Armando
10-24-2007, 12:37 PM
Since our stickies are so old, and the game has changed so much as of late, I figured it'd be a good idea to make an up-to-date equipment guide. Just remember: guides are just that - guidelines. This is by no means perfect, or set in stone.
Recommended gear (i.e. gear I would wear) is marked with an asterisk (*); equipment for offensive/hybrid/semi-DD tanking is colored red. Equipment that's just for temporary MP boosts are colored blue, and aren't meant to be worn full-time.
Lv.10-20
[Lv.09] Spatha ...................... | DMG:11 ~ Delay:240 ~ DMG/sec: 2.75 |
[Lv.09] * Spatha +1 ................ | DMG:12 ~ Delay:233 ~ DMG/sec: 3.09 |
[Lv.11] Bee Spatha ............... | DMG:13 ~ Delay:233 ~ DMG/sec: 3.35 |
[Lv.11] * Bee Spatha +1 .......... | DMG:14 ~ Delay:227 ~ DMG/sec: 3.70 | Acc+2
[Lv.18] Fire Sword ................ | DMG:15 ~ Delay:225 ~ DMG/sec: 4.00 | Add'l Effect: Fire damage
[Lv.18] * Flame Sword ............. | DMG:16 ~ Delay:218 ~ DMG/sec: 4.40 | Add'l Effect: Fire damage
[Lv.18] Longsword ................ | DMG:16 ~ Delay:240 ~ DMG/sec: 4.00 |
[Lv.18] * Longsword +1 ........... | DMG:17 ~ Delay:233 ~ DMG/sec: 4.38 |
[Lv.19] Auriga Xiphos (R/E) ... | DMG:17 ~ Delay:224 ~ DMG/sec: 4.55 | Acc+2
If you can't afford HQ swords, the NQs will be fine. There's not much of a difference between Flame Sword and Longsword +1 since the additional effect hardly ever procs on, and when it does, it hardly does damage. While Auriga Xiphos is good, it's not marked because it's an Ex NM drop. Personally, I don't think it's worth the time it takes to get one, but if you want to camp it, or already have it, more power to you.
Lv.21-30
[Lv.25] * Degen ....................... | DMG:14 ~ Delay:224 ~ DMG/sec: 3.75 | Piercing damage
[Lv.25] Degen +1 .................. | DMG:15 ~ Delay:218 ~ DMG/sec: 4.13 | Piercing damage
[Lv.27] Gladius ...................... | DMG:17 ~ Delay:228 ~ DMG/sec: 4.47 |
[Lv.27] * Gladiator ................... | DMG:18 ~ Delay:222 ~ DMG/sec: 4.86 |
[Lv.30] * Centurion's Sword ...... | DMG:19 ~ Delay:225 ~ DMG/sec: 5.07 | Acc+3; Atk+3
Ok, so Degen is actually a Lv.20 sword. I listed it as Lv.25 because it's only useful in the jungles (i.e. Yuhtunga Jungle and Yhoator Jungle) against Mandragoras, since you'll get a 25% piercing damage bonus on your normal hits (WS will still do slashing damage.) The HQ isn't marked because it's relatively rare and very costly for a weapon you're going to get rid of quick. Gladius is hardly an improvement over Flame Sword/Longsword +1, so you can skip it (but Gladiator is good if you fight non-Mandragora mobs.) Centurion's Sword is a no-brainer.
Lv.31-40
[Lv.34] * Republic Sword .......... | DMG:21 ~ Delay:213 ~ DMG/sec: 5.92 | Acc+3; Atk+4; MP+6; Outside of Nation: HP+6
[Lv.34] * Hunting Sword ........... | DMG:27 ~ Delay:264 ~ DMG/sec: 6.14 |
[Lv.34] War Sword ................ | DMG:28 ~ Delay:257 ~ DMG/sec: 6.54 |
[Lv.39] * Grudge Sword ........... | DMG:26 ~ Delay:240 ~ DMG/sec: 6.50 | Enmity+1
War Sword is fantastic, and it looks really bad-ass, but it's somewhat uncommon on the AH, and pretty expensive. If you can't find or afford it, go for a Republic or Hunting Sword. They're both pretty close, so if you're Elvaan or Galka, feel free to pick Republic Sword for the extra MP. On the other hand, Hunting Sword is cheaper and looks cooler. Take your pick.
Lv.41-50
[Lv.42] * Honor Sword (R/E) ..... | DMG:28 ~ Delay:240 ~ DMG/sec: 7.00 | VIT+2; MND+2
[Lv.47] Knight's Sword ........... | DMG:31 ~ Delay:240 ~ DMG/sec: 7.75 |
[Lv.47] * Knight's Sword +1 ...... | DMG:32 ~ Delay:233 ~ DMG/sec: 8.24 |
[Lv.50] * Tct.Mag.Espadon ........ | DMG:38 ~ Delay:257 ~ DMG/sec: 8.87 | Atk+12
Although Grudge Sword is good, I'd prefer the extra damage that Honor Sword has over the Enmity+1. Both Knight's Swords are suitable upgrades to Honor Sword; obviously get the HQ if you can. Tactician Magician's Espadon is absolute ownage, and if you don't have one the second you hit 50, I'll hunt you down and brick you in the face.
Lv.51-60
[Lv.51] * Dark Staff | hMP+10 (That's the only thing that matters about it.)
[Lv.52] Tct.Mag.Espadon +1 ... | DMG:38 ~ Delay:249 ~ DMG/sec: 9.16 | Atk+12; *Outside of Nation:* MP+18
[Lv.52] * Tct.Mag.Espadon +2 ... | DMG:39 ~ Delay:241 ~ DMG/sec: 9.71 | Atk+12; *Outside of Nation:* MP+20
Tactician Magician's Espadon +2 obsoletes pretty much every weapon in the 51-60 range, and it's not terribly expensive. Get it. Also, Dark Staff is insanely useful, you definitely want one too.
Shields are divided into numbered sizes, from 1 through 4. Size 1 shields are bucklers, targes, aspii, and shell shields. Size 2 shields are large, round, flat shields. Size 3 shields are kite shields and ornate shields. Size 4 shields are tower shields. The size of a shield determines both how often you block with it, and by how much damage is reduced on a successful block. Size 3 shields are by far the best for reducing damage; Size 1 are by far the worst. Since the first Size 3 shield comes at Lv.28, from 10-27, Size 2 shields are the next best thing.
Shields such as Lantern Shield, Balance Buckler, Strike Shield, etc. are omitted because they shouldn't be used for tanking due to their lower damage reduction.
