Gnome Paladin Build Guide

Gnome Paladin Build Guide

A Gnome Paladin's sharp mind and unwavering faith make them surprisingly effective defenders of the light.

4/10 Synergy Defender Role Medium Difficulty

Why Gnome Paladin?

Don't let their small stature fool you! A Gnome Paladin blends their innate resilience with divine power, making them a sturdy frontline fighter. With a Hit Die of d10, they gain substantial hit points, reaching around 39 by level 5 and a respectable 81 by level 11, allowing them to absorb significant damage while protecting allies.

While Gnomes are naturally suited to Intelligence-based classes, their racial traits like Gnomish Cunning, granting advantage on mental saving throws, offer a unique defensive edge. This synergy means your Paladin can better resist spells and effects that would normally incapacitate them, keeping them in the fight longer. Their Darkvision also helps them scout ahead in dungeons and fight effectively in dim light without relying on external light sources.

Recommended Ability Scores

Strength★
15(+2)
Dexterity
10(+0)
Constitution
13(+1)
Intelligence
8(-1)
Wisdom
12(+1)
Charisma★
14(+2)
HP (Lv1)
11
AC
10
Initiative
+0
Passive Per.
11
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Gnome Traits That Benefit Paladin

Gnomish Cunning

Extra saving throw advantages protect against debilitating spells and effects.

Darkvision

Gnome Darkvision helps Paladins scout ahead and fight in darkness without needing a torch.

Combat Effectiveness

Level HP Melee DPR Spell DPR
Level 5 39 7.8 0
Level 11 81 7.15 0
Level 17 123 7.15 0

DPR = Damage Per Round (average, assuming standard combat conditions).

Strengths & Weaknesses

Strengths

  • ♦ High hit points for frontline durability
  • ♦ Darkvision for dungeon exploration
  • ♦ Strong melee damage output
  • ♦ Divine Smite provides burst damage

Weaknesses

  • ♦ Small size limits heavy weapon usage
  • ♦ May require careful feat selection to optimize

Pro Tips

1

Use Gnomish Cunning to resist charms and illusions that target your mind.

2

Leverage Darkvision to scout ahead and position yourself advantageously in dark environments.

3

Focus on one-handed weapons and shields to maintain mobility due to your small size.

4

Your Divine Smite is your burst damage; use it wisely on key enemy targets.

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Paladin Subclass Builds

Explore specialized builds for each Paladin subclass:

Gnome Oath of Devotion Paladin Defender Gnome Oath of Glory Paladin Striker Gnome Oath of the Ancients Paladin Defender Gnome Oath of Vengeance Paladin Striker

Related Builds

Other Gnome Builds

Gnome Wizard 8/10 Controller Gnome Sorcerer 6/10 Blaster Gnome Warlock 5/10 Blaster Gnome Bard 4/10 Support Gnome Cleric 4/10 Support Gnome Ranger 4/10 Striker

Other Paladin Builds

Aasimar Paladin 10/10 Defender Dragonborn Paladin 10/10 Defender Dwarf Paladin 8/10 Defender Goliath Paladin 5/10 Defender Orc Paladin 5/10 Defender Tiefling Paladin 5/10 Defender

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gnome a good race for Paladin?
The Gnome Paladin synergy is rated 4/10. While Gnomish Cunning provides good mental defenses, the Gnome's small size can limit weapon choices. However, their resilience and the Paladin's inherent strength make them a viable, if niche, choice for players who enjoy a unique take on the holy warrior.
What stats should a Gnome Paladin prioritize?
Prioritize Strength for hitting enemies and Charisma for your divine abilities. Aim for a Strength of 15 and a Charisma of 14. Constitution should be at least 13 for survivability, and Wisdom at 12 helps with perception and willpower.
What party role does this build fill?
The Gnome Paladin fills the Defender role. With access to spellcasting, this build offers both combat effectiveness and utility.

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