D&D 3E/3.5 3.5e: Somatic Weaponry feat plus Light Shield

[Shin Okada]

Well, with Somatic Weaponry feat in Complete Mage, my PC can use a hand with a weapon (or a similar object) for performing somatic component of spells. But this feat does nothing for the need of material component or focus.

I can hold something in a hand wearing a light shield but cannot use that hand for attacking with a weapon.

Now, if I have a light shield in one hand and a weapon in another hand, and have Somatic Weaponry feat, can I cast a spell with material component and/or focus? Or do I still need Eschew Material feat?

 

[Dandu]

Eschew Materials still requires you to use a focus.

 

[Shin Okada]

Eschew Materials still requires you to use a focus.

Ah! Yes, right. Eschew Materials do nothing for a focus.

Then, the true question may be..

Do I need a "free hand" to use M/F components? Or a hand which can hold something is enough?

 

[Dandu]

You need a free hand. Sorry, but the rules kinda suck that way. On the plus side, you can perform somatic components and hold a focus/material component in one hand iirc, and taking your hand off of a two handed weapon is a free action.

Runesmith might help you. Abjurant Champion as well, as they use Shield.

 

[Talonblaze]

Like a Greatsword, you can have one hand free to deflect arrows or do other actions needing a hand.

For a shield, I would assume it would be the same thing. You'd be able to cast the spell, but like using the shield in an attack I would only allow such if they take the negation of their shield bonus for that round. Kinda like bashing since it leaves you exposed.

 

[StreamOfTheSky]

I thought you didn't need a hand on your focus, just material components.

EDIT: This makes no mention of needing a hand for focus or components. http://www.d20srd.org/srd/magicOverview/spellDescriptions.htm#components

The grapple rules however say, "You can attempt to cast a spell while grappling or even while pinned (see below), provided its casting time is no more than 1 standard action, it has no somatic component, and you have in hand any material components or focuses you might need."
http://www.d20srd.org/srd/combat/specialAttacks.htm#grapple

Well, that sucks. Kinda makes Eschew Materials and Somatic Weaponry seem uber pointless...

 

[Dandu]

Like most other 3.5 feats then.