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Hi. Just wondering what people think: can you use a Locked Gauntlet, attached to an Arcane Bond weapon, and cast spells?
Locked Gauntlets' rule on spellcasting: "While the gauntlet is locked, you can't use the hand wearing it for casting spells or employing skills. (You can still cast spells with somatic components, provided that your other hand is free.)"
Arcane Bond notes that the weapon... "must be wielded. If a wizard attempts to cast a spell without his bonded object worn or in hand, he must make a concentration check or lose the spell."
I mean, flavor and logic would say you are casting the spell with the Bonded object itself. So would the Gauntlet therefore render the Bond useless? Would you be forced to use the other hand to cast spells? The weapon is still equipped, so RAR you could still cast even if that hand was limp and stapled to the weapon, so long as you have the free hand.
Thoughts, corrections, concerns?
As LazarX said, you hold your weapon in one hand, and cast with your free hand. The real setback to the locked gauntlet is the full-round action it takes to utilize it. If you are concerned about losing your weapon, a weapon cord is a much better option. Even then, if you plan on using wands or doing anything at all with that other hand, your spell casting with somatic components is shut down until you free that other hand.
A lot of people go familiar over arcane bond, but I chose a weapon for my wizard because 1) it made sense with her background story, 2) I get a "spontaneous" casting of any spell in my book, 3) I can provide a flanking bonus if absolutely necessary, and 4) I have the Craft Magic Arms and Armor feat for my bonded weapon. The last reason is great because I plan on applying the defending property to my weapon to boost my AC. I know this doesn't have much to do with your post, but I'm justifying reasons for having a weapon over other arcane bonds or familiars, and maybe giving you reasons you haven't thought of before.