Imp. Buckler Defense and targeting Bucklers

[Feldspar]

In this poll about animated shields, it was noted by several that Improved Buckler Defense seems just as overpowered of an option as it gives two-handed and two weapon fighters the same protection options that sword-and-boarders would otherwise exclusively enjoy.

I believe that in 2e, bucklers only gave you protection against one attacker. So my poll question has to do with whether Improved Buckler Defense is overpowered and/or whether bucklers should work in a manner like the Dodge feat, providing a shield bonus but only against one designated target.

<edit 1>One thing that annoys me about the feat is that it makes the Improved and Greater Two Weapon Defense feats, published in the same book, pretty much worthless. Why spend three feats for a +3 shield bonus when you can spend one feat and, with a little magic, get the same or better shield bonus?</edit 1>

<edit 2>To better explain option 3 - another problem with Bucklers is that, unless you plan to shield bash, Bucklers are just as good a defensive option as Light Shields but offer you other options like being able to switch freely between a two hander stance and sword and board stance when using something like a Longsword. I don't think Bucklers should be as useful in defense as a full shield.</edit 2>

 

[Cedric]

I said it works just fine, but that's largely based on the fact that I never see people rush out to get Bucklers and spend feats on their use. If it became the "it" ability melee characters go for, I might change my mind.

Not the best reasoning, I know...but I use it for a lot of things.

 

[Stalker0]

It also grants a -1 to attacks when using THF so there's that penalty.

 

[Feldspar]

It also grants a -1 to attacks when using THF so there's that penalty.

Sure, but with magic we're talking about the ability to trade a -1 to attack for, possibly, a +6 shield bonus. That doesn't seem right.