Berg's Tank Gear Rankings (Updated 02/10/2008 - wow version 2.4)

The definite source for this guide will now be maintained on Tankspot http://www.tankspot.com/forums/theory-articles-guides/32083-bergs-tank-gear-rankings.html

I will continue to crosspost to the official wow forums, but Tankspot allows item link popups, advanced formating and I've never read someone type "L2PLAY". The itemstat popups really make the guide much more useful.


Yes its another warrior gear guide. Warriors are the most gear dependant class in the game, and we seem to have the most guides. This one is a quantitative analysis of physical mitigation/avoidance gear (tanking gear) based off the popular mod Tankpoints 2.6.8 by Whitetooth http://wow.curse.com/downloads/details/992/ Tankpoints turns the various tanking stats such as stamina, armor and defense rating into a number that represents how long you can last without heals given a boss mob beating on you physically. This number represents your hitpoints given no physical damage reduction, for example: 10k hitpoints and 50% reduction equals 20k tankpoints.


Why do we need another tank gear guide?

I like having a gear guide and found Evergreen's pre-MC gear guide a must have for the lvl 60 days. But I prefer an objective quantitative analysis such as Cronedog's guides, but I just wish it was kept up to date more often :-) (Respect to both Warriors) This guide will be very similar to Cronedog's, with just some slight variations.

Update log:

05/08/2007 - initial version created. This is a first draft, so if you see incorrect links or badly done values, let me know
05/10/2007 - added in gem set bonuses where an item has all blue, added Goblin Rocket Launcher to trinkets.
05/22/2007 - Updated all gear for patch 2.1 - massive updates, and I will make extra 2.1 commentary in the sections to highlight changes
05/31/2007 - New items: The Fel Barrier, Gauntlets of Dissension, Spaulders of Dementia, Yor's Revenge, A'dal's Signet of Defense, Darkmoon Card: Vengeance, Darkmoon Card: Madness, Violet Badge
06/19/2007 - The Boomstick, Merciless Gladiator set, new Honor veteran items
07/05/2007 - Added SSC and the Eye
07/13/2007 - Added forgotten item: Seventh Ring of the Tirisfalen
08/23/2007 - Added item links (Tankspot version)
08/28/2007 - Added Black Temple and Hyjal (All items as of 2.1 now complete!), switched to Armory links where available
10/02/2007 - Patch 2.2 - Pepe's Shroud of Pacification, new Jewelcrafter only gems, updated the DPS of the 2 SSC weapons
10/17/2007 - Patch 2.3 - Zul'Aman and new badge reward preview
11/16/2007 - Finalized 2.3 items added S3 Arena gear, Spinesever, and Glove Reinforcements
02/10/2008 - Tankspot site updated with 2.4 preview


Stats:

Most gear guides give a breakdown of stats. I figure that information is already given elsewhere, I'll just state some info that is less commonly available:

1 Stamina > 10 hitpoints. Stamina is affected by Blessing of Kings and the warrior talent Vitality.

1 Strength > 2 Attack Power. Strength is affected by Blessing of Kings and the warrior talent Vitality. We are also the only class that benefits the most from Strength, so items that stack it heavily are made for warriors and you don't have to fight over the roll. 20 Strength also gives you 1 Block Value.

+Block increases the amount of damage reduced during a shield block and the +Block value is added onto Shield Slam damage so it is also an aggro stat. Shield Slam is one of the few moves that scale with gear, so stacking +Block is important. Personally, I keep all gear with +Block just so I have a set of gear that can put out some ridiculous shield slam crits.

Resilience will count as 0 tankpoints in all items that have it in this guide since the baseline is always over the 490 defense mark, but it does have a useful benefit. If you are trading off some tanking gear for aggro generating gear, you usually try to remain crit-immune. If some of your gear has resilience, the defense cap is actually lowered. For example, if you have the Gladiator's Shield Wall, then your defense cap is actually 472.

Items with gem slots have a lot of flexibility. 3 gem slots could add 36 Stamina to an item, or +1.5% to hit. When you get a mitigation upgrade and replace a socketed item, often the right gems can turn your replaced gear into an excellent aggro piece.

Expertise is the 2.3 replacement of weapon skills and is now the top tank aggro stat along with giving burst damage avoidance. This stat reduces the mobs chance to dodge and parry. This is a HUGE stat for tanks, and in patch 2.3 we can now gear to maximize it. First of all mob parries are tank killers. Back to back parries along with a special attack are those rare events where your health goes from full to empty in 2 seconds. Expertise is a avoidance stat in that it reduces those parries. If you are a big fan of Effective Health gearing and evening out damage received to make healing easier, then reducing mob parries is one of the best ways to get rid of those damage spikes. But not only does expertise prevent parries, it is also an overpowered aggro stat. 5 Expertise skill gives you the equivalent to 2.5% +hit (-1.25% mob dodge and -1.25% mob parry) and it will stack along with all your +hit gear.

+hit is the #2 aggro generating stat for tanks and is capped at 9.0% for a pve skull boss. Generally any time I choose aggro gear over mitigation gear it will be a piece with +hit on it. On the gear below I will note any piece that has +hit because it is that important.

Strength/Attack Power will increase your white damage, Revenge and Devastate damage only (and shield slam damage in a tiny amount). All other abilities do not scale with attack power.

Agility is a magical stat that increases both your damage reduction and your crit rating. 30 Agility = +60 Armor +1% Dodge +.91% Crit and crit will affect both your white damage and your special ability damage (because it can crit). Stacking agility for aggro usually doesn't have as much defensive opportunity cost as the other stats. I will rank +crit last since stacking Agility is usually a better way to get crit and the items that carry it often are not made for tanks.

Haste rating will increase your swing timer but not the global cooldown, so a 2% haste buff will make a 1.8 speed weapon hit every 1.78 seconds. This only affects white damage and Heroic Strikes, not Shield Slams and all other tanking abilities. Not worth stacking for aggro and few tank items have it.

Armor Penetration reduces the mitigation of the mob and stacks with Sunder. This will affect both white damage and special moves so it is a better tanking aggro stat than haste but is more beneficial to use it on mobs with low armor. For Example, Void Reaver has a 50% mitigation and 10700 armor, and Shade of Aran has 26.5% mitigation and 3800 armor. Sunder will take away 2600 armor leaving their mitigation at 43.1% and 9.4% respectively (ALWAYS keep that stack sunders up on bosses). 100 Armor penetration will give .3% DPS increase on Void Reaver and .8% DPS increase on Shade of Aran. Armor penetration gives more benefit the lower you can bring the mobs armor, so it is something you need to stack alot of to gain efficiency. So adding armor penetration is really only of penefit if you've already met the 8.6% hit cap and you are fighting a soft boss.

Aggro generating stats:

1.) Expertise
2.) Hit
3.) Agility
4.) Strength
5.) Crit


Gearing Strategy

To understand how to gear yourself you first need to understand Effective Health Theory and how to gear for progression raiding:

http://www.tankspot.com/forums/theory-articles-guides/1060-effective-health-theory.html

Then understand the different roles/situations you will be tanking in. Understand when you need to gear for aggro and what to do to tank magic damage. Read Ciderhelm's Fortification guide for that:

http://tankspot.com/index.php?pageid=Fortifications-Guide


Now, hopefully you understand the key concepts of those excellent guides as related to gearing. Tankpoints and this guide focuses on balance.

Tankpoints gives you an effective hitpoint number similar to Effective Health Theory, except that it also counts in avoidance. Without going into pages upon pages of formulas, the value of health, mitigation and avoidance upgrades change in relationship to each other as the values increase. Given the current itemization and what warriors will experience with upgrades: mitigation/armor scales tankpoints linearly, stamina/health scales tankpoints with diminishing returns and avoidance scales tankpoints with increasing returns. A tank in dungeon blues will have 1 stamina > 1 agility > 1 defense rating, but a tank in full Kara gear will have 1 stamina < 1 agility < 1 defense rating. Maybe I'll produce graphs someday, but the point is you can't use a simple point weighting system to determine the best upgrade, and the helpful mod Tankpoints will do this math for you.

But no matter how much avoidance you have you will encounter a streak of bad luck where avoidance fails you for 3-6 hits in a row and you need to survive this. We need to choose gear that gives us the most tanking stats, but also keeps effective health as a top priority. So as a general rule, keep trying to accumulate items with higher tankpoints. Tankpoints value balance and favors items that improve your capabilities the most overall. If two items are close in value, go with the one with more stamina as a tiebreaker. Your Effective Health is most easily increased through the use of stamina gems and stamina enchants. Always favor effective health theory in this area (thou shall not socket dodge/parry gems).

<Intro continued>

Reducing physical damage is only a small part of proper tank gearing. In a magic-based fight, stamina is the only stat that matters (and sometimes the various magical resistances). If you ever have two relatively equal gear pieces, always go with the one that has the most stamina, and just for a quick reference, I will always list the stamina of every item.

Generating aggro is often more important in fights than physical mitigation. I almost never wear gear that equals my maximum possible tank points. The more damage you mitigate the less rage you have, and the less you can spam your aggro generating moves. The ideal tanking gear for a situation is the weakest damage reduction you can wear so that your healers can reliably keep you up. In some of the slots, I will list some aggro generating gear and give you an idea of how much damage reduction you are sacrificing.