[Lv.08] * Maple Shield (+1) | Size: 2 ~ Def: 2 (3)
[Lv.13] * Elm Shield (+1) | Size: 2 ~ Def: 3 (4)
[Lv.14] Fish Scale Shield | Size: 2 ~ Def: 3 | Fire Resist+2; Ice Resist+2; Lightning Resist-2
[Lv.17] Tropical Shield | Size: 2 ~ Def: 3 | Wind Resist +3; Earth Resist+3
[Lv.20] * Mahogany Shield (+1) | Size: 2 ~ Def: 4 (5)
[Lv.28] * Kite Shield | Size: 3 ~ Def: 8
[Lv.38] * Jennet Shield | Size: 3 ~ Def: 10 | VIT+1
[Lv.43] * Heater Shield | Size: 3 ~ Def: 12
[Lv.50] * R.K. Army Shield | Size: 3 ~ Def: 14 | STR+2; MND+1
[Lv.50] T.K. Army Shield | Size: 3 ~ Def: 14 | STR+1; MND+2
[Lv.50] Sentinel Shield | Size: 3 ~ Def: 10 | STR+3; Haste+1%
[Lv.52] * R.K. Army Shield +1 | Size: 3 ~ Def: 15 | STR+2; MND+1; *Outside of Nation:* STR+3
[Lv.52] T.K. Army Shield +1 | Size: 3 ~ Def: 15 | STR+1; MND+2; Outside of Nation: VIT+3
[Lv.55] Royal Guard's Shield | Size: 3 ~ Def: 15 | MND+3; CHR+3; Dark Resist+12
[Lv.58] Wivre Shield | Size: 3 ~ Def: 13 | Enmity+5
[Lv.60] * Iron Ram Shield | Size: 3 ~ Def: 15 | STR+3; VIT+3; Atk+3; Eva+3
Though I marked R.K. Army Shield, T.K. Army Shield is practically the same thing. You can use it if you like its design better. Sentinel Shield is good but you need Lance Coroporal mercenary rank and 8000 IS to get one. Wivre Shield is fantastic but rare and very expensive. Iron Ram Shield is great and cheap, though. No excuse for not getting it.
[Lv.01] Happy Egg (R/E) | HP+1%; VIT+1
[Lv.01] Fortune Egg (R/E) | MP+1%; VIT+1
[Lv.01] Orphic Egg (R/E) | Singing Skill+1; Latent Effect: Acc+1, Atk+1, Eva+1
[Lv.25] Morion Tathlum | MP+3; INT+1
[Lv.30] RSE Sachet | Depends on Race and Gender
[Lv.55] * Lightning Bow +1 | DEX+3; Lightning Resist+7; R.Acc+3
[Lv.58] Tiphia Sting | HP-25; Acc+2; Atk+2; Eva-4
[Lv.60] * Bibiki Seashell | VIT+4; Water Resist+3; Aquan Killer
The eggs are from holiday events, but it's no big deal if you don't have them. Morion Tathlum and the RSE satchets are mentioned for lack of better options.
Lightning Bow+1 is the poor man's Tiphia Sting. On the other hand, while Tiphia Sting has good stats for a gear slot that generally offers next to nothing, for its price, it's one of the last DD pieces you should buy. Bibiki Seashell is a no-brainer though. It's free, and the quest isn't hard, so there's no excuse not to have one.
[Lv.10] Faceguard | Def: 5
[Lv.10] * Royal Footman's Bandana | Def: 5; AGI+1
[Lv.10] Legionnaire's Cap | Def: 5; INT+1
[Lv.16] * Bone Mask | Def: 7
[Lv.17] * Lizard Helm | Def: 7
[Lv.21] * Beetle Mask | Def: 9
[Lv.24] Empress/Emperor Hairpin | Def: 0; HP-15; DEX+3; AGI+3; Evasion+10
[Lv.24] * Iron Mask | Def: 11
[Lv.29] * Eisenschaller | Def: 13; AGI+1
[Lv.40] * Iron Musketeer's Armet | Def: 17; VIT+2
[Lv.43] * Valkyrie's Mask | Def: 16; MP+10; Atk+7
[Lv.50] Rival Ribbon | Def: 15; MP+16; Enmity+2
[Lv.56] * Gallant Coronet | Def: 24; HP+12; MND+3; Enmity+2; Enhances Cover
I highly recommend Valkyrie's Mask, you sacrifice very little and gain a whole lot. For DD tanking, you could even use it over Gallant Coronet if you're not getting walloped too hard. If not, it's still good for Vorpal and Swift Blade. Gallant Coronet is still useful for swapping into Cover, and/or for JAs and Flash as well.
[Lv.07] * Justice Badge | Def: 1; MND+3
[Lv.14] Van Pendant | Def: 3; Enemy crit rate -1%
[Lv.21] * Spike Necklace | Def: 0; STR+3; DEX+3; MND-6
[Lv.24] * Tiger Stole | Def: 2; Atk+5
[Lv.26] Holy Phial | Def: 2; MP+9; MND+3
[Lv.50] * Parade Gorget | Def: 5; MP+10; Latent Effect: Refresh (1 MP/tick)
[Lv.55] * Royal Guard's Collar | Def: 6; Acc+4; Atk+4
Justice Badge is cheap and questable, and even worth hanging on to later for swapping into Cure spells (1 MND = 1 HP 'til you hit the soft cap.) It's especially useful if you choose Spike Necklace over Tiger Stole; you don't want -6 MND gimping your uncapped cures, so might as well macro in Justice Badge since you'd be removing Spike Necklace anyways. You can also macro it in for Seraph Blade. Speaking of Spike Necklace vs Tiger Stole, either one is fine.
Van Pendant is there for lack of options, but you can skip it. Holy Phial is ok if you really need an extra 9 MP in your gear swaps. Don't wear full-time. Parade Gorget is a must-have item. Use it for soloing and in between fights. Don't wear it full-time either, though.
R.G. Collar is cheaper than Chivalrous Chain and does pretty much the same thing 5 levels sooner. Chivalrous Chain is only worth mentioning if you happen to own a Rajas Ring too, and that extra point of Store TP gets you to 100 TP in one hit less.
[Lv.10] * Energy Earring | Def: 0; MP+3; Dark Resist+3
[Lv.16] * Bone Earring (+1) | Def: 0; Atk+1(2); Eva-1
[Lv.21] * Beetle Earring (+1) | Def: 0; Atk+2(3); Eva-2
[Lv.30] Mercenary's Earring | Def: 0; Latent Effect: VIT+2 when sub job = /WAR
[Lv.35] Buckler Earring | Def: 0; Shield Skill+3
[Lv.42] Curaga Earring | Enchantment: Curaga <50/50 | Equip: 0:30 | Recast: 0:20>
[Lv.47] Moldavite Earring | FOR TEH HOLY!!1 Just kidding.
[Lv.50] Insomnia Earring | Def: 0; HP+15; MP+15; Enhances Resist Sleep
[Lv.50] Antivenom Earring | Def: 0; MP+15; hMP+1; Enhances Resist Poison
[Lv.54] * Hospitaler Earring | Def: 3; Cure Potency +5%
[Lv.55] * Fang (Spike) Earring | Def: 0; Atk+4(5); Eva-4(5)
[Lv.58] * Assault Earring | Def: -3; Acc+2; Atk+5; Eva-2
Mercenary's Earring is just there 'cuz if I don't put it, someone'll either mention it or ask about it eventually. It's a waste of money compared to Attack earrings. Buckler Earring...eh, well, on paper it's good, but the truth of the matter is no one knows how much of an impact such a small amount of Shield Skill will actually have, or if it even makes a difference vs EXP mobs in the first place. And it's pretty damned expensive. That's gil better spent on Woodsman Rings and Haubergeon.
Curaga Earring is only handy if you fight mobs with AoE damage, which isn't very likely. Still, it's pretty unique, so I mentioned it; it could come in handy for certain missions or BCNMs. The benefits of Hospitaler's Earring are obvious, but don't wear it full time.
