strike @ L19C, Allows full Max of Rogue Skills


Or, for a little more varied build:
Level 9 - Least Dragonmark of Passage
Level 15 - Paladin: Lesser Dragonmark of Passage @ 15, Divine Health @ 15C, RoG/BoG 1
Level 16-17 - Fighter: Take Weapon Focus @ L17B, FAM 1
Level 18-20 - Rogue: Toughness @ 18, Crippling Strike @ L20C, Allows Search/DD/Spot/UMD Maxxed

[Dworkin_of_Amber]

These are builds that I have not personally tested, but look like solid template builds for consideration. I have credited the original poster who offered it, but have included my own modifications/tweaks to what I feel would be more optimum or would be a better "baseline template" for people to work from.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tactics Paladin – Originally by Vyvy3369
Dwarf - 11 Paladin/3 Fighter

Starting Stats:
----------------
STR: 16 + 3 (Levels) + 1 (Fighter’s STR 1) + 2 (1750 Tome) + 6 (Item) = 28 (+9)
DEX: 12 + 1 (Tome) + 5 (Item) = 18 (+4)
CON: 14 + 1 (Tome) + 1 (Dwarven CON 1) + 6 (Item) = 22 (+6)
INT: 13 + 1 (Tome) = 14 (+2)
WIS: 9 + 1 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 16 (+3)
CHA: 13 + 1 (Tome) + 2 (Paladin Cha 2) + 6 (Item) = 22 (+6)
----------------

Progression:
----------------
1-3 – Fighter
4-14 – Paladin
----------------

Feats:
----------------
1) Power Attack
1F) Cleave
2F) Combat Expertise
3) Improved Trip
6) Great Cleave
9) Stunning Blow
12) Toughness
----------------

Skills:
----------------
Intimidate
Jump
----------------

Saves:
----------------
7 / 3 / 3 – Paladin 11 Base
3 / 1 / 1 – Fighter 3 Base
6 / 4 / 3 – Stat Mods
5 / 5 / 5 – Kardin’s Eye
1 / 1 / 1 – Paladin Aura
2 / 2 / 2 – Resistance of Good 2
4 / 4 / 4 – Greater Heroism
----------------
28 / 20 / 19 (Plus Dwarven +4 vs. Spells)

Hit Points:
20 (HD) + 140 (Pal/Fgt Base) + 84 (Con) + 16 (Toughness) + 50 (Dwarven Toughness) + 50 (Paladin Toughness) + 30 (GFL) + 10 (DV) = 334 HP

AC:
----------------
10 – Base
13 - +5 Full Plate
4 – Dex (DAM 2 & FAM 1)
9 - +5 Tower Shield
4 – Protection +4 Item
2 – Ring of Balance
2 – Chaosguarde
3 – Paladin Aura
----------------
47 – Standing
----------------
5 – Combat Expertise
----------------
52 – Stanced
----------------
3 – Ranger’s Barkskin
2 – Recitation
1 – Haste
1 – Paladin’s Aura
----------------
59 – Buffed
----------------
3 – Chattering Ring
5 – Paladin’s AC Boost 4
----------------
67 AC Buffed & Boosted


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


The Dragonmarked Elven Intimi-Tank
Originally by Taerdra

Stats:
----------------
STR: 16 + 3 (Levels) + 1 (Fighter STR 1) + 2 (1750 Tome) + 6 (Item) = 28 (+9)
DEX: 13 + 1 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 20 (+5)
CON: 13 + 1 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 20 (+5)
INT: 13 + 1 (Tome) = 14 (+2)
WIS: 9 + 1 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 16 (+3)
CHA: 13 + 1 (Tome) + 2 (Paladin Cha 2) + 6 (Item) = 22 (+6)
----------------

Level Progression:
----------------
Fighter – 1, 8-9
Paladin – 2-7, 10-14
----------------

Feats:
----------------
1) Toughness
1F) Combat Expertise
3) Least Dragonmark of Shadow
6) Lesser Dragonmark of Shadow
8F) Improved Critical: Slashing
9) Skill Focus: UMD
12) Extend Spell (or Improved Trip/Stunning Blow/Bullheaded/etc)
----------------