Measurement conditions:

The tankpoints calculated in this ranking use a baseline lvl 70 protection warrior in lvl 70 tank gear fighting a lvl 73 skull boss that hits for 7480 damage before damage reduction swinging at 2.0 speed. This is an important baseline to use due to the 490 defense elimination of critical hits. If there are no critical hits, resilience has no value in calculations, the value of defense does not include crit reduction anymore. The baseline warrior is Berginyon of Aegwynn's baseline gear Kara/T4 level epics gemed for effective health including enchants. I use my gear so that I can easily calculate tankpoints on other items more quickly, and I will keep this gear set for future calculations. Keeping this guide up-to-date with Blizzards additions, buffs and nerfs is what will make it a useful reference. I don't claim to have the greatest gear, but I'm sure the "l2play" geniuses will have fun critiquing it regardless.

My base stats in my baseline gear:

15.5k health
16.5k armor
81.25% total damage reduction
38k effective health


(Note: I have changed the baseline I use to rank gear to a set of full-Kara/T4 level gear. This gear reprepresents an 8k effective health upgrade over the old baseline even though my total damage reduction is about the same. This should more closely represent the stats of raiding warriors since effective health doesn't change all that much over the tiers.)

To do each calculation, I'll compare the item to an empty slot in that position while in defensive stance, but with all the other gear. This means there is a slightly different baseline for each gear slot, so 1000 tankpoints in a bracer slot is not exactly the same as 1000 tankpoints in a shield slot but should be pretty close. But within a single gear slot, all values should be relatively comparable. If your gear varies greatly from the stats listed above, the tankpoints numbers in this guide do not apply to you. It can still be a helpful reference on gear, but you might want to download the mod and see what stats it thinks you need to prioritize.

Since people that use gear guides are typically looking to max out their gear, all gem slots count as the best Effective Health readily available gem (Solid Star of Elune). Red, Yellow and Blue slots are all counted as a +12 Stamina gem. A meta gem counts as a +18 Stamina gem for Powerful Earthstorm Diamond.

I don't count set bonuses or procs. Too hard to measure, but I'll asterisk the item and note when it has bonus features.

I'll list the tank points in a value like TP:6387(4854 base). In this example the item has 4854 tank points unsocketed, 6387 loaded with Stamina gems.

This guide will include all BC 5 man dungeons, BC heroic mode dungeons, PVP gear, crafted items, and raid encounters. In some slots I will list the best lvl 60 items, or best quest rewards if they are exceptional, but don't consider it comprehensive.







Disclaimer:

As I mention above, Tankpoints measures physical reduction/survivability ONLY. Don't treat this as the ultimate guide to tank gearing, just a quantitative analysis of one aspect of tanking. (Half the people that respond to this thread don't read that line :-) )

Ignore tankpoint differences or 300 or less. You can consider these pieces equivalent, and can focus on stacking whatever stats are important to a fight. The gain is negligible and since defense only increases when your defense skill goes up by 1, sometimes 2 defense rating points won't even register since it takes 2.4 rating points to increase the skill.

Proper tank gearing is both situational (it depends on what your are tanking) and contextual (each gear choice is dependant on your spec and what your other gear choices are). There will never be a guide that applies to all situations, but hopefully I provide enough information for this to be a useful resource.



Patch 2.3 Commentary

Devastate now applies Sunder armor so you no longer have to stack them then switch over, and Devastate now benefits from Improved Sunder and you can do it for 9 rage. I used a non-devastate dagger build through most of Kara, but the benefits and rage efficency of devastate now make that build hard to justify.

All tanks got +6 Expertise as a bonus on Defiance. That +6 expertise gives the equivalent of +3% hit as -1.5% mob dodge reduction and -1.5% mob parry reduction.

Expertise is now the top tank aggro stat. 1 Expertise skill gives you -.25% mob dodge and -.25% mob parry. Back-to-Back boss parries along with a special attack are those rare events that instantly kill you and you are left wondering WTF? Expertise is an avoidance stat in that it is the only way to reduce those killer parries in addition to being a completely overpowered tank aggro stat. 2.3 gives us two new Expertise items available as Heroic Badge rewards: Brooch of Deftness (703AC, 45STA, 23Def, 22Expertise [5.64 skill]). Not only are these a must have for any aggro gearset, I would use them on almost any fight for the parry reduction.

If you get enough items from Zul'Aman and heroic badges, you might have problems meeting the Defense cap of 490. Creative uses of gems, socket bonuses and resilience will help you hit the mark. This will be something you have to manage instead of taking it for granted in the tiered sets.

There are quite a few items that could be used to attain passive uncrushability in this patch. As long as you don't stack too much dodge, you should be able to generate enough rage to make it work using the rage you would have spent on shield block on aggro.
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GEMS

The tankpoints generated here are for relative comparison between stones. I'll list them all here in case there is an attractive color bonus. 90% of your gem slots should be Solid Star of Elune (if you are pre-BT) regardless of socket color, and all socketted items assume they are filled with Solid Star of Elune.

If you have dungeon blues and/or half Kara gear, 12 Stamina will give you more tankpoints than 8 Dodge. The current baseline is full Kara gear so Tankpoints on +8 dodge is greater than on the stamina. DO NOT sacrifice your Effective Health for avoidance! Gemming for stamina is a critical part of progression gearing.

If you are a JC, it would be worth socketing the new 18 Stamina, 12 Defense and 24 AP gems (in an aggro item) since they just give such a nice stat benefit.

Top gems per socket type/color:

Meta


Powerful Earthstorm Diamond (18 STA) *best crafted meta* TP:1028
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=25896 (crafted)
* bonus: 5% stun resist

Tenacious Earthstorm Diamond (12 DEF) TP:995
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=25898 (crafted)
* bonus: health on hit



Red

Subtle Crimson Spinel (red, +10 dodge) TP:860
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32198 (crafted)

Regal Tanzanite (purple, +5 dodge, +6 STA) TP:754
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30563 (Heroic Shadow Labs - Murmur)

Stalwart Fire Opal (orange +5 DEF, +4 dodge) TP:740
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30554 (Heroic Sethekk Halls - Talon King Ikiss)

Flashing Crimson Spinel (red, +10 parry) TP:687
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32199 (crafted)

Subtle Living Ruby (red, +8 dodge) TP:687 *best crafted red*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=24032 (crafted)

Shifting Shadowsong Amethyst (purple, +5 AGI, +7 STA) TP:682
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32212 (crafted)

Defender's Tanzanite (purple, +5 parry, +6 STA) TP:668
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30566 (Heroic Mechanar - Pathaleon)

Glistening Fire Opal (orange, +5DEF, +4 AGI) TP:639
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30585

Shifting Nightseye (purple, +4 AGI, +6 STA) TP:567
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=24055 (crafted)

Flashing Living Ruby (red, +8 parry) TP:548
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=24036 (crafted)



Yellow

Facet of Eternity (yellow +12 Defense) TP:995
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33144 (Jewelcrafter only)

Thick Lionseye (yellow +10 Defense) TP:794
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32208 (crafted)

Enduring Seaspray Emerald (green, +5 DEF, +7 STA) TP:776
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32223 (crafted)

Stalwart Fire Opal (orange +5 DEF, +4 dodge) TP:740
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30554 (Heroic Sethekk Halls - Talon King Ikiss)

Enduring Chrysoprase (green, +6 STA, +5 DEF) TP:721
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30590 (Heroic Hillsbrad - Epoch Hunter)

Glistening Fire Opal (orange, +5DEF, +4 AGI) TP:639
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30585

Thick Dawnstone (yellow +8 Defense) TP:594 *best crafted yellow*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=24052 (crafted)

Enduring Talasite (green, +4 D

Typically tanks favor fast high DPS weapons. When you are tanking in a raid instance, you will usually generate rage faster than you can spend it using the global 1.5 sec cooldown. If rage builds up to 100 it means opportunities to generate aggro is being lost because the rage cannot be spent fast enough. Heroic Strike can be used outside of the global cooldown and it will occur on your next melee attack, so a 2.0 speed weapon can Heroic Strike every 2 seconds. Heroic Strike lets a tank dump excess rage and gives 220 bonus threat and 176 bonus damage. Therefore, in an infinite rage situation, weapon speed allows the Heroic Strike bonus to occur more often and provides for a significant threat per second bonus.

2.6 speed weapon = 152.3 threat/sec bonus from Heroic Strike spamming
2.4 = 165
2.2 = 180
2.0 = 198
1.8 = 220
1.7 = 232.9
1.6 = 247.5
1.5 = 267
1.4 = 282.9
1.3 = 304.6

So the difference between a 2.6 speed weapon and a 1.4 speed weapon is 130.6 threat/sec, and that is a substantial amount. Have a priest friend watch your rage bar during a boss fight and if he sees it stay full frequently and assuming you are not playing badly, then it means you need a faster weapon. Personally, I won't take a weapon above 1.8 speed.

Aside from speed, choosing a tanking weapons can be a rather complicated process. First of all you will likely carry a mitigation weapon and an aggro weapon. In 90% of the fights, you should be using an aggro weapon. What determines a good aggro weapon actually depends on your spec and playstyle. If you are a Devastate protection warrior, you shouldn't use daggers. Instant attacks were normalized with attack power in the 1.8 patch, and a dagger has a harsher normalization factor. The 2.3 patch introduced a 9 rage Devastate that also stacks a sunder making it too good to pass up so an Impale Dagger build is viable, but less attractive. If you are spec'd with Improved Heroic Strike and can do it for 9 rage, weapon speed becomes the most important stat above all others, because Heroic Strike becomes more rage efficient than Sunder Armor and you will do it continuously during the fight. Devastate will do slightly more damage with a slower weapon, but the benefit to Heroic Strike far outweighs the normalized loss to Devastate.



