If I'm using Use Magic Device to use a scroll and need to make a concentration check against an attack or to cast defensively or something, can I use UMD to make a concentration check? If I have levels in a class with 'caster levels' but which cannot use that scroll, can I use those levels for a concentration check? (And if so, how about a class that only casts from spell-like abilities, Shadowdancer? They probably know how to cast defensively with their own spell-like abilities using their caster level, but don't read scrolls)
or is my concentration check +0 :/
Oh I just retried my google search and someone said your caster level is the scroll's caster level, which kinda makes rules-sense but is also kinda fracking rediculous when you think about it for 1 second. Is this 'right'?
UMD would tend to be a little high compared to caster levels but... it's casting from a scroll--it's kinda the right skill for the job. Believable enough that it can potentially make it a bit easier for a specialized user to cast from (read: 'read') a scroll than a magician going through the motions of casting a spell.
I was correct. The caster of the scroll is determined by the creator. That is how you can have potions of barkskin that give varying amounts of AC because the AC is set by caster level for that particular spell. The only device where the user determines the caster level are staves.
Using Staves: Staves use the wielder's ability score and relevant feats to set the DC for saves against their spells. Unlike with other sorts of magic items, the wielder can use his caster level when activating the power of a staff if it's higher than the caster level of the staff.
I just answered you spell like ability question also. I tend to be right 95+% of the time. :)
Well thanks, but, frankly, I can certainly see where that 5-% comes from, if you're willing to be that presumptive in a case with 0 basis.
Anyway ty. Oh and I thought of a rationalization for it: a higher level scriber uses their skill to make it easier to read? Though the UMD user still has a harder time using higher level scrolls, so that still doesn't make too much sense. Honestly, I know it's a bit awkward, but I think the most preferable *number* for the roll would be 'base ranks in UMD' plus 'CHA modifier'. I can appreciate having the RAW foundation though, I just disagree with it in this case, for concept as well as balance, if not simplicity.