[Lv.10] Legionnaire's Harness | Def: 10; Fire Resist+5
[Lv.10] Royal Footman's Vest | Def: 10; Ice Resist+5
[Lv.10] * Scale Mail | Def: 11
[Lv.16] * Bone Harness | Def: 14
[Lv.17] * Lizard Jerkin | Def: 15
[Lv.21] * Beetle Harness | Def: 17
[Lv.24] * Chainmail (Bannaret Mail) | Def: 21; (Enchantment: HP+15, Enmity+2)
[Lv.29] * Eisenbrust | Def: 24; AGI+2
[Lv.36] * Silver Mail | Def: 28
[Lv.37] * Iron Scale Mail | Def: 28
[Lv.40] Breastplate | Def: 32
[Lv.40] * Royal Squire's Chainmail | Def: 31; DEX+1
[Lv.42] Earth Doublet | Def: 27; VIT+4; Earth Resist+5
[Lv.43] * Ryl.Sqr's. Chainmail +1 | Def: 32; DEX+1; In nation: Atk+6, R.Atk+6
[Lv.45] * Iron Ram Chainmail: | Def: 32; DEX+2; Set: Atk+1 and Acc+1 per piece
[Lv.45] Brigandine | Def: 32; HP+10; VIT+2; DEX+2
[Lv.46] Banded/Steel Scale Mail | Def: 36
[Lv.49] Mythril Breastplate | Def: 39
[Lv.50] * Iron Musketeer's Cuirass | Def: 40; VIT+1
[Lv.50] Parade Cuirass | Def: 38; HP+28; Enmity+2
[Lv.55] * Jaridah Peti | Def: 42; HP-25; Acc+5; Atk+5
[Lv.59] * Haubergeon | Def: 45; STR+5; DEX+5; AGI-5; Acc+10; Atk+10; Eva-20
[Lv.60] Gallant Surcoat | Def: 47(+2); HP+20; Divine Magic Skill+5; Enmity+2
Not much variety in the way of stats before the 50's, so you mostly end up going for Defense, though in many cases it's more than ok to sacrifice a trival 1-2 Defense if you can get some other useful stat (e.g. Iron Ram Chainmail vs Steel Scale Mail.)
Breastplate and Royal Squire's Chainmail are pretty much the same thing, get whichever. Same with Mythril vs Iron Musketeer's. Parade Cuirass is a bitch to get and Jaridah is better at 55. If you have it, great, otherwise, you can skip it.
Jaridah Peti will totally ruin your look, but the stats are too good to pass up. Grit your teeth and bear it. And yes, it IS in your best interests to get a Haubergeon ASAP. It may be expensive, but it's not THAT hard to raise the money (BCNMs got me the gil I needed for all my DD gear) and hardly anything compares with its stats. Once you have a Haub, there's not much reason to use Gallant Surcoat beyond the extra Enmity for JAs and Flash (and the extra Divine Magic Skill will help your Flash not get resisted, too.)
[Lv.10] * Royal Footman's Gloves | Def: 3; Atk+3
[Lv.10] * Legionnaire's Mittens | Def: 3; Atk+3
[Lv.14] * Battle Gloves | Def: 4; Acc+3; Eva+3
[Lv.15] San d'Orian (Kingdom) Gloves | Def: 4(5); Atk+3
[Lv.15] Bastokan (Republic) Gloves | Def: 4(5); Atk+3
[Lv.24] Chain Mittens | Def: 7
[Lv.29] * Eisenhentzes (Kampfhentzes) | Def: 9(10); VIT+1(2)
[Lv.34] Windurstian Gloves | Def: 7; AGI+1; In nation: Atk+5, R.Atk+5
[Lv.40] * Combat Caster's Mitts | Def: 8; Atk+5
[Lv.40] Iron Musketeer's Gauntlets | Def: 12; R.Acc+5
[Lv.45] * Iron Ram Mufflers | Def: 9; Acc+3; Set: Atk+1 and Acc+1 per piece
[Lv.50] Royal Knight's Mufflers | Def: 13; Acc+3
[Lv.54] Gallant Gauntlets | Def: 16; HP+11; DEX+3; Enmity+2; Light Resist+10
[Lv.55] * Fourth Division Gauntlets | Def: 13; Acc+5; Set: Increases HP
Ryl.Ftm. Gloves and Legionnaire's Mitts are the same thing, get whichever. Between those and Battle Gloves, it's pretty close. Battle Gloves probably wins by a slight margin. Pretty ugly though. Windurstian Gloves are situational but they're very nice when they work, and C.C. Mitts are always nice.
Gallant Gauntlets will serve you well for a full level, but after that, you're better off using Fourth Division Gauntlets. Same as Gallant Surcoat and any other AF piece with enmity, though, you can still swap it in for JAs and Flash.
[Lv.10] Astral Ring | HP -> MP +25
[Lv.10] Safeguard Ring | Def:2
[Lv.14] * Mighty Ring | STR+1; Fire Resist+3; Enchantment: Atk+5, R.Atk+5
[Lv.14] * Stamina Ring | VIT+2
[Lv.15] Fasting Ring | HP-20; MP+10; STR+1
[Lv.30] Rajas Ring | STR+2~5; DEX+2~5; Store TP+5; Subtle Blow+5
[Lv.30] Sattva Ring | HP+15~30; VIT+2~5; AGI+2~5; Enmity+3
[Lv.34] * Venerer Ring | Acc+3
[Lv.35] Jaeger Ring | Acc+4; R.Acc+4[/u]
[Lv.36] * Verve Ring | VIT+3
[Lv.40] Electrum Ring | HP-20; MP+20
[Lv.40] Ether Ring | HP -> MP +25
[Lv.40] Mana Ring | MP+15
[Lv.40] * Woodsman Ring | Acc+5; Eva-5
[Lv.42] Mermaid's Ring | Enmity+2
[Lv.50] Phalanx Ring | Def:10
[Lv.50] Unyielding Ring | Def:7; VIT+3; DEX+3; Resist Charm
[Lv.50] Ebullient Ring | HP+15; MP+15; Resist Paralyze
[Lv.50] Guardian Ring | Latent Effect: Shield Bash+10
The ring slot is one of those slots that customize your character rather than define it, and there's a bunch of variations of the same types of rings, available at different levels, prices, and acquisition methods. Because of this, I only marked the most important ones. Rings that are hard to get aren't marked since most people don't have access to them immediately; rings that are hard to get and aren't that useful have been omitted.
Regarding MP rings: These are useful for Elvaan and Galka. However, once you use up the extra MP they provide, you should switch them with something else until it's time to fill up your MP again.
Regarding Defense rings: They're listed as "offensive" rings for one reason only. By 50, when eating Defense food, the extra Defense won't help you much. However, when eating sushi, that extra 20 Defense could be the difference between taking too much damage and having the right amount of Defense to not have to eat Defense food. They're not essential, but they could come in handy. Safeguard Ring's just there for lack of options, though.
Regarding Damage Dealing rings: Mighty Rings are fantastic. +11 Attack is great at any level, but at Lv.14 it's absolutely ridiculous, especially when you consider that the only other thing worth equipping at that level are Stamina Rings, which will only lower the mob's DMG by 1. I'd wear these babies 'til Lv.40, at which point the DD rings of choice would be Woodsman + Venerer or Woodsman x2 depending on your budget. Do be warned, though: you can't remove Mighty Rings or you'll lose the enchantment. You'll also lose the enchantment if you die or zone.