Mitigation weapons

A mitigation weapon should give you some bonus tankpoints, but it should not nerf your aggro generation. People tend to be over-concerned with mitigation stats on tank weapons. Spineshatter has lots of tank stats but was an AWFUL tanking weapon. A 2.6 speed weapon back in the lvl 60 days had no purpose being in a tank's hands. Your mitigation weapon will be used in fights such as High King Maulgar. Since you get such a head start on him, no one is going to pull aggro, so putting max tank points on improves your survivability.

Entry level raiding: Grom'tor's charge is a weapon that everyone should start out with. Sun Eater is easily attainable after that with enough Heroic Mech runs, and will be the top mitigation weapon until Black Temple. Any of the fast weapons with +hit could easily be an all-purpose weapon, and King's Defender is the best mitigation+aggro weapon and I doubt you will have much use for Sun Eater after you pull it from Kara. Blade of the Unrequited is a dagger but with 3 stamina gems it would give 46STA which is crazy for a weapon slot. If no rogues need it, take it.

Tier 5 raiding: Your only upgrade is Mallet of the Tides. You gain some dps and trade weapon skill for +hit (which is a good trade).

Tier 6 raiding: The top mitigation weapon is a sword out of Hyjal, but I would favor the Brutalizer's weapon skill over the added mitigation stats.


Patch 2.3 comments: Mallet of the Tides and the BT weapons are still superior to all the new weapons. The new cleaver gives both a tanking bonus and an aggro bonus over King's Defender.


1. The Unbreakable Will 100.3dps 1.6 Sword 33STA TP:4686
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30874 (Anetheron - Hyjal)

2. The Sun Eater 83.4dps 1.6 Sword 22STA TP:3995
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29362 (Heroic Mechanar - Pathaleon the Calculator)

3. Cleaver of the Unforgiving 98.3dps, 1.7 axe 31STA +0.8%hit TP:3690(3031 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33476 (Zul'Aman - Zul'jin)
* 1 gem slot

4. Umbral Shiv 95.6dps, 1.8 dagger 30STA +0.8%hit TP:3644(2346 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33493 (Zul'Aman - timed event)
* 2 gem slots (NOTE this is a Dagger)

5. The Brutalizer 100.3dps 1.6 Axe 33STA TP:3548
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32254 (Supremus - Black Temple)

6. King's Defender 87.5dps 1.6 Sword 28STA +1.1%hit TP:3352
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28749 (Karazhan - Chess Event)

7. Grom'tor's Charge 67.2dps 1.6 Axe 30STA TP:3020
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=31071 (Shadowmoon quest)

8. Messenger of Fate 100.4dps 1.4 Dagger 31STA TP:2996
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32269 (Gurtogg Bloodboil - Black Temple)
* (NOTE this is a Dagger)

9. Mallet of the Tides 33STA 96.8dps 1.7 Mace TP:2957
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30058 (SSC - The Lurker Below)

10. Blazefury 97.5dps 1.6 Sword 28STA +1.1%hit TP:2655
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28427 (crafted master swordsmith)

11. Blade of the Unrequited 87.5dps 1.6 Dagger 13STA+ *top stamina* TP:2635(688 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28572 (Karazhan - opera Romeo)
* 3 gem slots (NOTE this is a Dagger)

12. Retainer's Blade 81.0dps 1.5 Dagger 21STA TP:2458
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29125 (Scryers Exaulted)
* (NOTE this is a Dagger)

13. Blazeguard 91.2dps 1.6 Sword 25STA +1.1%hit TP:2375
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28426 (crafted master swordsmith)

14. Warp-Storm Warblade 71.8dps 1.7 Sword 21STA +1.0%hit TP:2313
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28400 (Heroic Mana Tombs - Nexus-Prince Shaffar)

15. Fireguard 84.4dps 1.6 Sword 23STA +1.0%hit TP:2209
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28425 (crafted master swordsmith)

16. Truncheon of Five Hells 71.7dps 1.8 Mace 19STA +0.9%hit TP:2206
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27476 (Heroic Ramparts - Omar)

17. Warbringer 81.1dps 1.8 Axe/Sword 13STA +0.5%hit TP:2024
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29156 (Honor's Hold Exaulted)














Aggro weapons

For these weapons you can ignore mitigation stats and just go for aggro stats, the most important being speed+dps. I will list daggers separately for those without Devastate.

Tankpoints is an great objective tool for analyzing tanking stats, but there really isn't one for aggro/dps. Attack power/Strength can be converted to DPS in a straight formula, but hit/crit depends on all your other stats. Any of the above mitigation weapons that have +hit on them are suitable all-purpose weapons.

Entry level: Most options depend on a non-devastate build w/ a Dagger, or having a profession such as Blacksmithing. Go for speed and DPS.

Tier 5 comments: SSC and the Eye have weapons with +expertise on them, the top tanking aggro stat.

Tier 6 comments: I would fight the rogues for Blade of Savagery. A 100dps 1.4 speed sword with 1% hit on it makes it the top aggro weapon, but all those rogues and fury warriors are going to want it for their offhand.

[COLOR="Plum"]
Patch 2.3 comments: Mallet of the Tides and the BT weapons are still superior to all the new weapons. But they do offer a nice aggro bonus over King's Defender.
[/COLOR]


1.4 speed

Blade of Savagery 100.4dps 1.4 Sword 19STA +1.0%hit TP:1058
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32369 (Mother Shahraz - Black Temple)

Latro's Shifting Sword 71.8dps 1.4 Sword TP:866
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28189 (Black Morass - Aeonus)



1.5 speed

Swiftsteel Bludgeon 100.3dps 1.5 Mace +1.2%hit TP:0
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32943 (Black Temple trash)
* 27 haste rating

Akil'zon's Talonblade 95.7dps, 1.5 sword 25STA TP:1375
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33214 (Zul'Aman - Akil'zon)

Blackout Truncheon 69.7dps 1.5 Mace 0STA+ TP: 1298(0 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27901 (Shadow Labs - Grandmaster Vorpil)
* 2 gem slots, haste proc



1.6 speed

The Brutalizer 100.3dps 1.6 Axe 33STA TP:3548
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32254 (Supremus - Black Temple)

The Unbreakable Will 100.3dps 1.6 Sword 33STA TP:4686
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30874 (Anetheron - Hyjal)

Blazefury 97.5dps 1.6 Sword 28STA +1.1%hit TP:2655
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28427 (crafted master swordsmith)

Blazeguard 91.2dps 1.6 Sword 25STA +1.1%hit TP:2375
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28426 (crafted master swordsmith)

King's Defender 87.5dps 1.6 Sword 28STA +1.1%hit TP:3352
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28749 (Karazhan - Chess Event)

Fireguard 84.4dps 1.6 Sword 23STA +1.0%hit TP:2209
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28425 (crafted master swordsmith)



1.7 speed


Cleaver of the Unforgiving 98.3dps, 1.7 axe 31STA +0.8%hit TP:3690(3031 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33476 (Zul'Aman - Zul'jin)
* 1 gem slot

Mallet of the Tides 33STA 96.8dps 1.7 Mace TP:2957
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30058 (SSC - The Lurker Below)

Warp-Storm Warblade 71.8dps 1.7 Sword 21STA +1.0%hit TP:2313
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28400 (Heroic Mana Tombs - Nexus-Prince Shaffar)

Bogreaver 71.8dps 1.7 Axe 15STA TP:793
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27767 (Heroic Underbog - Swamplord Musel'ek)




1.8 speed

Grand Marshal's Bonecracker 71.7dps 1.8 Mace 18STA TP:952
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28950 (22500 Honor, 20 Eye Marks)

Grand Ma

<Weapons continued>

Daggers (Weapons Continued)

Rogue weapons always have aggro stats on them. When I was a non-Devastate warrior, I had Dirge crafted as soon as I could (the other tank weapons haven't dropped for me yet so it turned out to be a great investment). I can frequently hold 1k threat/sec on Gruul trash with Dirge (Gruul trash hits hard and provides infinite rage, but doesn't do glancing blows). I wont rank these daggers, but I'd like to point out a couple: Dirge its crafted, has high dps and 1.4 speed. And Warp Splinter's Thorn which has an ideal set of tank aggro stats, 71.5dps and 1.3 speed, fastest weapon in the game. I would use one of the 1.6 speed mitigation swords above before I'd use a 1.8 speed dagger, but I listed them here anyway.

Entry level raiding: Have Dirge crafted, or get Warp Splinter's Thorn.

Tier 5 raiding: I don't like anything at this level, let the rogues have them. You will probably have a Devastate/Improved Defensive Stance/Vitality build for SSC and will be using either King's Defender or Mallet of the Tides.

Tier 6 raiding: Messenger of Fate is a great weapon even has a healthy share of mitigation stats, but I would prefer Blade of Savagery.