Skills:
----------------
Intimidate - 17
UMD – 8.5
Balance & Jump – Remaining Points
----------------

Intimidate:
----------------
17 – Ranks
6 – CHA
13 – Item
4 – Greater Heroism
----------------
40 Intimidate

UMD:
----------------
8.5 – Ranks
6 – CHA
3 – Golden Cartouche
1 – Rabbit Gloves
4 – Greater Heroism
3 – Skill Focus: UMD
----------------
25.5 UMD


AC:
----------------
10 – Base
13 - +5 Mithral Full Plate
9 - +5 Mithral Tower Shield
4 – Dex
5 – Protection +5
2 – Chaosguarde
3 – Paladin Aura
2 – Ring of Balance
5 – Combat Expertise
----------------
53 AC
----------------
1 – Barkskin Potion
1 – Haste Potion
----------------
55 AC
----------------
2 – Recitation
2 – Ranger’s Barkskin
3 – Chattering Ring
1 – Paladin Aura
----------------
63 AC with Buffs & Raid Loot
+50% for 6x Displacement/day @ 1:40 Each (2:30 with Extend Spell)

To-Hit
----------------
14 – BAB
9 – STR
1 – Elven Melee Attack
1 – Soverign Host
3 – Divine Favor
5 - +5 Longsword
4 – Greater Heroism
1 – Haste
-5 – Combat Expertise
----------------
+32 To Hit In Combat Expertise Mode!

Enhancements:
----------------
Extra Dragonmark 4
Follower of the Soverign Host
Elven Melee Attack 1
Resistance of Good 2
Bulwark of Good 2
Extra Lay on Hands 2
Fighter's Critical Accuracy 1
Fighter's Armor Mastery 1
Fighter's Item Defense 1
Paladin's Toughness 4
<open>
----------------

[Dworkin_of_Amber]

I wanted to quickly touch on AC for the Paladin. I am going to make this brief and informational, not the fully fleshed out discussion you may be used to.

Paladin & Armor Class:
AC is a highly debated subject on the DDO Forums, and while avoiding the in's and out's, I am going to go with the Consensus on AC.. and that when you are talking the current "end-game" in DDO (GH Elite, Orchard, Stormreaver, etc)... than AC less than 50 is basically not worth worring about, and that 55 is the real "break point" to go from getting hit almost all the time to getting hit rarely. This target number may change with the upcoming Mod 6, but for now we will use 55 as the "Magic Number"

Ok, so given a Magic Number of 55 AC, then what does this mean for the Paladin. Paladins can certainly hit 55 AC, if they really focus on AC, have some uber gear, raid loot, and Combat Expertise... but most players do not have access to that type of gear. So, what other numbers "Matter". Outside of the GH, 40-45 AC is a great target range, very easily hit by Paladins without Raid Loot. On Normal, many Evasion Paladins have reported tanking Velah on Normal and never getting hit with around a 45 AC!

So, if you are going to focus on AC, then you need to go whole-hog, and go with CE, and probably a 12F/2P or 10F/4P or 7F/7P split to really focus on AC. Otherwise, don't worry about CE & Dodge, and all that... focus on DPS or Utility, or whatever else you want your Paladin to excel at, and don't worry about AC.

Rule of Thumb: 42-45 AC is great for everything up to the Desert. 55 AC is needed from the Gianthold on.

[Dworkin_of_Amber]

Reserved for Future Use

[Dworkin_of_Amber]

This build is *NOT* fully-fleshed out nor is it tested, so I would not consider it "Final"... I would be happy to polish it up if someone were truely interested in rolling one of these, but consider it a work in progress.

The idea is a UMD-specced Fighter/Paladin but WITHOUT Evasion, thus allowing Full Plate & Mithral Full Plate to be worn. Additionally, I wanted to be Fighter-primarily, and use the Paladin as a Splash... and for Strength-Based Two Weapon Fighting... so here is the work in progress:

---------------------------------

Human 32-Point Build
Fighter 12 / Paladin 3 / Rogue 1

STR: 17 + 4 (Levels) + 2 (Fighter's STR 2) + 1 (Human Adapt 1) + 2 (1750 Tome) + 6 (Item) = 32 (+11)
DEX: 16 + 1 (Tome) + 1 (Human Adapt 2) + 6 (Item) = 24 (+7)
CON: 11 + 1 (Tome) + 6 (Item) = 18 (+4)
INT: 12 + 1 (Tome) = 13 (+1)
WIS: 8
CHA: 10 + 1 (Tome) + 1 (Paladin Cha 1) + 6 (Item) = 18 (+4)