Regarding VIT rings: I know a lot of veteran Paladins will disagree with me, but I don't see them as very useful any more. At low levels Mighty Rings provide an Attack boost that's just too big to ignore; by level 40, VIT isn't as useful as the Accuracy+8 that Woodsman+Venerer give either. Regardless, you can lose Mighty Ring's enchantment in various ways so you should still carry Stamina/Verve Rings until at the very least Lv.40. If you plan on using Accuracy rings at 40+, it's up to you to decide if Verve Rings are worth the inventory space.
Regarding Guardian Ring: the latent effect is activated by having 75% HP or less, and under 100 TP. It adds 10 more damage to your Shield Bash. Maybe it does something else in addition to that (more enmity or stun?) but no one can say for sure. Dirt cheap though so if you want to buy it, go ahead.
[Lv.18] * Breath Mantle | Def: 3; Enchantment: HP+18, Enmity+3
[Lv.36] * High Breath Mantle | Def: 5; Ice Resist+5; Enchantment: HP+38, Enmity+5
[Lv.61] * Amemet Mantle | Def: 7; STR+1; Atk+10; R.Atk+10
[Lv.61] * Amemet Mantle +1 | Def: 8; STR+2; Atk+15; R.Atk+15
These are the only mantles you’ll need to touch from 10-60. Ok, Amemet Mantle is 61, but it deserves the mention. The HQ is expensive but the NQ is cheap and dirt and still gives you 10 Attack. Breath/High Breath Mantles have 50 charges that last 30 minutes each, which means each mantle is good for 25 hours of partying. The only catch is that, like Mighty Rings, you’ll lose the enchantment if you switch it out or die. Pre-18? Just get whatever has the most Defense and is also affordable.
High Breath Mantle will serve you from 36 to 60. If making money is a problem for you, I suppose you could get by without using Breath Mantle 'til 35, but not getting High Breath Mantle is downright unforgivable. From 61 onwards, Amemet is preferable in most situations, but High Breath Mantle is still useful in situations where your party is stupid and is over hunting so much, you can’t hit the mob at all, and when you do, you don’t do damage.
[Lv.14] Friar's Rope | Def: 2; MP+5; MND+1; Light and Dark Resist+2
[Lv.15] * Warrior’s Belt +1 | Def: 2; HP+4; VIT+3
[Lv.18] * Brave Belt | Def: 3; STR+2; DEX-1; VIT+2; AGI-1
[Lv.20] Mohbwa Sash (+1) | Def: 2 (3); MP+10(12); hMP+1(2)
[Lv.40] Qiqirn Sash (+1) | Def: 4(5); MP+12(14); hMP+2(3)
[Lv.40] * Tilt Belt | Def: 3; Acc+5; Eva-5
[Lv.43] * Swordbelt +1 | Def: 5; Atk+12
[Lv.48] * Life Belt | Def: 0; Acc+10
[Lv.60] Potent Belt | Def: 5; STR+3; Acc+8
Pretty straightforward. Each new belt is better than the last. It’s worth pointing out that Potent Belt is only marginally better offensively than Life Belt. However, it does have 5 Defense for keeping your Defense high while eating Sushi. On the other hand, it costs a pretty penny, so if your budget is tight, upgrading to Potent Belt should be a much lower priority than saving up for Woodsman Rings and Haubergeon.
I guess I should also point out there’s a couple of belts with MP out there that you can use pre-40, if you’re really THAT desperate. As with other MP accessories, don’t wear them full-time. Swap them out when you use the excess MP. But in my opinion, screw that. Oh, and one more thing. If I catch you wearing any variation of the Royal Knight’s Belt, I WILL kill you.
P.S. The latent on the Lv.30 skill belts is only active when your sub corresponds to the belt’s job. So don’t bother getting Rapier Belt (/RDM), and you obviously won’t get any use out of Axe Belt (/WAR.)
[Lv.10] * Scale Cuisses | Def: 7
[Lv.16] * Bone Subligar | Def: 9
[Lv.17] * Lizard Trousers | Def: 10
[Lv.20] * Royal Footman's Trousers | Def: 12; VIT+1
[Lv.24] * Chain Hose | Def: 16
[Lv.25] * Bastokan (Republic) Subligar | Def: 12(13); VIT+1; Atk+3(5); R.Atk+3(5)
[Lv.29] * Eisendiechlings (Kampfdiechlings) | Def: 17(18); VIT+1(2); AGI+1(2)
[Lv.34] * Bastokan (Republic) Cuisses | Def: 17(18); AGI+1(2); In nation: Atk+5(7), R.Atk+5(7)
[Lv.40] Cuisses | Def: 23
[Lv.40] * Royal Squire's Breeches | Def: 22; DEX+1; AGI+1
[Lv.45] * Iron Ram Breeches | Def: 23; DEX+2; AGI+2; Set: Atk+1 and Acc+1 per piece
[Lv.49] Mythril Cuisses | Def: 28
[Lv.50] * Iron Musketeer's Cuisses | Def: 29; AGI+2
[Lv.55] * Royal Knight's Breeches | Def: 30; STR+2; DEX+2; Atk+3
[Lv.58] * Gallant Breeches | Def: 34; HP+15; AGI+3; Enmity+2; Enhancing Magic Skill+5
Between R.K. Breeches and Gallant Breeches, it's pretty close. Not much else to say for this slot.
[Lv.07] Bounding/Leaping Boots | Def: 3; DEX+3; AGI+3
[Lv.10] * Scale Greaves | Def: 3
[Lv.13] * Light Soleas | Def: 4; Eva+3
[Lv.15] Bastokan (Republic) Leggings | Def: 3(4); HP+2(3); MP+2(3); Wind Resist+3; Earth Resist+3
[Lv.15] San d'Orian (Kingdom) Boots | Def: 4(5); HP4(6); Fire Resist+3; Ice Resist+3
[Lv.16] Bone Leggings | Def: 4
[Lv.17] Lizard Ledelsens | Def: 4
[Lv.18] Power Sandals | Def: 3; VIT+3; Fire Resist+7
[Lv.20] * Mage's Sandals | Def: 5; MP+3; AGI+1
[Lv.21] Beetle Leggings | Def: 5
[Lv.24] Greaves | Def: 5
[Lv.29] * Eisenschuhs (Kampfschuhs) | Def: 8(9); VIT+2(3)
[Lv.34] * Bastokan (Republic) Greaves | Def: 8(9); AGI+1(2); In nation: Acc+3(4), R.Acc+3(4)
[Lv.34] Windurstian (Federation) Gaiters | Def: 6(7); AGI+1; In nation: Atk+5(7), R.Atk+5(7)
[Lv.40] Iron Musketeer's Sabatons | Def: 10; R.Acc+5
[Lv.45] Iron Ram Sollerets | Def: 8; AGI+2; Set: Atk+1 and Acc+1 per piece
[Lv.52] Gallant Leggings | Def: 14; HP+15; CHR+5; Shield Skill+10; Enhances Holy Circle
Not much to say, Gallant Leggings rock. To obtain Power Sandals, do the quest Test My Mettle (http://wiki.ffxiclopedia.org/wiki/Test_My_Mettle) but don't give them to the quest starter.