1.3 speed

Warp Splinter's Thorn 71.5dps 1.3 Dagger 13STA +1.0%hit TP:1620 *fastest mainhand weapon*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28345 (Botanica - Warp Splinter)



1.4 speed

Messenger of Fate 100.4dps 1.4 Dagger 31STA TP:2996
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32269 (Gurtogg Bloodboil - Black Temple)

Feltooth Eviscerator 85.4dps 1.4 Dagger TP:0
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29346 (Heroic Ramparts - Vazruden's chest)

Dirge 83.2dps 1.4 Dagger TP:0
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=23555 (crafted)

Timeslicer 71.8dps 1.4 Dagger 13STA TP:688
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28226 (Heroic Old Hillsbrad - Epoch Hunter)

Twinblade of Mastery 71.8dps 1.4 Dagger 12STA TP:635
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27814 (Heroic Mana Tombs - Pandemonius)

Grand Marshal's Shiv 71.8dps 1.4 Dagger 18STA TP:952
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28930 (22500 Honor, 20 Eye Marks)



1.5 speed

Tracker's Blade 100.3dps 1.5 Dagger +1.3%hit TP:0
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30865 (Rage Winterchill - Hyjal)

Prowler's Strikeblade 95.7dps, 1.5 dagger 30STA TP:1640
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33298 (Zul'Aman - Hex Lord Malacrass)

Retainer's Blade 81.0dps 1.5 Dagger 21STA TP:2458
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29125 (Scryers Exaulted)



1.6 speed

Blade of the Unrequited 87.5dps 1.6 Dagger 13STA+ TP:2635(688 base) *top stamina*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28572 (Karazhan - opera Romeo)
* 3 gem slots

Guile of Khoraazi 81.2dps 1.6 Dagger TP:1100
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29121 (Consortium Exaulted)



1.8 speed

Boundless Agony 100.3dps 1.8 Dagger TP:0
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30901 (Azgalor - Hyjal)

Fang of Vashj 19STA 100.3dps 1.8 speed TP:1058
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30103 (SSC - Lady Vashj)

Merciless Gladiator's Shanker 97.5dps 1.8 Dagger 27STA +0.6%hit TP:1481
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32044 (Arena)

Umbral Shiv 95.6dps, 1.8 dagger 30STA+ +0.8%hit TP:3644(2346 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33493 (Zul'Aman - timed event)
* 2 gem slots

Dagger of Bad Mojo 95.6dps, 1.8 dagger TP:1217
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33389 (Zul'Aman - Hex Lord Malacrass)

Gladiator's Shanker 91.1dps 1.8 Dagger 21STA +0.5%hit TP:1164
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28312 (Arena)

Malchazeen 91.9dps 1.8 Dagger 16STA +1.0%hit TP:846
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28768 (Karazhan - Prince)

Emerald Ripper 87.5dps 1.8 Dagger 18STA TP:2065
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28524 (Karazhan - Moroes)

Terror Flame Dagger 71.7dps 1.8 Dagger 15STA +0.9%hit TP:793
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27463 (Heroic Ramparts - Omar)

Grand Marshal's Shanker 71.7dps 1.8 Dagger 18STA TP:952
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28929 (22500 Honor, 20 Eye Marks)




Items worth noting:

Riftmaker 81.4dps 1.8 Dagger TP:0
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29182 (Keepers of Time Exaulted)
* proc does not stack with Thunderclap

The Night Blade 81.4dps 1.8 Dagger TP:0
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=31331 (BOE epic)
* awesome proc was nerfed to useless



Weapon enchants

Crusader was the default tanking enchant in the lvl 60 days, but there really isn't a dominant one at lvl 70. Mongoose is probably the current favorite, it procs often and its proc increases both aggro and avoidance. Battlemaster doesn't proc enough and the healing it does in insignificant in both generating aggro and healing your party. Since tanks favor fast weapons, Major Striking adds 5 dps to a 1.4 speed weapon and that is significant.


Formula: Enchant Weapon - Greater Agility (+20AGI) TP:1221
http://thottbot.com/i33165

Formula: Enchant Weapon - Agility (+15AGI) TP:913
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=19445

Formula: Enchant Weapon - Mongoose 120AGI when proc'd TP:7818
http://www.wowhead.com/?spell=27984

Formula: Enchant Weapon - Potency (+20STR) TP:27
http://www.wowhead.com/?spell=27972

Formula: Enchant Weapon - Battlemaster (healing proc) TP:0
http://www.wowhead.com/?spell=28004

Formula: Enchant Weapon - Major Striking (+7 dmg) TP:0 * new in 2.1*
http://www.wowhead.com/?spell=27967
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------



Shields

Entry-level raiding: If you have a dungeon blue shield, spending your arena points on the gladiator shield gives you a 6-8k tank point upgrade and 6-8k is probably more stats than you get from both of your rings. Getting an epic shield is probably one of the biggest upgrades you can do, and if you get the Merciless shield, you won't be trading it out for months.

Tier 5 raiding: Resilience gives 0 points, but it still reduces your defense cap to let you put more aggro or resistance gear on. If you have the Gladiator Shield Wall, your defense cap is 472 instead of 490 to be uncrittable (471 for Merciless), and that is a nice bonus when trying to stack resistance gear for Hydross and still trying to be uncritable.

Tier 6 raiding: The upgrade path is pretty linear, Illidan has the best one to help you farm him for the rest of the guild.


Patch 2.3: The new Shield Wall has an 1875 personal rating required to buy it. I guess I can't get it by loosing 10 matches anymore. The Bulwark is a nice upgrade over Gruul's shield / Merciless shield and has 46 more +Block to make up for the aggro loss in hit.




1. Bulwark of Azzinoth 60STA TP:37900 *top stamina*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32375 (Illidan Stormrage - Black Temple)

2. Kaz'rogal's Hardened Heart 43STA+ +1.3%hit TP:34815 base
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30889 (Kaz'rogal - Hyjal)
* 1 gem slot

3. Vengeful Gladiator's Shield Wall TP:34071
http://www.wowhead.com/?item=33755 Arena

4. Bulwark of the Amani Empire 42STA+ TP:33176(32527 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33326 (Zul'Aman - Jan'alai)
* 1 gem slot

5. Merciless Gladiator's Shield Wall 48STA TP:31702
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32045 (1875 Arena points)

6. Aldori Legacy Defender 39STA+ TP:31374(30624 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28825 (Gruul)
* 1 gem slot

7. Shield of Impenetrable Darkness 33STA TP:29562
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28606 (Karazhan - Nightbane)

8. Gladiator's Shield Wall 45STA TP:29046
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28358 (1875 Arena points)

9. Azure-Shield of Coldarra 31STA TP:28502
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29266 (33 Heroic badges)

10. Crest of the Sha'tar 19STA+ TP:27509(25955 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29176 (Sha'tar Exaulted)
* 2 gem slots

11. The Fel Barrier 30STA TP:25793
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32082 (Heroic Mana Tombs - Shaffar)

12. Ogri'la Aegis 18STA+ TP:24979(23681 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32652 (Ogri'la Revered)
* 2 gem slots

13. Aegis of the Sunbird 27STA TP:24108
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28316 (Botanica - High Botanist Freywinn)

14. Platinum Shield of the Valorous 33STA TP:23550
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27887 (Shadow Labs - Ambassador Hellmaw)

15. Netherwing Protector's Shield 22STA TP:23344
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=31490 (Shadowmoon quest)

16. The Face of Death 21STA TP:22968 *lvl 60 epic*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=23043 (Naxx - Sapphiron)

17. Grand Marshal's Barricade 36STA TP:22441
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28939 (22500 Honor, 20 Eye Marks)

18. Blood Knight Defender 26STA TP:22040
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27449 (Heroic Ramparts - Watchkeeper Gargolmar)

19. Shield of the Void 24STA TP:21076
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28166 (Mana Tombs - Pandemonius)





Shield Enchants

Major Stamina is the only way to go for the shield you use for progression raiding

Formula: Enchant Shield - Major Stamina 18STA TP:1028
http://www.wowhead.com/?spell=34009

Formula: Enchant Shield - Tough Shield 18 +Block TP:196
http://www.wowhead.com/?spell=27944

Formula: Enchant Shield - Lesser Block 10 block rating TP:109
http://www.wowhead.com/?spell=13689

Formula: Enchant Shield - Lesser Protection 30 armor TP:110
http://www.wowhead.com/?spell=13464

Don't you think you should wait till they finish buffing all the lvl70 epics for the patch? I'd hate to see you do all this work twice.

Ranged Weapons

Ranged weapons don't have a ton of tanking stats. A better use for this slot is to put some +hit from the aggro weapon list.

Entry level raiding: Finding a Green lvl 70 weapon of the Monkey on the AH is still the easiest way to get some tanking stats here until you have the mats to get the engineering weapon crafted.

Tier 5 raiding: Stick with the engineering weapon, it will last you a while.

Tier 6 raiding: Rifle of the Stoic Guardian will go to a tank and is a respectable upgrade, but Gyro-balanced Khorium Destroyer still has top stamina, 41 with a Black Temple gem and you shouldn't get rid of it.



