Hi, guys.
I'm new to Pathfinder - played a fair bit of D&D 3.5 and am now thinking about running a Pathfinder game.
I know there has been a lot of discussion about the Ring of Force Shield and I've been going through those posts but I can't seem to find the answer to my question.
Does the Ring of Force Shield require the user to be proficient with shields to use it?
On the Yes side, the description does say that the shield must be wielded as if it is a heavy shield. That sounds like it needs the proficiency.
On the No side, it seems like the only classes that will want this item are rogues and wizards (and similar classes) because of the lack of armour check penalties and arcane spell failure chances. But neither of those classes are proficient in shields. A fighter or cleric is just going to buy a regular shield - if they want the armour check and spell failure bonuses they buy a +1 mithral light shield for less money. For this reason I would probably rule in favour of the No answer.
Has there been an official ruling on this matter?
Thanks for your help.
Regards,
Peet
Anyone can use shields - you don't have to be proficient in them to use them. However, if you aren't proficient:
Nonproficient with Armor Worn: A character who wears armor and/or uses a shield with which he is not proficient takes the armor's (and/or shield's) armor check penalty on attack rolls as well as on all Dexterity- and Strength-based ability and skill checks.
Since the Ring of Force Shield has no armor check penalty, there is no penalty if you aren't proficient.