Recommended gear (i.e. gear I would wear) is marked with an asterisk (*); equipment for offensive/hybrid/semi-DD tanking is colored red. Equipment that's just for temporary MP boosts are colored blue, and aren't meant to be worn full-time.
Lv.10-20
[Lv.09] Spatha ...................... | DMG:11 ~ Delay:240 ~ DMG/sec: 2.75 |
[Lv.09] * Spatha +1 ................ | DMG:12 ~ Delay:233 ~ DMG/sec: 3.09 |
[Lv.11] Bee Spatha ............... | DMG:13 ~ Delay:233 ~ DMG/sec: 3.35 |
[Lv.11] * Bee Spatha +1 .......... | DMG:14 ~ Delay:227 ~ DMG/sec: 3.70 | Acc+2
[Lv.18] Fire Sword ................ | DMG:15 ~ Delay:225 ~ DMG/sec: 4.00 | Add'l Effect: Fire damage
[Lv.18] * Flame Sword ............. | DMG:16 ~ Delay:218 ~ DMG/sec: 4.40 | Add'l Effect: Fire damage
[Lv.18] Longsword ................ | DMG:16 ~ Delay:240 ~ DMG/sec: 4.00 |
[Lv.18] * Longsword +1 ........... | DMG:17 ~ Delay:233 ~ DMG/sec: 4.38 |
[Lv.19] Auriga Xiphos (R/E) ... | DMG:17 ~ Delay:224 ~ DMG/sec: 4.55 | Acc+2
If you can't afford HQ swords, the NQs will be fine. There's not much of a difference between Flame Sword and Longsword +1 since the additional effect hardly ever procs on, and when it does, it hardly does damage. While Auriga Xiphos is good, it's not marked because it's an Ex NM drop. Personally, I don't think it's worth the time it takes to get one, but if you want to camp it, or already have it, more power to you.
Lv.21-30
[Lv.25] * Degen ....................... | DMG:14 ~ Delay:224 ~ DMG/sec: 3.75 | Piercing damage
[Lv.25] Degen +1 .................. | DMG:15 ~ Delay:218 ~ DMG/sec: 4.13 | Piercing damage
[Lv.27] Gladius ...................... | DMG:17 ~ Delay:228 ~ DMG/sec: 4.47 |
[Lv.27] * Gladiator ................... | DMG:18 ~ Delay:222 ~ DMG/sec: 4.86 |
[Lv.30] * Centurion's Sword ...... | DMG:19 ~ Delay:225 ~ DMG/sec: 5.07 | Acc+3; Atk+3
Ok, so Degen is actually a Lv.20 sword. I listed it as Lv.25 because it's only useful in the jungles (i.e. Yuhtunga Jungle and Yhoator Jungle) against Mandragoras, since you'll get a 25% piercing damage bonus on your normal hits (WS will still do slashing damage.) The HQ isn't marked because it's relatively rare and very costly for a weapon you're going to get rid of quick. Gladius is hardly an improvement over Flame Sword/Longsword +1, so you can skip it (but Gladiator is good if you fight non-Mandragora mobs.) Centurion's Sword is a no-brainer.
Lv.31-40
[Lv.34] * Republic Sword .......... | DMG:21 ~ Delay:213 ~ DMG/sec: 5.92 | Acc+3; Atk+4; MP+6; Outside of Nation: HP+6
[Lv.34] * Hunting Sword ........... | DMG:27 ~ Delay:264 ~ DMG/sec: 6.14 |
[Lv.34] War Sword ................ | DMG:28 ~ Delay:257 ~ DMG/sec: 6.54 |
[Lv.39] * Grudge Sword ........... | DMG:26 ~ Delay:240 ~ DMG/sec: 6.50 | Enmity+1
War Sword is fantastic, and it looks really bad-ass, but it's somewhat uncommon on the AH, and pretty expensive. If you can't find or afford it, go for a Republic or Hunting Sword. They're both pretty close, so if you're Elvaan or Galka, feel free to pick Republic Sword for the extra MP. On the other hand, Hunting Sword is cheaper and looks cooler. Take your pick.
Lv.41-50
[Lv.42] * Honor Sword (R/E) ..... | DMG:28 ~ Delay:240 ~ DMG/sec: 7.00 | VIT+2; MND+2
[Lv.47] Knight's Sword ........... | DMG:31 ~ Delay:240 ~ DMG/sec: 7.75 |
[Lv.47] * Knight's Sword +1 ...... | DMG:32 ~ Delay:233 ~ DMG/sec: 8.24 |
[Lv.50] * Tct.Mag.Espadon ........ | DMG:38 ~ Delay:257 ~ DMG/sec: 8.87 | Atk+12
Although Grudge Sword is good, I'd prefer the extra damage that Honor Sword has over the Enmity+1. Both Knight's Swords are suitable upgrades to Honor Sword; obviously get the HQ if you can. Tactician Magician's Espadon is absolute ownage, and if you don't have one the second you hit 50, I'll hunt you down and brick you in the face.
Lv.51-60
[Lv.51] * Dark Staff | hMP+10 (That's the only thing that matters about it.)
[Lv.52] Tct.Mag.Espadon +1 ... | DMG:38 ~ Delay:249 ~ DMG/sec: 9.16 | Atk+12; *Outside of Nation:* MP+18
[Lv.52] * Tct.Mag.Espadon +2 ... | DMG:39 ~ Delay:241 ~ DMG/sec: 9.71 | Atk+12; *Outside of Nation:* MP+20
Tactician Magician's Espadon +2 obsoletes pretty much every weapon in the 51-60 range, and it's not terribly expensive. Get it. Also, Dark Staff is insanely useful, you definitely want one too.
Shields are divided into numbered sizes, from 1 through 4. Size 1 shields are bucklers, targes, aspii, and shell shields. Size 2 shields are large, round, flat shields. Size 3 shields are kite shields and ornate shields. Size 4 shields are tower shields. The size of a shield determines both how often you block with it, and by how much damage is reduced on a successful block. Size 3 shields are by far the best for reducing damage; Size 1 are by far the worst. Since the first Size 3 shield comes at Lv.28, from 10-27, Size 2 shields are the next best thing.
Shields such as Lantern Shield, Balance Buckler, Strike Shield, etc. are omitted because they shouldn't be used for tanking due to their lower damage reduction.