Feats: Rogue @ 1, Paladin 2-4, Fighter 5-16
------------------
1) Two-Weapon Fighting
1) Skill Focus: UMD
3) Toughness
5B) Weapon Focus: Slashing
6) Combat Expertise
6B) Power Attack
8B) Improved Two-Weapon Fighting
9) Improved Critical: Slashing
10B) Weapon Specialization: Slashing
12) Greater Two-Weapon Fighting
12B) Greater Weapon Focus: Slashing
14B) Cleave/Improved Trip/Two-Weapon Defense/Dodge
15) Force of Personality (Allows removal of +WIS Item)
16B) Great Cleave/Improved Trip/Two-Weapon Defense/Dodge
------------------
Alternate: Take Fighter @ 1, Rogue @ L10
------------------
1) 2Weapon, Least Dragonmark, WF: Slashing
3) Toughness
5) Power Attack
6) Lesser Dragonmark
7) Improved Two-Weapon
9) Improved Critical, Combat Expertise
12) Greater Two-Weapon, Skill Focus: UMD
14) Weapon Spec
15) Force of Personality
16) Greater Weapon Focus (or Cleave/Improved Trip/Two-Weapon Defense/Dodge)

I am not sold on either Feat progression at the moment... as I like parts of both. I do like the idea of the 2nd Level Dragonmark on the character, but with 14 feats, it is still hard to fit it all in: 3 (Two-Weapon Chain), 2 (Dragonmark Chain), 2 (Weapon Focus Chain), 1 (Toughness), 1 (Skill Focus: UMD), 1 (Force of Personality), 1 (Improved Critical), 2 (Stances: CE & PA), leaving 1 feat for either Cleave or GWF... not enough... I would like to get all 3 in... that's why I'm really not sold on this build yet... I guess I might drop Force of Personality, but I am worried about the Will Save dropping to 17, as that seems low. Not taking the Dragonmarks allots Cleave, Greate Cleave, and GWFocus... but the Expeditious Retreat & Dimension Door is very useful...

But I think I like some way to fit in the Cleave/Great Cleave option the best, as additional weapon damage/bane/effects go off on a Cleave/Great Cleave hit... which can be really nice with Disruptors, Paralyzers, Alignment Burst, and Vorpals!


Hit Points @ 16:
------------------
20 - Heroic Durability
150 - Paladin/Fighter 12 Base
6 - Rogue 1 Base
64 - Con Bonus
18 - Toughness
50 - Fighter Toughness 4
30 - Greater False Life
10 - Draconic Vitality
18 - Minos Legens
------------------
366 Hit Points


Saves @ 16 (with Force of Personality):
------------------
28 / 27 / 22 - With Kardin's Eye, Greater Heroism, & Force of Personality
------------------

AC @ 16:
------------------
10 - Base
13 - +5 Mithral Full Plate*
6 - Dexterity*
4 - +4 Protection Item
2 - Ring of Balance
2 - Chaosguarde
1 - Paladin Aura
1 - Bulwark of Good
------------------
39 - Standing TWF
------------------
5 - Combat Expertise
------------------
44 Stanced & Self-Buffed TWF
------------------
2 - Recitation
3 - Ranger's Barkskin
2 - Paladin Aura
5 - Human Versatility 4 AC Boost
------------------
56 Max Boosted AC TWF
------------------
9 - +5 Mithral Tower Shield
------------------
65 Max Boosted AC Sword-And-Board
------------------
3 - Chattering Ring
------------------
68 AC with Raid Loot


*MFP requires FAM 3 (Dex 6 + AC 13), MBP Requires FAM 2 (Dex 7 + AC 10), KDS Required FAM 1 (Dex 7 + AC 10). KDS or MBP are -2 AC vs. MFP (Note: +3 MFP is equal AC to KDS/MBP)


