Dragon Warrior III/Armors

Most equipment can be bought, but some can only be found or dropped by enemies. Some things can cast spells (at no MP cost) by using it as an item in battle, however only classes that can equip and item can use it as an item. Cursed items have a negative impact on your party and cannot be removed except by visiting a healer in town or using the Curse Off spell.

* Item is found in a chest at this location

** Item is dropped by this monster

Weapons
Weapons, especially for the Hero and Soldiers are the most important piece of equipment, and if you have to choose between upgrading their weapon or their armor, get the best weapon possible. As soon as you get a ship, go and buy Zombie Slashers for your Pilgrims and Sages. Weapons are a low priority for all other classes, and most weapons will actually decrease a Fighter's attack.

Armor
Armor offers stronger protection than shields or helmets, but at a higher price. No armor can be used as an item, but some pieces offer protection against certain types of attacks automatically (if they're worn, anyway).

Shields
Shields provide a fair amount of protection at a reasonable cost, especially for Pilgrims and Sages, who cannot use the strongest armor.

Helmets
Like Shields, Helmets provide effective defense at a relatively low cost. Unlike the other three types of equipment, there is no special piece for the Hero. While the Iron Helmet has a list price of 2000 gold, it is only available from one of the dealers in Assaram who charges double, so it costs 4000 gold.