1. Rifle of the Stoic Guardian 31STA TP:3491
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32325 (Teron Gorefiend - Black Temple)

2. Legionkiller 30STA TP:2988
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32253 (Supremus - Black Temple)

3. Barrel-Blade Longrifle 0STA+ TP:2240(942 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30724 (Doomwalker)
* 2 gem slots

4. Gyro-balanced Khorium Destroyer 26STA+ TP:2209(1560 base) *top stamina*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32756 (crafted)
* 1 gem slots

5. The Boomstick 21STA TP:2159
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32780 (Heroic Sethekk Halls - Anzu)

6. Spinesever 12STA +1.1%hit TP:1709
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=34622 (BOE Drop)

7. Big-Boar Battle Rifle of the Monkey (+11 Agility, +18 Stamina) TP:1676
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=25281
* also Rampant Crossbow & Windspear Longbow have equal stats

8. Crystalline Crossbow 16STA +0.7%hit TP:1627
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32645 (Ogri'la Exaulted)

9. Bristleblitz Striker 28STA TP:1614
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30906 (Archimonde - Hyjal)

10. Big-Boar Battle Rifle of the Champion (+9 Strength, +14 Stamina, +9 Defense Rating) TP:1608
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=25281

11. Big-Boar Battle Rifle of Stamina (+27 Stamina) TP:1560
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=25281

12. Dragonbreath hand cannon 7STA TP:1258 *lvl 60 epic*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=19368 (BWL - Ebonrock)

13. Mandokir's Sting 8STA TP:1133 *lvl 60 epic*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=20038 (ZG - Bloodlord)

14. Arcanite Steam-Pistol 0STA +1.1%hit TP:1120
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29949 (Eye - Al'ar)

15. Starbolt Longbow 19STA TP:1076
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27817 (Heroic Mana Tombs - Pandemonius)

16. Mark V's Throwing Star 10STA TP:1004
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30227 (Nagrand quest)

17. Melmorta's Twilight Longbow 15STA TP:861
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27987 (Black Morass - Chrono Lord Deja)

18. Nethershrike 15STA TP:861
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28258 (Mechanar - Nethermancer Sepethrea)

19. Consortium blaster 15STA TP:861
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29115 (Netherstorm Revered)

20. Outrider's bow TP:827
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=19558 (7500 Honor, 30 warsong marks)

21. Recoilless Rocket Ripper X-54 13STA TP:753
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27794 (Steamvault - Mekgineer Steamrigger)

22. Ethereal Warp-Bow 13STA TP:753
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=25953 (Mana Tombs - Nexus-Prince Shaffar)







Aggro

Steelhawk has some nice stats and it should be easily attainable after the hunters get their epic weapons. Go for +hit. The new BOE epic drop is an ideal aggro + tanking balance weapon. It has the highest tankpoints of the aggro weapons, the most +hit and lots of other good aggro stats.


Spinesever 12STA +1.1%hit TP:1709
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=34622 (BOE Drop)

Crystalline Crossbow 16STA +0.7%hit TP:1627
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32645 (Ogri'la Exaulted)

Arcanite Steam-Pistol 0STA +1.1%hit TP:1120
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29949 (Eye - Al'ar)

Adamantine Repeater 0STA +0.6%hit TP:882
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27507 (Heroic Blood Furnace - Keli'dan the Breaker)

Ornate Khorium Rifle 0STA +0.8%hit TP:823
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=23748 (crafted)

Veteran's Musket 0STA +0.7%hit TP:704
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29151 (Honor Hold - Exaulted) or horde equivalent

Serpentshrine Shuriken 12STA +0.7%hit TP:699
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30025 (SSC - trash)

Skyfire Hawk-Bow TP:0 +0.9%hit
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27526 (Shattered Halls - Warbringer O'mrogg)

Steelhawk Crossbow 0STA +1.0%hit TP:0
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28504 (Karazhan - Attumen)

Bracers


Entry-level raiding: Stick a +hit gem on the Attumen bracers for the set bonus and you have good all purpose tank/aggro bracers or stam for the best possible for tanking until the Eye. Craft the Green Fortress bracers if you have the cash, they are excellent and will hold you over until Attument drops his bracers.

Tier 5 raiding: The Void Reaver bracers are a huge upgrade over Attunmen's bracers, tons of extra avoidance.

Tier 6 raiding: Eternium Shell are the ultimate bracers. Top effective health and loads of avoidance. If only they had Block value.

Patch 2.3: Bracers of the Ancient Phalanx are an easy to obtain item that give 5.6 Expertise points for massive aggro and mob parry reduction. A must have for even the T6 tanks.




1. Eternium Shell Bracers 52STA TP:9896 *top stamina*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32232 (High Warlord Naj'entus - Black Temple)

2. Wristgaurds of Determination 37STA TP:8275
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32515 (Eye - Void Reaver)

3. The Seeker's Wristguards 43STA TP:7044
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32279 (Shade of Akama - Black Temple)
* pally stats

4. Vambraces of Courage 33STA+ TP:7035(6386 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28502 (Karazhan - Attumen)
* 1 gem slot

5. Bracers of the Ancient Phalanx 45STA 22Expertise TP:6791
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33516 (35 Badges)

6. Bracers of the Green Fortress 39STA TP:6425
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=23538 (crafted)

7. Amber Bands of the Aggressor 25STA TP:5855
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29463 (Heroic Steamvault - Warlord Kalithresh)

8. Vambraces of Daring 26STA TP:4861
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27459 (Heroic Ramparts - Vazruden's chest)

9. Veteran's Plate Bracers 30STA+ TP:4678(4029 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32818 (11794 Honor, 20 WSG)
* 1 gem slot

10. Swiftsteel Bracers 32STA TP:4438
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32568 (crafted - BOE Black Temple)
* 27 haste rating

11. Sha'tari Wrought Armguards 18STA+ TP:4325(3676 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28167 (Shadow Labs quest)
* 1 gem slot

12. Junior Technician 3rd Grade Bracers 24STA +0.7%hit TP:4284
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30225 (Netherstorm quest)

13. Furious Shackles 28STA+ TP:4226 base
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30861 (Rage Winterchill - Hyjal)
* 1 gem slot

14. Eternium Rage-Shackles TP:4195
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33513 (35 Badges)

15. Bands of Syth 18STA TP:3790
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27918 (Heroic Sethekk Halls - Darkweaver Syth)

16. Dreadnaught bracers 28STA TP:3773 *best lvl 60 epic*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=22423 (Naxx - 3 bosses)











Bracer Enchants

12 Defense rating vs 12 Stamina. My baseline gear is to a point where avoidance gains alot of tankpoints and stamina has diminishing returns based off statistical simulations, but the simulations do not represent what is easiest to tank & heal through. For this enchant, I personally would choose stamina.

1. Formula: Enchant Bracer - Major Defense (12 Def) TP:995
http://www.wowhead.com/?spell=27906

2. Formula: Enchant Bracer - Fortitude (12STA) TP:649
http://www.wowhead.com/?spell=27914

Belt

Entry-level raiding: Moroes holds the best belt followed by the one from heroic slave pens. An easy pick up is the Sha'tari Vindicator belt from the Arcatraz quest chain, otherwise find a belt with 2 gem slots and load up on stamina to make an all purpose belt.

Tier 5 raiding: Girdle of the Invulnerable is a massive upgrade for a belt. More mitigation that Crimson Girdle and it has 2% more avoidance. The crafted pally tank belt is very respectable and if your blacksmith gets it, have it crafted it's BOE.

Tier 6 raiding: Again Black temple has an ideal item with the Girdle of Stability. Top effective health, shield block and a ton of avoidance. Perfect tanking belt.

Patch 2.3: Iron-tusk is a heavy avoidance belt. Its an upgrade over the Kara belt, but the SSC pally belt has some more attractive stats.




1. Girdle of Stability 56STA+ TP:12610(11312 base) *top stamina*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32333 (Gurtogg Bloodboil - Black Temple)
* 2 gem slots

2. Girdle of Mighty Resolve 56STA+ TP:11304(10006 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32342 (Gurtogg Bloodboil - Black Temple)
* 2 gem slots, pally stats

3. Girdle of the Invulnerable 37STA+ TP:11559(10261 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30096 (SSC - Leotheras the Blind)
* 2 gem slots

4. Iron-tusk Girdle 45STA+ TP:11040(9742 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33279 (60 badges)
* 2 gems slots

5. Belt of the Guardian 48STA+ TP:9492(8194 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30034 (crafted - BOP Blacksmith SSC)
* 2 gems, pally stats

6. Crimson Girdle of the Indomitable 36STA+ TP:7990(6692 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28566 (Karazhan - Moroes)
* 2 gem slots

7. Lion's Heart Girdle 31 STA TP:7239
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29238 (Heroic Ramparts - Vazruden's chest)

8. Girdle of the Immovable 33STA TP:6632(5334 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27672 (Heroic Slave Pens - Quagmirran)
* 2 gem slots

9. Sha'tari Vindicator's Waistguard 33STA TP:6566
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=31460 (Netherstorm quest)

10. Royal Qiraji Belt 22STA TP:6069 *best lvl 60 epic*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=21598 (AQ40 - Twin Emps)

11. Warlord's Iron-Girdle of the Monkey (620 Armor +27 Agility, +42 Stamina) TP:5847
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=25022

12. Veteran's Plate Belt 45STA TP:5686
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32805 (17850 Honor, 40 AB)

13. Red Belt of Battle 21STA+ +0.9%hit TP:5511(4213 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30032 (crafted - BOP Blacksmith SSC)
* 2 gems

14. Girdle of the Lost Vindicator 39STA TP:5369
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30380 (Netherstorm quest)

15. Belt of Seething Fury 37STA TP:5356
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30915 (Kaz'rogal - Hyjal)
* 38 haste rating

16. Fearless Girdle 25STA+ TP:5259(3961 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=25922 (Zangarmarsh quest)
* 2 gem slots

17. Dreadnaught Waistguard 26STA TP:5114 *lvl 60 epic*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=22422 (Naxx - 3 bosses)
* set bonuses

18. Chain of Unleashed Rage 37STA+ TP:5027
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33331 (60 badges)
* 2 gem slots

19. Deathforge Girdle 25STA TP:4854(3556 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27985 (Sethekk Halls - Talon King Ikiss)
* 2 gem slots

20. Borak's Belt of Bravery 24STA TP:4842
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30962 (Shadowmoon quest)

21. Girdle of the Mentor 21STA +0.6%hit TP:4288 *lvl 60 epic*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=23219 (Naxx - Instructor Razuvious)

Gauntlets

Entry-level raiding: If you are just starting to raid, Felsteel is the way to go. Get the Tank gloves off Maiden, then take the T4 DPS gloves for your aggro set. Or get the T4 tank gloves and put 2 +hit gems in the Maiden Gloves to make them your aggro gloves (remember +Block means bigger shield slams).