[Lv.08] * Maple Shield (+1) | Size: 2 ~ Def: 2 (3)
[Lv.13] * Elm Shield (+1) | Size: 2 ~ Def: 3 (4)
[Lv.14] Fish Scale Shield | Size: 2 ~ Def: 3 | Fire Resist+2; Ice Resist+2; Lightning Resist-2
[Lv.17] Tropical Shield | Size: 2 ~ Def: 3 | Wind Resist +3; Earth Resist+3
[Lv.20] * Mahogany Shield (+1) | Size: 2 ~ Def: 4 (5)
[Lv.28] * Kite Shield | Size: 3 ~ Def: 8
[Lv.38] * Jennet Shield | Size: 3 ~ Def: 10 | VIT+1
[Lv.43] * Heater Shield | Size: 3 ~ Def: 12
[Lv.50] * R.K. Army Shield | Size: 3 ~ Def: 14 | STR+2; MND+1
[Lv.50] T.K. Army Shield | Size: 3 ~ Def: 14 | STR+1; MND+2
[Lv.50] Sentinel Shield | Size: 3 ~ Def: 10 | STR+3; Haste+1%
[Lv.52] * R.K. Army Shield +1 | Size: 3 ~ Def: 15 | STR+2; MND+1; *Outside of Nation:* STR+3
[Lv.52] T.K. Army Shield +1 | Size: 3 ~ Def: 15 | STR+1; MND+2; Outside of Nation: VIT+3
[Lv.55] Royal Guard's Shield | Size: 3 ~ Def: 15 | MND+3; CHR+3; Dark Resist+12
[Lv.58] Wivre Shield | Size: 3 ~ Def: 13 | Enmity+5
[Lv.60] * Iron Ram Shield | Size: 3 ~ Def: 15 | STR+3; VIT+3; Atk+3; Eva+3
Though I marked R.K. Army Shield, T.K. Army Shield is practically the same thing. You can use it if you like its design better. Sentinel Shield is good but you need Lance Coroporal mercenary rank and 8000 IS to get one. Wivre Shield is fantastic but rare and very expensive. Iron Ram Shield is great and cheap, though. No excuse for not getting it.
[Lv.01] Happy Egg (R/E) | HP+1%; VIT+1
[Lv.01] Fortune Egg (R/E) | MP+1%; VIT+1
[Lv.01] Orphic Egg (R/E) | Singing Skill+1; Latent Effect: Acc+1, Atk+1, Eva+1
[Lv.25] Morion Tathlum | MP+3; INT+1
[Lv.30] RSE Sachet | Depends on Race and Gender
[Lv.55] * Lightning Bow +1 | DEX+3; Lightning Resist+7; R.Acc+3
[Lv.58] Tiphia Sting | HP-25; Acc+2; Atk+2; Eva-4
[Lv.60] * Bibiki Seashell | VIT+4; Water Resist+3; Aquan Killer
The eggs are from holiday events, but it's no big deal if you don't have them. Morion Tathlum and the RSE satchets are mentioned for lack of better options.
Lightning Bow+1 is the poor man's Tiphia Sting. On the other hand, while Tiphia Sting has good stats for a gear slot that generally offers next to nothing, for its price, it's one of the last DD pieces you should buy. Bibiki Seashell is a no-brainer though. It's free, and the quest isn't hard, so there's no excuse not to have one.
[Lv.10] Faceguard | Def: 5
[Lv.10] * Royal Footman's Bandana | Def: 5; AGI+1
[Lv.10] Legionnaire's Cap | Def: 5; INT+1
[Lv.16] * Bone Mask | Def: 7
[Lv.17] * Lizard Helm | Def: 7
[Lv.21] * Beetle Mask | Def: 9
[Lv.24] Empress/Emperor Hairpin | Def: 0; HP-15; DEX+3; AGI+3; Evasion+10
[Lv.24] * Iron Mask | Def: 11
[Lv.29] * Eisenschaller | Def: 13; AGI+1
[Lv.40] * Iron Musketeer's Armet | Def: 17; VIT+2
[Lv.43] * Valkyrie's Mask | Def: 16; MP+10; Atk+7
[Lv.50] Rival Ribbon | Def: 15; MP+16; Enmity+2
[Lv.56] * Gallant Coronet | Def: 24; HP+12; MND+3; Enmity+2; Enhances Cover
I highly recommend Valkyrie's Mask, you sacrifice very little and gain a whole lot. For DD tanking, you could even use it over Gallant Coronet if you're not getting walloped too hard. If not, it's still good for Vorpal and Swift Blade. Gallant Coronet is still useful for swapping into Cover, and/or for JAs and Flash as well.
[Lv.07] * Justice Badge | Def: 1; MND+3
[Lv.14] Van Pendant | Def: 3; Enemy crit rate -1%
[Lv.21] * Spike Necklace | Def: 0; STR+3; DEX+3; MND-6
[Lv.24] * Tiger Stole | Def: 2; Atk+5
[Lv.26] Holy Phial | Def: 2; MP+9; MND+3
[Lv.50] * Parade Gorget | Def: 5; MP+10; Latent Effect: Refresh (1 MP/tick)
[Lv.55] * Royal Guard's Collar | Def: 6; Acc+4; Atk+4
Justice Badge is cheap and questable, and even worth hanging on to later for swapping into Cure spells (1 MND = 1 HP 'til you hit the soft cap.) It's especially useful if you choose Spike Necklace over Tiger Stole; you don't want -6 MND gimping your uncapped cures, so might as well macro in Justice Badge since you'd be removing Spike Necklace anyways. You can also macro it in for Seraph Blade. Speaking of Spike Necklace vs Tiger Stole, either one is fine.
Van Pendant is there for lack of options, but you can skip it. Holy Phial is ok if you really need an extra 9 MP in your gear swaps. Don't wear full-time. Parade Gorget is a must-have item. Use it for soloing and in between fights. Don't wear it full-time either, though.
R.G. Collar is cheaper than Chivalrous Chain and does pretty much the same thing 5 levels sooner. Chivalrous Chain is only worth mentioning if you happen to own a Rajas Ring too, and that extra point of Store TP gets you to 100 TP in one hit less.
[Lv.10] * Energy Earring | Def: 0; MP+3; Dark Resist+3
[Lv.16] * Bone Earring (+1) | Def: 0; Atk+1(2); Eva-1
[Lv.21] * Beetle Earring (+1) | Def: 0; Atk+2(3); Eva-2
[Lv.30] Mercenary's Earring | Def: 0; Latent Effect: VIT+2 when sub job = /WAR
[Lv.35] Buckler Earring | Def: 0; Shield Skill+3
[Lv.42] Curaga Earring | Enchantment: Curaga <50/50 | Equip: 0:30 | Recast: 0:20>
[Lv.47] Moldavite Earring | FOR TEH HOLY!!1 Just kidding.
[Lv.50] Insomnia Earring | Def: 0; HP+15; MP+15; Enhances Resist Sleep
[Lv.50] Antivenom Earring | Def: 0; MP+15; hMP+1; Enhances Resist Poison
[Lv.54] * Hospitaler Earring | Def: 3; Cure Potency +5%
[Lv.55] * Fang (Spike) Earring | Def: 0; Atk+4(5); Eva-4(5)
[Lv.58] * Assault Earring | Def: -3; Acc+2; Atk+5; Eva-2
Mercenary's Earring is just there 'cuz if I don't put it, someone'll either mention it or ask about it eventually. It's a waste of money compared to Attack earrings. Buckler Earring...eh, well, on paper it's good, but the truth of the matter is no one knows how much of an impact such a small amount of Shield Skill will actually have, or if it even makes a difference vs EXP mobs in the first place. And it's pretty damned expensive. That's gil better spent on Woodsman Rings and Haubergeon.
Curaga Earring is only handy if you fight mobs with AoE damage, which isn't very likely. Still, it's pretty unique, so I mentioned it; it could come in handy for certain missions or BCNMs. The benefits of Hospitaler's Earring are obvious, but don't wear it full time.
