Table of Contents

Can a Paladin Use a Lance? A Deep Dive into Mounted Combat for Holy Warriors

The short answer is a resounding YES, with some important caveats primarily stemming from specific game system rules. Paladins, those holy warriors and paragons of virtue, are often depicted charging into battle on horseback, lance in hand. However, the mechanics governing lance usage vary significantly across different editions and interpretations of the paladin class. Let’s break down the specifics.

Lances and Paladins: A System-Specific Overview

The key to understanding whether a paladin can effectively use a lance lies in the rules of the game you’re playing. Let’s examine some popular systems:

Dungeons & Dragons (5th Edition): In 5e, a paladin can use a lance. The weapon is listed as a martial weapon, and paladins are proficient with all martial weapons. However, a lance requires two hands to wield when you aren’t mounted, and it imposes disadvantage on attack rolls against targets within 5 feet. Therefore, its optimal use is on horseback. This edition embraces the classic image of the mounted paladin charging into battle.
Pathfinder: Similar to 5e, Pathfinder paladins are proficient with all simple and martial weapons, including lances. The same two-handed restriction when unmounted and disadvantage within 5 feet applies. Pathfinder also includes feats and abilities that can enhance mounted combat, making the lance a viable and powerful weapon choice.
Older Editions of D&D (3.5e, etc.): Earlier editions often had more granular rules about weapon proficiencies and specializations. While paladins were generally proficient with martial weapons, specific feats or training might be required to maximize the effectiveness of a lance. Mounted combat rules were often more complex, involving Ride checks and other mechanics.

Maximizing Lance Use for a Paladin

Assuming your game allows paladins to wield lances effectively (and most do), how can you optimize this combat style?

Key Considerations

Mount: A reliable mount is essential. Without a sturdy steed, the lance becomes far less effective. Consider investing in a warhorse or other combat-trained mount. Spells like Find Steed (5e) can be invaluable.
Feats: Certain feats can significantly improve your mounted combat capabilities. Mounted Combatant (5e) grants advantage on attack rolls against unmounted creatures smaller than your mount, lets you force attacks targeted at your mount to target you instead, and allows your mount to move after your attack if you are mounted.
Positioning: Proper positioning is crucial. Use your mount’s speed and maneuverability to stay at a distance that allows you to utilize the lance’s reach and avoid disadvantage at close range.
Teamwork: Coordinate with your party members to control the battlefield and create opportunities for lance attacks. Allies can help keep enemies at bay or flank them to provide openings.

Combining Lance Use with Paladin Abilities

The real strength of a paladin lies in combining their martial prowess with their divine abilities. Consider these synergies:

Divine Smite: Add extra radiant damage to your lance attacks for devastating blows.
Auras: Maintain auras that benefit yourself and your mount, such as Aura of Protection (5e), which adds your Charisma bonus to saving throws.
Spells: Utilize spells that enhance your mount’s capabilities or protect it from harm.
Channel Divinity: Some Channel Divinity options can provide combat advantages, such as increasing your accuracy or granting temporary hit points.

Thematic Resonance

Beyond the mechanical advantages, wielding a lance as a paladin can be incredibly thematic. It embodies the image of the noble knight, charging into battle to defend the weak and uphold justice. This can add depth and flavor to your character’s roleplaying and interactions with the world.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about paladins and lance usage, to further clarify any confusion:

1. Are there any Paladin subclasses that synergize particularly well with lance use?

Some subclasses enhance mounted combat or provide additional benefits that complement lance usage. For example, an Oath of the Crown paladin might focus on protecting their allies and controlling the battlefield, which pairs well with a lance’s reach and damage potential. The Oath of Vengeance allows the paladin to become an avenging Angel, potentially combining flight with the lance.

2. Does the Lance weapon benefit from any fighting styles that Paladins can choose?

The Dueling fighting style might apply to a Lance if you use a shield with it while mounted, offering a +2 bonus to damage rolls. Otherwise, a Paladin with a Lance weapon will not benefit from any available fighting style.

3. What kind of mount is best for a lance-wielding paladin?

A warhorse is a classic choice, providing speed, strength, and combat training. Other options include griffons (if your DM allows it and your character has progressed far enough), or even trained dinosaurs in certain campaign settings.

4. How does mounted combat work in general?

Mounted combat rules vary by game system, but generally involve making Ride checks (or similar) to control your mount, determining initiative order, and coordinating actions. The Mounted Combatant feat (5e) simplifies and enhances these mechanics.

5. Can a Paladin use a lance in dungeons or other enclosed spaces?

Using a lance in confined areas can be challenging due to the two-handed requirement when unmounted and the disadvantage at close range. Consider carrying a backup weapon, such as a sword or mace, for these situations.

6. What armor is best suited for a lance-wielding paladin?

Full plate armor provides the best protection for a mounted paladin, allowing them to withstand attacks while charging into battle. Consider magical enhancements to improve the armor’s AC or provide other benefits.

7. How can I roleplay a paladin who specializes in lance combat?

Emphasize the character’s dedication to justice, their skill in horsemanship, and their unwavering commitment to protecting the innocent. Use the lance as a symbol of their authority and their willingness to stand against evil.

8. Are there any specific magic items that enhance lance use?

Magic items that improve weapon accuracy, damage, or mounted combat abilities are all beneficial. A +1 Lance is an obvious choice. Other items might include a saddle that enhances your mount’s speed or a set of armor that provides resistance to certain damage types.

9. What happens if my mount dies in combat?

Losing your mount can be devastating. Have a backup plan, such as a Find Steed spell or a trained warhorse in reserve. Consider investing in abilities or items that protect your mount from harm.

10. Can a small-sized Paladin use a Lance?

Yes, but the same rules apply about being mounted. The weapon properties themselves don’t prevent a small-sized Paladin from using a Lance.

11. What is the best weapon for a Paladin if not a Lance?

This depends on your playstyle and the specific campaign, but longswords and greatswords are popular choices. Hammers are also a thematic option, especially for certain deities or oaths. Remember that the flexibility that all Paladins have regarding weapon choice is important, as they can all use any martial weapon!

12. Can a Paladin use a lance in one hand with a shield in the other?

Not normally, as the lance is a two-handed weapon when not mounted. Some DMs might allow exceptions based on specific feats or magic items, but this is not typically RAW (Rules As Written).

13. How does the lance compare to other martial weapons in terms of damage output?

The lance typically deals high damage on a successful hit, but its limitations (two-handed, disadvantage at close range) make it less versatile than some other weapons.

14. Where can I learn more about mounted combat rules?

Consult your game’s rulebook for detailed information on mounted combat. Online resources and forums can also provide helpful tips and advice. And make sure you visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn even more about the educational aspects of gaming.

15. Can a Paladin make ranged attacks in addition to using a lance?

Yes, although the base paladin class is not optimized for ranged combat. Paladins can use ranged weapons they are proficient with, such as javelins or light crossbows, but their Divine Smite ability only works with melee weapon attacks.

Ultimately, whether a paladin can effectively wield a lance depends on the specific rules of your game and your ability to leverage the weapon’s strengths while mitigating its weaknesses. By combining martial skill, divine power, and strategic thinking, you can create a formidable mounted paladin who strikes fear into the hearts of evil and champions the cause of justice!

Can a paladin use a lance?