Tier 5 raiding: Mathematically T5 hands are not that great over T4, but you are gaining effective health and +Block. The Royal Gauntlets are unbeatable with that massive avoidance.

Tier 6 raiding: I would take the Royal Gauntlets over T6, top stamina and great avoidance. Gauntlets of Enforcement are ideal aggro gauntlets without sacrificing any tanking stats. Definately need +2% threat on these.

Patch 2.3: Both gauntlets from the patch have a respectable amount of tank aggro stats. I wish they wouldn't cost 60 badges though, that seems a bit too much.




1. Royal Gauntlets of Silvermoon 57STA+ TP:12589(11291) base *top stamina*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29998 (Eye - Kael'thas Sunstrider)
* 2 gem slots

2. Onslaught Handguards 50STA+ TP:12451(11802 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30970 (Azgalor - Hyjal)
* 1 gem slot

3. Gauntlets of Enforcement 70STA TP:11296
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32280 (Teron Gorefiend - Black Temple)
* 21 weapon skill rating

4. Destroyer Handguards T5 tank 44STA TP:10545
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30114 (SSC - Leotheras the Blind)
* set bonuses

5. Warbringer Handguards (T4 tank gloves) 38STA TP:10189
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29017 (Karazhan - Curator)
* set bonuses

6. Topaz-studded Battlegrips 49STA+ TP:9447(8149 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30741 (Doom Lord Kazzak)
* 2 gem slots

7. Bonefist Gauntlets 51STA+ +1.3%hit TP:9323(8025 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33517 (60 badges)
* 2 gem slots

8. Iron Gauntlets of the Maiden 39STA+ TP:9026(7728 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28518 (Karazhan - Maiden)
* 2 gem slots

9. Onslaught Gauntlets 49STA+ TP:8831(8182 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30969 (Azgalor - Hyjal)
* 1 gem slot, ignore 91 armor

10. Gauntlets of Dissension 36STA TP:8014
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32072 (Heroic Botanica - Warp Splinter)

11. Felsteel Gloves 27STA+ TP:7886(6588 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=23517 (crafted)
* 2 gem slots, set bonus for blacksmith

12. Gauntlets of the Chosen 30STA TP:7643
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29134 (Scryer Revered)

13. Pillager's Gauntlets 45STA +1.1%hit TP:6093
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32608 (Black Temple trash)
* 38 haste rating

14. Gauntlets of the Bold 31STA+ TP:7360(6062 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27475 (Steamvault - Warlord Kalithresh)
* 2 gem slots, set bonuses

15. Gauntlets of the Iron Tower 30STA+ TP:7281(5983 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=23532 (crafted)
* 2 gem slots

16. Grips of Silent Justice 37STA+ +1.0%Hit TP:6996(5698 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32278 (Shade of Akama - Black Temple)
* 2 gems slots, ignore 175 armor

17. Thatia's Self-Correcting Gauntlets (boe) 35STA TP:6942
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28390 (Arcatraz - Dalliah the Doomsayer)
* BOE boss drop, a bug, so you can take the easy path and buy it in the AH

18. Vengeful Gladiator's Plate Gauntlets 52STA TP:6640
http://www.wowhead.com/?item=33729 Arena
* set bonuses, -3 rage on hamstring

19. Furious Deathgrips 37STA+ +1.6%hit TP:6638(5340 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33512 (60 badges)
* 2 gem slots

20. Warbringer Gauntlets (T4 DPS gloves) 33STA +1.1%hit TP:6219
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29020 (Karazhan - Curator)
* set bonuses

21. Merciless Gladiator's Plate Gauntlets 46STA TP:6014
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30487
* set bonuses, -3 rage on hamstring

22. Destroyer Gauntlets T5 dps 46STA TP:5961
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30119 (SSC - Leotheras the Blind)
* set bonuses

23. Dauntless Handguards 36STA TP:5690
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=25788 (Alliance Shattered Halls quest)

24. Dreadnaught Gauntlets (T3 gloves) 27STA TP:5621 *best lvl 60 epic*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=22421 (Naxx - Maexxna)
* set bonuses

25. Gladiator's Plate Gauntlets 42STA TP:5471
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=24549 (1125 Arena points)
* set bonuses, -2 rage on hamstring

26. Grand Marshal's Plate Gauntlets 30STA TP:4038
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28700 (14850 Honor, 20 AV Marks)
* set bonuses, -2 rage on hamstring





Glove Enchants

1. Formula: Enchant Gloves - Superior Agility (15 AGI) TP:913
http://www.wowhead.com/?spell=25080

2. Glove Reinforcements (240 armor) TP: 878
http://www.wowhead.com/?spell=44770

3. Vindicator's Armor Kit (8 def) TP: 594
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=25651

4. Knothide Armor Kit (8 STA) TP:433
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=25650
* baseline

5. Formula: Enchant Gloves - Greater Agility (7 AGI) TP:424
http://www.wowhead.com/?spell=20012




Honorable Mention: +2% threat is a great enchant that offers 0 tank points. Since it is still percent-based, it scales with gear. Even though it gives 0 tank points, 2% threat is a big deal since it is a threat multiplier.

Shoulders

Enrty-level raiding: Get your guild started on 25 mans and down High King asap. T4 tank shoulders are the best you can get by a large margin.

Tier 5 raiding: After your guild can down Gruul by growth 12, start working Loot Reaver for your first taste of Tier 5. You will use these shoulders for your Hydross set, and the extra defense helps. They also add some nice +Block.

Tier 6 raiding: It sucks that you have to give up +Block on your 2 upgrade options. Both shoulders have tons of avoidance and I would prefer Onslaught for the parry and extra stam.

Patch 2.3: Loot Reaver makes the tanking shoulders from here unnecessary. Tier 5 has better stats across the board.




1. Pauldrons of Abyssal Fury 72STA TP:13072
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32250 (Supremus - Black Temple)

2. Onslaught Shoulderguards 53STA+ TP:12585(11287 base) *top stamina*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30980 (Mother Shahraz - Black Temple)
* 2 gem slots

3. Destroyer Shoulderguards T5 Tank 44STA+ TP:11900(10602 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30117 (Eye - Void Reaver)
* 2 gem slots

4. Warbringer Shoulderguards (T4 tank shoulders) 38STA+ TP:10939(9641 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29016 (Gruuls Lair - High King)
* set bonuses, 2 gem slots

5. Pauldrons of Stone Resolve 43STA+ TP:10261(8963 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33481 (Zul'Aman - timed event)
* 2 blue gem slots (+3 BlockRating bonus)

6. Mantle of Abrahmis 43STA+ TP:8761(7463 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28743 (Karazhan - Netherspite)
* 2 gem slots

7. Vengeful Gladiator's Plate Shoulders 57STA+ TP:8754(7456 base)
http://www.wowhead.com/?item=33732 Arena
* set bonuses, 2 gem slots

8. Onslaught Shoulderblades 34STA+ TP:8338
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30979
* 2 gem slots, ignore 91 armor

9. Spaulders of Dementia 34STA TP:8150
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32073 (Heroic Sethekk Halls - Talon King Ikiss)

10. Merciless Gladiator's Plate Shoulders 51STA+ TP:8093(6795 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30490
* 2 gem slots

11. Warbringer Shoulderplates (T4 DPS shoulders) 33STA+ +0.6%hit TP:7852(6554 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29023 (Gruuls Lair - High King)
* set bonuses, 2 gem slots

12. Fanblade Pauldrons 22STA+ TP:7617(6319 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27847 (Heroic Crypts - Shirrak the Dead Watcher
* 2 gem slots

13. Gladiator's Plate Shoulders 45STA+ TP:7399(6101 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=24546 (1500 Arena points)
* set bonuses, 2 slots

14. Destroyer Shoulderblades T5 DPS 38STA+ TP:7374(6076 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30122 (Eye - Void Reaver)
* 2 gem slots

15. Swiftsteel Shoulders 29STA +1.2%hit TP:5864
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32570 (crafted - BOP Blacksmith Black Temple)
* 35 haste rating

16. Shoulderguards of the Bold 25STA+ TP:6565(5267 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27803 (Shadow Labs - Murmur)
* set bonuses, 2 slots

17. Pauldrons of the Wardancer 21STA+ TP:6319(5021 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30053 (SSC - Hydross)
* 2 gems

18. Warchief's Mantle 27STA+ TP:6245(4947 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29316
* 2 slots

19. Blood-stained Pauldrons 34STA +1.5%hit TP:6116
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30866 (Rage Winterchill - Hyjal)

20. Grand Marshal's Plate Shoulders 36STA+ TP:6057(4759 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28703 (14850 Honor, 20 AB Marks)
* set bonuses, 2 slots

21. Pauldrons of Brute Force 22STA+ TP:6054(4756 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=24463 (Underbog - The Black Stalker)
* 2 slots

22. Dreadnaught Pauldrons (T3 shoulders) 29STA +0.6%hit TP:5790 *best lvl 60 epic*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=22419
* set bonuses

23. Pauldrons of Gruesome Fate 33STA +1.5%hit TP:5674
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33514 (60 Badges)

24. Nexus-Guard's Pauldrons 27STA TP:5650
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30291 (Netherstorm quest)

25. Doomplate Shoulderguards 22STA+ TP:5256(3958 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27771 (Heroic Underbog - The Black Stalker)
* set bonuses, 2 slots

26. Skybreaker's Pauldrons 31STA TP:5243
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30964 (Shadowmoon quest)





Shoulder Enchants

The difference between aldor and scryer is negligible. Scryer might be more useful as it helps to overcome the 490 defense cap for Hydross.