To-Hit @ 16
------------------
15 - BAB
11 - STR
5 - Weapon
4 - Greater Heroism
1 - Weapon Focus
2 - Greater Weapon Focus
1 - Haste
-2 - Two-Weapon Fighting
------------------
+37
------------------
-5 - Combat Expertise / Power Attack
------------------
+32/+32/+32/+37/+37/+42/+42 - Attack Chain
------------------
+1 - Rage Potion
+1 - DF Clickie
+5 - HV4 Attack Boost
------------------
+39 (+44 without Power Attack)


Damage @ 16
------------------
11 - STR
5 - Weapon
2 - Weapon Specialization
------------------
+18 Damage (+12 for Off-Hand)
------------------
5 - Power Attack
------------------
+22 Damage
------------------
1 - Rage Pot
1 - DF Clickie
5 - HV4 Damage Boost
------------------
+32 Damage


UMD @ 16:
------------------
19 - Ranks
3 - Skill Focus: UMD
4 - Charisma
3 - Golden Cartouche
4 - Greater Heroism
------------------
33 UMD - Raise Dead on a 3 or better
------------------
5 - Human Versatility 4 Skills Boost
------------------
38 UMD - Automatic Success on Raise Dead, Heal on a 2
------------------
2 - Head of Good Fortune
2 - Seven Fingered Gloves
------------------
42 UMD w/ Raid Loot - Auto-Success on Heal/Symbol of Persuasion/etc, Resurrection on a 2!!!



NOTE: Overall, I think I like the 2nd set of Feats with taking Rogue @ 10 better... I think it gives a little better overall, with adding in the Dragonmark of Passage. But if you don't want the Dragonmark, then shuffle the feats a bit to get Cleave/Great Cleave, or even Spring Attack by 16.

NOTE: This build is pretty much assuming you will wear a +6 Wis Item until L15, then take Force of Personality. This allows you to use your Charisma Modifier in place of Wisdom for your Will Saves. This will allow you to drop a +WIS Item, wearing only a Charisma/Con/Str/Dex. Yes, this means that your Charisma double-counts for your Will Save (Will Base + Divine Grace) Your will save will suck a little until you get this (around 18 or so with +6 Wis Item, Kardin's Eye, and GH - 15 with +4 Resistance & +4 Wis).

[jmonty]

hey,

i was wondering how to get my ac up on my 14 dwarven pally. now it is 45 standing: 10 base, 3 dex bonus, 13 armor bonus (+5 mith fp), 9 shield bonus (madstone shield), +5 protection item, +4 pally armor enhancements, and +1 with dodge.

i'm after some chaosguardes, and i had a Q about them too: does their bonus stack with the dodge feat, or can i respec out of that when i acquire some?

combat expertise is out of the question, and if i can find a +6 protection item i'll put that on, but i don't know how else to increase my AC.

[Riekan]

Yes, the dodge feat stacks with the dodge from the Chaosgardes. It also stacks with the +3 dodge from the Chattering Ring. Also, you could look for the ring called the Seal of the Earth for a +3 Natural Armor bonus. This would eliminate the need for barkskin potions. Both these other rings are raid loot.

[Dworkin_of_Amber]

There are only a few ways to up your AC at this point.

1) Chattering Ring - Titan Raid Loot - +3 Dodge (and yes, Dodge Bonuses Stack)
2) Chaosguarde - Xorian Cipher - +2 Dodge
3) If you can get your Dex higher, you could pickup Dwarven Armor Mastery for more Dex Bonus
4) Natural Armor - either the Ring of Balance (Invaders, Natural Armor +2), or Seal of the Earth (DQ Raid, Natural Armor +3)
Note: Natural Armor does not stack, so Seal of the Earth is equal in AC to a Barkskin (+3) Potion
5) An "Of Parrying" Item - +1 Insight
6) Defensive Fighting - +2 Dodge -2 To Hit
7) Haste Potion/Spell - +1 Dodge
8) Recitation - +2 Luck
9) Paladin AC Boost - +5 Dodge (or maybe Misc, I don't remember)

So assuming your 45 current AC, add +3 for Chattering Ring, +2 for Chaosguarde, +3 Seal of the Earth for 52 AC Standing.
Add in Defensive Fighting, Haste, Recitation, and AC Boost for a boosted 62 AC