[Lv.10] Legionnaire's Harness | Def: 10; Fire Resist+5
[Lv.10] Royal Footman's Vest | Def: 10; Ice Resist+5
[Lv.10] * Scale Mail | Def: 11
[Lv.16] * Bone Harness | Def: 14
[Lv.17] * Lizard Jerkin | Def: 15
[Lv.21] * Beetle Harness | Def: 17
[Lv.24] * Chainmail (Bannaret Mail) | Def: 21; (Enchantment: HP+15, Enmity+2)
[Lv.29] * Eisenbrust | Def: 24; AGI+2
[Lv.36] * Silver Mail | Def: 28
[Lv.37] * Iron Scale Mail | Def: 28
[Lv.40] Breastplate | Def: 32
[Lv.40] * Royal Squire's Chainmail | Def: 31; DEX+1
[Lv.42] Earth Doublet | Def: 27; VIT+4; Earth Resist+5
[Lv.43] * Ryl.Sqr's. Chainmail +1 | Def: 32; DEX+1; In nation: Atk+6, R.Atk+6
[Lv.45] * Iron Ram Chainmail: | Def: 32; DEX+2; Set: Atk+1 and Acc+1 per piece
[Lv.45] Brigandine | Def: 32; HP+10; VIT+2; DEX+2
[Lv.46] Banded/Steel Scale Mail | Def: 36
[Lv.49] Mythril Breastplate | Def: 39
[Lv.50] * Iron Musketeer's Cuirass | Def: 40; VIT+1
[Lv.50] Parade Cuirass | Def: 38; HP+28; Enmity+2
[Lv.55] * Jaridah Peti | Def: 42; HP-25; Acc+5; Atk+5
[Lv.59] * Haubergeon | Def: 45; STR+5; DEX+5; AGI-5; Acc+10; Atk+10; Eva-20
[Lv.60] Gallant Surcoat | Def: 47(+2); HP+20; Divine Magic Skill+5; Enmity+2
Not much variety in the way of stats before the 50's, so you mostly end up going for Defense, though in many cases it's more than ok to sacrifice a trival 1-2 Defense if you can get some other useful stat (e.g. Iron Ram Chainmail vs Steel Scale Mail.)
Breastplate and Royal Squire's Chainmail are pretty much the same thing, get whichever. Same with Mythril vs Iron Musketeer's. Parade Cuirass is a bitch to get and Jaridah is better at 55. If you have it, great, otherwise, you can skip it.
Jaridah Peti will totally ruin your look, but the stats are too good to pass up. Grit your teeth and bear it. And yes, it IS in your best interests to get a Haubergeon ASAP. It may be expensive, but it's not THAT hard to raise the money (BCNMs got me the gil I needed for all my DD gear) and hardly anything compares with its stats. Once you have a Haub, there's not much reason to use Gallant Surcoat beyond the extra Enmity for JAs and Flash (and the extra Divine Magic Skill will help your Flash not get resisted, too.)
[Lv.10] * Royal Footman's Gloves | Def: 3; Atk+3
[Lv.10] * Legionnaire's Mittens | Def: 3; Atk+3
[Lv.14] * Battle Gloves | Def: 4; Acc+3; Eva+3
[Lv.15] San d'Orian (Kingdom) Gloves | Def: 4(5); Atk+3
[Lv.15] Bastokan (Republic) Gloves | Def: 4(5); Atk+3
[Lv.24] Chain Mittens | Def: 7
[Lv.29] * Eisenhentzes (Kampfhentzes) | Def: 9(10); VIT+1(2)
[Lv.34] Windurstian Gloves | Def: 7; AGI+1; In nation: Atk+5, R.Atk+5
[Lv.40] * Combat Caster's Mitts | Def: 8; Atk+5
[Lv.40] Iron Musketeer's Gauntlets | Def: 12; R.Acc+5
[Lv.45] * Iron Ram Mufflers | Def: 9; Acc+3; Set: Atk+1 and Acc+1 per piece
[Lv.50] Royal Knight's Mufflers | Def: 13; Acc+3
[Lv.54] Gallant Gauntlets | Def: 16; HP+11; DEX+3; Enmity+2; Light Resist+10
[Lv.55] * Fourth Division Gauntlets | Def: 13; Acc+5; Set: Increases HP
Ryl.Ftm. Gloves and Legionnaire's Mitts are the same thing, get whichever. Between those and Battle Gloves, it's pretty close. Battle Gloves probably wins by a slight margin. Pretty ugly though. Windurstian Gloves are situational but they're very nice when they work, and C.C. Mitts are always nice.
Gallant Gauntlets will serve you well for a full level, but after that, you're better off using Fourth Division Gauntlets. Same as Gallant Surcoat and any other AF piece with enmity, though, you can still swap it in for JAs and Flash.
[Lv.10] Astral Ring | HP -> MP +25
[Lv.10] Safeguard Ring | Def:2
[Lv.14] * Mighty Ring | STR+1; Fire Resist+3; Enchantment: Atk+5, R.Atk+5
[Lv.14] * Stamina Ring | VIT+2
[Lv.15] Fasting Ring | HP-20; MP+10; STR+1
[Lv.30] Rajas Ring | STR+2~5; DEX+2~5; Store TP+5; Subtle Blow+5
[Lv.30] Sattva Ring | HP+15~30; VIT+2~5; AGI+2~5; Enmity+3
[Lv.34] * Venerer Ring | Acc+3
[Lv.35] Jaeger Ring | Acc+4; R.Acc+4[/u]
[Lv.36] * Verve Ring | VIT+3
[Lv.40] Electrum Ring | HP-20; MP+20
[Lv.40] Ether Ring | HP -> MP +25
[Lv.40] Mana Ring | MP+15
[Lv.40] * Woodsman Ring | Acc+5; Eva-5
[Lv.42] Mermaid's Ring | Enmity+2
[Lv.50] Phalanx Ring | Def:10
[Lv.50] Unyielding Ring | Def:7; VIT+3; DEX+3; Resist Charm
[Lv.50] Ebullient Ring | HP+15; MP+15; Resist Paralyze
[Lv.50] Guardian Ring | Latent Effect: Shield Bash+10
The ring slot is one of those slots that customize your character rather than define it, and there's a bunch of variations of the same types of rings, available at different levels, prices, and acquisition methods. Because of this, I only marked the most important ones. Rings that are hard to get aren't marked since most people don't have access to them immediately; rings that are hard to get and aren't that useful have been omitted.
Regarding MP rings: These are useful for Elvaan and Galka. However, once you use up the extra MP they provide, you should switch them with something else until it's time to fill up your MP again.
Regarding Defense rings: They're listed as "offensive" rings for one reason only. By 50, when eating Defense food, the extra Defense won't help you much. However, when eating sushi, that extra 20 Defense could be the difference between taking too much damage and having the right amount of Defense to not have to eat Defense food. They're not essential, but they could come in handy. Safeguard Ring's just there for lack of options, though.
Regarding Damage Dealing rings: Mighty Rings are fantastic. +11 Attack is great at any level, but at Lv.14 it's absolutely ridiculous, especially when you consider that the only other thing worth equipping at that level are Stamina Rings, which will only lower the mob's DMG by 1. I'd wear these babies 'til Lv.40, at which point the DD rings of choice would be Woodsman + Venerer or Woodsman x2 depending on your budget. Do be warned, though: you can't remove Mighty Rings or you'll lose the enchantment. You'll also lose the enchantment if you die or zone.