1. Greater Inscription of Warding (15 dodge, 10 def) TP:2114
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28889 (aldor)

2. Greater Inscription of the Knight (15 def, 10 dodge) TP:2080
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28911 (scryer)

3. Inscription of Warding (15 dodge) TP:1296
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28882 (aldor)

4. Inscription of the Knight (13 def) TP:995
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28908 (scryer)

Feet

Enrty-level raiding: Boots 7 and 9 are easy to obtain quest reward blues. Keep the Fleash Beast's as your tank boots and gem the Sha'tari wrought as your aggro boots until you pull something out of Kara or a Heroic. The trash Kara boots are the top mitigation until the eye, but 17 strength and 2 gem slots make Battlescar overall more attractive. Put 2 blue gems in there are you got 49STA boots.

Tier 5 raiding: Shocking that the upgrade over the Kara gear doesn't come until deep into the Eye and it works out mathmatically as a side-grade, although most warriors love to trade avoidance for stamina. Red Havoc boots are awesome with all that shield block and a nice effective health upgrade, damn Blizzard had to make them Blacksmith only.

Tier 6 raiding: +hit on the boots from Akama, nice! The pally boots are also a respectible upgrade.

Patch 2.3: Jungle stompers FTW! I was always bitter I couldn't wear Red Havoc, and so now I feel better that I can have some Block boots. They were even nice enough to give us a blue socket bonus of +5 Block.




1. Myrmidon's Treads 56STA+ +1.1%hit TP:12850(11552 base) *top stamina*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32268 (Shade of Akama - Black Temple)
* 2 gems slots

2. Tide-stomper's Greaves 56STA+ TP:12124(10826 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32245 (High Warlord Naj'entus - Black Temple)
* 2 gem slots, pally stats

3. Boots of Elusion 34STA TP:9948
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30641 (Karazhan trash)
* baseline

4. Jungle Stompers 43STA+ TP:9938(9289 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33191 (Zul'Aman - Bear Avatar, Nalorakk)
* 1 blue gem slot (5Block bonus)

5. Red Havoc Boots 49STA TP:9927
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30031 (crafted - BOP Blacksmith SSC)

6. Boots of the Resilient 51STA+ TP:9733(8435 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32267 (Eye - High Astromancer Solarian)
* 2 gem slots

7. Sabatons of the Righteous Defender 45STA+ TP:9599(8301 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33523 (60 badges)
* pally stats, 2 gem slots

8. Battlescar Boots 28STA+ TP:9201(7903 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28747 (Karazhan - Chess Event)
* 2 gem slots

9. Boots of the Protector 48STA TP:8379
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30033 (crafted - BOP Blacksmith SSC)
* pally stats

10. Eaglecrest Warboots 33STA TP:7892
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29239 (Heroic Blood Furnace - Keli'dan the Breaker)

11. Dreadboots of the Legion 40STA +1.1%hit TP:7525(6227 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32345 (Reliquary of Souls - Black Temple
* 2 gems slots

12. Ironstriders of Urgency 22STA TP:7202(5904 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28608 (Karazhan - Nightbane)
* 2 gem slots

13. Skullshatter Warboots 37STA TP:7001(5703 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33303 (Zul'Aman - Lynx Avatar, Halazzi)
* 2 gem slots

14. Flesh Beast's Metal Greaves 25STA TP:6943
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29325 (Mana Tombs quest)

15. Boots of the Colossus 27STA+ TP:6798(5500 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27813 (Heroic Mana Tombs - Pandemonius)
* 2 gem slots

16. Veteran's Plate Greaves 45STA TP:6340
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32793 (17850 Honor, 40Eye)

17. Sha'tari Wrought Greaves 22STA TP:6271(4973 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28176 (Shadow Labs quest)
* 2 gem slots

18. Warlord's Sabatons of the Monkey (lvl 70 green 758 Armor +27 Agility, +42 Stamina) TP:6185
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=25023 (green BOE)

19. Dreadnaught sabatons (T3 boots) 34STA TP:6077 *best lvl 60 epic*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=22420 (Naxx - 3 bosses)
* set bonuses














Boot Enchants

The correct choice for effective health enchanting is +12 stamina.

1. Formula: Enchant Boots - Dexterity (12 AGI) TP: 729
http://www.wowhead.com/?spell=27951

2. Formula: Enchant Boots - Fortitude (12 STA) TP: 649
http://www.wowhead.com/?spell=27950
* baseline

3. Vindicator's Armor Kit (8 def) TP: 594
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=25651

4. Rugged Armor Kit (40 armor) TP: 146
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=15564

Chest

Entry-level raiding: The T4 chest and Nightbane chest are pretty similar in mitigation, but the strength and agility on T4 make it superior. The Armorsmith's DPS chest is pretty godly when you consider all the aggro generating stats it has on it. The new Gladiator chest has great stamina and even has some +hit.

Tier 5 raiding: A 2k tankpoints upgrade over T4 and +1.5% to hit, now that is an upgrade!

Tier 6 raiding: Onslaught gives away the +hit, Boooo! But Azgalor has a chest with +2.2%hit

Patch 2.3: Zul'jin has a nice chest for those guilds not able to down Kael. The Pally badge version is a close second if you are not up to that challenge but you have to give up the +hit.





1. Onslaught Chestguard 69STA+ TP:18862(16915 base) *top stamina*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30976 (Illidan Stormrage - Black Temple)

2. Glory of the Defender 75STA +2.2%hit TP:16828
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30896 (Azgalor - Hyjal)

3. Destroyer Chestguard T5 tank 57STA+ +1.5%hit TP:16042(14095 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30113 (Eye - Kael'thas Sunstrider)
* 3 gem slots, set bonuses

4. Chestguard of the Warlord 60STA +1.6%hit TP:15955(14008 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33473 (Zul'Aman - Zul'jin)
* 3 gem slots

5. Chestguard of the Stoic Guardian 60STA+ TP:15158(13211 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33522 (75 Badges)
* pally stats,3 gem slots

6. Warbringer Chestguard (T4 tanking chest) 48STA+ TP:13652(11705 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29012 (Magtheridon)
* set bonuses, 3 gem slots

7. Panzar'Thar Breastplate 51STA+ TP:12768(10821 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28597 (Karazhan - Nightbane)
* 3 slots

8. Onslaught Breastplate 54STA+ +1.0%hit TP:12737(10790 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30975 (Illidan Stormrage - Black Temple)
* 3 gem slots, ignore 126 armor

9. Vengeful Gladiator's Plate Chestpiece 67STA+ +0.8%hit TP:11481(9534 base)
http://www.wowhead.com/?item=33728 Arena
* 3 gem slots, set bonuses

10. Bulwark of Ancient Kings 56STA+ +1.6%hit TP:10926(8979 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28485 (crafted, armorsmithing-only)
* 3 gem slots, special ability

11. Merciless Gladiator's Plate Chestpiece 60STA+ +0.6%hit TP:10707(8760 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30486 (1875 Arena points)
* set bonuses, 3 gem slots

12. Vindicator's Hauberk 39STA TP:10786
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29127 (Aldor Revered)
* baseline

13. Krakken-Heart Breastplate 42STA TP:10301
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30102 (SSC - Lady Vashj)

14. Bulwark of Kings 55STA+ +1.5%hit TP:10082(8135 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28484 (crafted, armorsmithing-only)
* 3 gem slots, special ability

15. Breastplate of the Bold 33STA+ TP:10038(8091 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28205 (Arcatraz - Harbinger Skyriss)
* set bonuses, 3 gem slots

16. Destroyer Breastplate T5 DPS 48STA+ +1.0%hit TP:9933(7986 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30118 (Eye - Kael'thas Sunstrider)
* 3 gem slots, set bonuses

17. Gladiator's Plate Chestpiece 49STA+ +0.6%hit TP:9560(7613 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=24544 (1875 Arena points)
* set bonuses, 3 gem slots

18. Warbringer Breastplate (T4 DPS chest) 39STA+ TP:8940(6993 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29019 (Magtheridon)
* set bonus, 3 gem slots

19. Bloodstained Elven Battlevest 69STA TP:8931
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33215 (Zul'Aman - Akil'zon)

20. Breastplate of Kings 46STA+ +1.3%hit TP:8761(6814 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28483 (crafted, armorsmithing-only)
* 3 gem slots, special ability

21. Warlord's Iron-Breastplate of the Monkey (lvl 70 BOE green 1103 Armor +37 Agility, +56 Stamina) TP:8536
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=25024 (BOE green)

22. Heavy Earthforged Breastplate 36STA+ TP:8434(6487 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30074 (crafted, armorsmithing-only)
* 3 gem slots

23. Dreadnaught breastplate (T3 Chest) 43STA +1.3%hit TP:8396 *best lvl 60 epic*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=22416 (Naxx - 4 Horsemen)
* set bonuses

24. Jade-Skull Breastplate 50STA TP:8376
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28262 (Mechanar - Nethermancer Sepethrea)

