Recently fixskills into a 2x (going to push to 3x) shield and pole arm build. For RP purposes I will be sticking with spears and tridents. Currently level 16. I don't see many using this one handed weapon. Any advice on the challenges , strengths and weaknesses?

So far shield bash and ambush eye is gratifying. Or throwing my shield over my shoulder and plunging my spear into an ogre's chest with two hands is pretty fun too.

Hurling the spear?! I didn't even think of that. I don't think I have the tp's for that. Also I'd be worried id lose my 4x spear with rattlesnake skin shaft. Love that thing. Fits my character perfectly.

I am concerned with my shield mans. Dropped charge and trample to get tfocus and prop up. I have noticed I'm not blocking many attacks. Any advice?

I have a few comments you may find helpful. My experience is mostly with polearming warriors, but I have also been dabbling in spear/shield.

First, consider getting Cman charge if you don't have it already. It is a very useful knockdown skill and will free up some shield points for non-knockdown moves that you cannot get with Cman points. Deflection is a fantastic addition, especially if you hunt in Illistim/Vaalor where everything can either shoot or throw a weapon at you.

Second, do not be afraid to wear the shield for some extra killing power. Aimed two handed spears and tridents are to my mind one of the most effective melee combat styles. Once you have enough CM (and later ambush) training to hit the eye, you will do incredible things.

Test different shield sizes, they will effect bolt and melee DS differently (assuming you have dodge and shield skill). It may be worth switching up to work against your enemy of the day.

Think also about stowing an awl-pike in your pack. There are several with the "fork" noun that can be had and using a much higher roundtime base weapon for berserk is a real treat. Nothing says please die now like 3 focused awl-pike swings every 5 seconds. You could do a lance also, if your race can handle the weight. (awl pikes are half as heavy and almost as good).

Feel free to use the AIM handle below. I always love taking shop.

AIM: GS4Menos

>Here lies the formless world we´re living in
>Gravity is finally giving in
>High altitudes and still upward we go
>I was never meant to lead but to follow

Er.. missed Menos' post. What he said.

Glurph

>wtrick tslice
You try to stuff your razern morning star in your ear.

Working on getting deflection. I have 8 points saved but at 16 i can't get my third rank in tfocus yet. As long as I'm fighting things that can stand, I hunt fast. Spent a few trips in Thurfel's Cellar and it was a pain.

Quick question: Need to have shield blessed to bash undead? Seems I would, but haven't tried yet.

I love the new shield maneuvers. My suggestion is to start with focus, but beyond that you have so many choices. Deflection is great, but it doesn't fire off that often. When it does it's lethal though. Personally I love trample with trample mastery. If you're 3x trained in shields and have those your knock down rate will be 95% and you can knock down five targets. This could work really well with a spiked and flaring shield.

I also am a big fan of guard with guard mastery and stance of the tortoise. With that combo, you can block a tremendous number of blows for you AND a hunting partner. Of course, if you hunt solo it's of little use for you.

All I know for certain is that it sure is nice to have so many choices. I would be interested in hearing people's experience with phalanx.

Kerl