Regarding VIT rings: I know a lot of veteran Paladins will disagree with me, but I don't see them as very useful any more. At low levels Mighty Rings provide an Attack boost that's just too big to ignore; by level 40, VIT isn't as useful as the Accuracy+8 that Woodsman+Venerer give either. Regardless, you can lose Mighty Ring's enchantment in various ways so you should still carry Stamina/Verve Rings until at the very least Lv.40. If you plan on using Accuracy rings at 40+, it's up to you to decide if Verve Rings are worth the inventory space.
Regarding Guardian Ring: the latent effect is activated by having 75% HP or less, and under 100 TP. It adds 10 more damage to your Shield Bash. Maybe it does something else in addition to that (more enmity or stun?) but no one can say for sure. Dirt cheap though so if you want to buy it, go ahead.
[Lv.18] * Breath Mantle | Def: 3; Enchantment: HP+18, Enmity+3
[Lv.36] * High Breath Mantle | Def: 5; Ice Resist+5; Enchantment: HP+38, Enmity+5
[Lv.61] * Amemet Mantle | Def: 7; STR+1; Atk+10; R.Atk+10
[Lv.61] * Amemet Mantle +1 | Def: 8; STR+2; Atk+15; R.Atk+15
These are the only mantles you’ll need to touch from 10-60. Ok, Amemet Mantle is 61, but it deserves the mention. The HQ is expensive but the NQ is cheap and dirt and still gives you 10 Attack. Breath/High Breath Mantles have 50 charges that last 30 minutes each, which means each mantle is good for 25 hours of partying. The only catch is that, like Mighty Rings, you’ll lose the enchantment if you switch it out or die. Pre-18? Just get whatever has the most Defense and is also affordable.
High Breath Mantle will serve you from 36 to 60. If making money is a problem for you, I suppose you could get by without using Breath Mantle 'til 35, but not getting High Breath Mantle is downright unforgivable. From 61 onwards, Amemet is preferable in most situations, but High Breath Mantle is still useful in situations where your party is stupid and is over hunting so much, you can’t hit the mob at all, and when you do, you don’t do damage.
[Lv.14] Friar's Rope | Def: 2; MP+5; MND+1; Light and Dark Resist+2
[Lv.15] * Warrior’s Belt +1 | Def: 2; HP+4; VIT+3
[Lv.18] * Brave Belt | Def: 3; STR+2; DEX-1; VIT+2; AGI-1
[Lv.20] Mohbwa Sash (+1) | Def: 2 (3); MP+10(12); hMP+1(2)
[Lv.40] Qiqirn Sash (+1) | Def: 4(5); MP+12(14); hMP+2(3)
[Lv.40] * Tilt Belt | Def: 3; Acc+5; Eva-5
[Lv.43] * Swordbelt +1 | Def: 5; Atk+12
[Lv.48] * Life Belt | Def: 0; Acc+10
[Lv.60] Potent Belt | Def: 5; STR+3; Acc+8
Pretty straightforward. Each new belt is better than the last. It’s worth pointing out that Potent Belt is only marginally better offensively than Life Belt. However, it does have 5 Defense for keeping your Defense high while eating Sushi. On the other hand, it costs a pretty penny, so if your budget is tight, upgrading to Potent Belt should be a much lower priority than saving up for Woodsman Rings and Haubergeon.
I guess I should also point out there’s a couple of belts with MP out there that you can use pre-40, if you’re really THAT desperate. As with other MP accessories, don’t wear them full-time. Swap them out when you use the excess MP. But in my opinion, screw that. Oh, and one more thing. If I catch you wearing any variation of the Royal Knight’s Belt, I WILL kill you.
P.S. The latent on the Lv.30 skill belts is only active when your sub corresponds to the belt’s job. So don’t bother getting Rapier Belt (/RDM), and you obviously won’t get any use out of Axe Belt (/WAR.)
[Lv.10] * Scale Cuisses | Def: 7
[Lv.16] * Bone Subligar | Def: 9
[Lv.17] * Lizard Trousers | Def: 10
[Lv.20] * Royal Footman's Trousers | Def: 12; VIT+1
[Lv.24] * Chain Hose | Def: 16
[Lv.25] * Bastokan (Republic) Subligar | Def: 12(13); VIT+1; Atk+3(5); R.Atk+3(5)
[Lv.29] * Eisendiechlings (Kampfdiechlings) | Def: 17(18); VIT+1(2); AGI+1(2)
[Lv.34] * Bastokan (Republic) Cuisses | Def: 17(18); AGI+1(2); In nation: Atk+5(7), R.Atk+5(7)
[Lv.40] Cuisses | Def: 23
[Lv.40] * Royal Squire's Breeches | Def: 22; DEX+1; AGI+1
[Lv.45] * Iron Ram Breeches | Def: 23; DEX+2; AGI+2; Set: Atk+1 and Acc+1 per piece
[Lv.49] Mythril Cuisses | Def: 28
[Lv.50] * Iron Musketeer's Cuisses | Def: 29; AGI+2
[Lv.55] * Royal Knight's Breeches | Def: 30; STR+2; DEX+2; Atk+3
[Lv.58] * Gallant Breeches | Def: 34; HP+15; AGI+3; Enmity+2; Enhancing Magic Skill+5
Between R.K. Breeches and Gallant Breeches, it's pretty close. Not much else to say for this slot.
[Lv.07] Bounding/Leaping Boots | Def: 3; DEX+3; AGI+3
[Lv.10] * Scale Greaves | Def: 3
[Lv.13] * Light Soleas | Def: 4; Eva+3
[Lv.15] Bastokan (Republic) Leggings | Def: 3(4); HP+2(3); MP+2(3); Wind Resist+3; Earth Resist+3
[Lv.15] San d'Orian (Kingdom) Boots | Def: 4(5); HP4(6); Fire Resist+3; Ice Resist+3
[Lv.16] Bone Leggings | Def: 4
[Lv.17] Lizard Ledelsens | Def: 4
[Lv.18] Power Sandals | Def: 3; VIT+3; Fire Resist+7
[Lv.20] * Mage's Sandals | Def: 5; MP+3; AGI+1
[Lv.21] Beetle Leggings | Def: 5
[Lv.24] Greaves | Def: 5
[Lv.29] * Eisenschuhs (Kampfschuhs) | Def: 8(9); VIT+2(3)
[Lv.34] * Bastokan (Republic) Greaves | Def: 8(9); AGI+1(2); In nation: Acc+3(4), R.Acc+3(4)
[Lv.34] Windurstian (Federation) Gaiters | Def: 6(7); AGI+1; In nation: Atk+5(7), R.Atk+5(7)
[Lv.40] Iron Musketeer's Sabatons | Def: 10; R.Acc+5
[Lv.45] Iron Ram Sollerets | Def: 8; AGI+2; Set: Atk+1 and Acc+1 per piece
[Lv.52] Gallant Leggings | Def: 14; HP+15; CHR+5; Shield Skill+10; Enhances Holy Circle
Not much to say, Gallant Leggings rock. To obtain Power Sandals, do the quest Test My Mettle (http://wiki.ffxiclopedia.org/wiki/Test_My_Mettle) but don't give them to the quest starter.