The Herald of Zakarum is arguably the best Paladin shield in the game, regardless of whether you’re playing a [Smiter], a Hammerdin or some other build. The only serious competition for it is a Spirit Paladin shield, preferrably one with a base Resist All +30% - 40%, in which case you’ll find yourself haggling over the superior +Skills, +Block Chance and +Block Rate offered by Herald of Zakarum versus the +Cast Rate and +Mana offered by Spirit. This choice will probably come down to whatever other gear you have on-hand and player preference, but with effectively +4 to Combat Skills (like Blessed Hammer and Smite), +50% to All Resistances, moderate bonuses to Strength and Vitality, and incredible blocking stats, it’s hard to argue against Herald of Zakarum.

Herald of Zakarum is a mid-tier drop, with an iLv of 50 it’s one of the many, many great items that can be dropped by Nightmare Mephisto. Alas, it’s still a somewhat rare and valauble drop, despite being mid-tier.

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Herald of Zakarum makes a strong case for being the best Paladin shield in the game - certainly the best unique.

Herald of Zakarum (Gilded Shield)¶

Herald of Zakarum Stats

• +2 to Combat Skills (Paladin Only)
• +2 to Paladin Skill Levels
• +30% Faster Block Rate
• +30% Increased Chance of Blocking
• 20% Bonus to Attack Rating
• +150% - +200% Enhanced Defense (variable)
• +20 to Strength
• +20 to Vitality
• All Resistances +50