25. Heartshatter Breastplate 45STA +1.9%hit TP:8172
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32365 (Mother Shahraz - Black Temple)

26. High Warlord's Plate Chestpiece 46STA+ TP:8115(6168 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28851 (24300 Honor, 30 AB Marks)
* set bonuses, 3 gem slots

27. Breastplate of the Warbringer 45STA +1.9%hit TP:8021
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=25819 (Nagrand quest)

28. Crimsonforge Breastplate 45STA +1.0%hit TP:6139
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27906 (Heroic Ramparts - Omor the Unscarred)






Chest Enchants

1. Formula: Enchant Chest - Exceptional Health (150HP) TP:811
http://www.wowhead.com/?spell=27957
* baseline

2. Formula: Enchant Chest - Exceptional Stats (+6 all stats) TP:716
http://www.wowhead.com/?spell=27960

3. Vindicator's Armor Kit (8 def) TP:594
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=25651

4. Rugged Armor Kit (40 armor) TP:146
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=15564

Head

Entry-level raiding: Felsteel is a great crafted starter helm. Even though felsteel and the Kara opera helm are the same mitigation, Eternium Greathelm is superior for its +26 strength. Stalwart Defender would be an insane helm if they used something other than resilience. 2.1: The new heroic badges helm is respectable, and worth getting if your guild isn't up to downing Prince yet. Since I dropped engineering for jewelcrafting I would like to say "The goggles, they do nothing!", but they are quite good and could possibly protect Radioactive man from the toxic waste. (Simpson's reference for those wondering what I'm smoking)

Tier 5 raiding: T5 will give a big tankpoints bump from whatever you are already wearing.

Tier 6 raiding: The T6 helm is pretty sad. Mathmatically it is equal to the Destroyer helm. I think someone made a mistake with this piece of gear, it doesn't even increase the stamina. The Block value is nice but even Warbringer(T4) has more, and come on, block rating has almost no value! The Faceplate off Illidan is what T6 should have been. Its got massive increases to all important tanking stats, even Block value. Someone report to Blizzard that weaksauce was spilled on the T6 tanking helm and it needs to be cleaned off.

Patch 2.3: Battleworn Tuskguard provides heavy block and stamina, no defense. They are a small TP upgrade over T4, but I don't think I would grind for it. The Vashj helm majorly outclasses it.




1. Faceplate of the Impenetrable 82STA+ TP:17723(16046 base) *top stamina*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32521 (Illidan Stormrage - Black Temple)
* 1 meta, 1 gem slot

2. Destroyer Greathelm T5 tank 48STA+ TP:14578(12901 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30115 (SSC - Lady Vashj)
* 1 meta gem, 1 gem slot

3. Onslaught Greathelm 48STA+ TP:14338(12661 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30974 (Archimonde - Hyjal)
* 1 meta, 1 gem slot

4. Tankatronic Goggles 67STA+ +0.5%hit TP: 13642(11965 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32473
* 1 gem slot, 1 meta slot

5. Faceguard of the Endless Watch 49STA+ TP:13190(11243 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30731 (Doomwalker)
* 3 gem slots

6. Battleworn Tuskguard 60STA+ TP:12944(10997 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33421 (75 badges)
* 3 gem slots

7. Warbringer Greathelm (T4 tank helm) 53STA+ TP:12201(10524 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29011 (Karazhan - Prince)
* set bonuses, 1 gem slot, 1 meta slot

8. Onslaught Battle-Helm 54STA+ TP:11296(9619 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30972 (Archimonde - Hyjal)
* 1 meta, 1 gem slot, ignore 105 armor

9. Faceguard of Determination 36STA+ TP:11212(9535 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32083 (Heroic Badges)
* 1 gem slot, 1 meta slot

10. Eternium Greathelm 48STA+ TP:10411(8464 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28593 (Karazhan - Opera)
* 3 gem slots

11. Helm of the Stalwart Defender 47STA+ TP:10092(8145 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=23535 (crafted)
* 3 gem slots

12. Myrmidon's Headdress 37STA+ TP:9663(7116 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28180 (Steamvault quest)
* 1 gem slot, 1 meta slot

13. Vengeful Gladiator's Plate Helm 61STA+ 0.8%hit TP:9478(7801 base)
http://www.wowhead.com/?item=33730
* 1 gem slot, 1 meta slot

14. Felsteel Helm 27STA+ TP:9393(7716 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=23519 (crafted)
* 3 gem slots, set bonus for blacksmith

15. Merciless Gladiator's Plate Helm 54STA+ +0.6%hit TP:8787(7110 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30488
* 1 gem slot, 1 meta slot

16. Thundering Greathelm 42STA TP:8781
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28775 (Magtheridon)

17. Amani Mask of Death 51STA +2.1%hit TP:8674(6727 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33810 (75 badges)
* 3 gem slots

18. Destroyer Battle-Helm T5 DPS 45STA+ +1.3%hit TP:8212(6535 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30120 (SSC - Lady Vashj)
* 1 meta gem, 1 gem slot

19. Gladiator's Plate Helm 51STA+ TP:8273(6596 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=24545 (1875 Arena points)
* 1 gem slot, 1 meta slot

20. Warhelm of the Bold 23STA+ TP:8188(6511 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28350 (Botanica - Warp Splinter)
* set bonuses, 1 gem slot, 1 meta slot

21. Warbringer Battle-Helm (T4 DPS helm) 45STA +0.6%hit TP:7801(6124 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29021 (Karazhan - Prince)
* set bonuses, 1 gem slot, 1 meta slot

22. Helm of the Illidari Shatterer 39STA+ +2.2%hit TP:7664(5987 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32373 (Illdari Council - Black Temple)
* 1 meta, 1 gem slot

23. Dreadnaught helmet (T3 helm) 45STA TP:7471 *best lvl 60 epic*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=22418 (Naxx - Thaddius)
* set bonuses

24. Greathelm of the Unbreakable 48STA TP:7271
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27520 (Shattered Halls - Grand Warlock Nethekurse)










Helm Enchants

1. Glyph of the Defender (16def, 17dodge) TP:2709
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29186

2. Presence of Might (10STA, 15Block, 10Def) TP:1879
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=19782

3. Arcanum of Protection (12 dodge) TP:1034
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=18331

4. Lesser Arcanum of Voracity (8 AGI) TP:485
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=11647

5. Lesser Arcanum of Tenacity (125 armor) TP:456
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=11643

Legs

Entry-level raiding: Putting 3 stam gems in Timewarden's leggings will get you the top stamina piece for that tier. Felsteel is a great starter item until you have Timewarden's.

Tier 5 raiding: This is another side-grade mathematically, but you're trading avoidance for mitigation.

Tier 6 raiding: The T6 legs are a perfect mix of the best tank stats, plenty of stam, block value, agility and parry. Praetorian's Legguards are also worth picking up for the +hit and the massive 120 stamina possible.

Patch 2.3: The shield block and stamina make Unwavering a great upgrade over Kara/Gruul, t5 still outclasses it with a better mix of more stats. I hate grinding for badges and 75 is going to be a pain.




1. Onslaught Legguards 78STA+ TP:18418(17769 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30978 (Illdari Council - Black Temple)
* 1 gem slot

2. Destroyer Legguards T5 tank 60STA+ TP:14192(13543 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30116 (SSC - Fathom-Lord Karathress)
* 1 gem slot, set bonuses

3. Unwavering Legguards 73STA+ TP:13961(12014 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33515 (75 Badges)
* 3 gem slots

4. Warbringer Legguards (T4 tank legs) 55STA TP:13568
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29015 (Gruul)
* set bonuses

5. Wrynn Dynasty Greaves 48STA+ TP:12478(10531 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28621 (Karazhan - Curator)
* 3 gem slots

6. Praetorian's Legguards 75STA+ +1.1%hit TP:12213(10266 base) *top stamina*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32263 (Shade of Akama - Black Temple)
* 3 gem slots

7. Onslaught Greaves 55STA+ +0.9%hit TP:10810(10161 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30977 (Illdari Council - Black Temple)
* 1 gem slot, ignore 105 armor

8. Timewarden's Leggings 57STA+ TP:10054(8107 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29184 (Keepers of Time Revered)
* 3 gem slots

9. Legguards of the Resolute Defender 42STA TP:9691
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29783 (Netherstorm quest)

10. Greaves of the Bloodwarder 46STA+ TO:8816(6869 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29950 (Eye - High Astromancer Solarian)
* 3 gem slots

11. Vengeful Gladiator's Plate Legguards 70STA 0.8%hit TP:8763
http://www.wowhead.com/?item=33731 Arena

12. Greaves of the Shatterer 37STA+ TP:8710(6763 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27527 (Shattered Halls - Bladefist)
* 3 gem slots

13. Legguards of Endless Rage 61STA +1.2%hit TP:8502
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30903 (Archimonde - Hyjal)

14. Legplates of the Bold 45STA TP:8363
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27977 (Black Morass - Aeonus)

15. Felsteel Leggings 39STA+ TP:10256(8309 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=23518 (crafted)
* 3 gem slots, set bonus for blacksmith

16. Bloodthirster's Wargreaves 43STA +2.4%hit TP:8664(6717 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33501 (75 Badges)
* 3 gem slots

17. Destroyer Greaves T5 dps 57STA+ TP:8297(7648 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30121 (SSC - Fathom-Lord Karathress)
* 1 gem slot, set bonuses

18. Dreadnaught Legplates (T3 legs) 37STA TP:8156 *best lvl 60 epic*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=22417 (Naxx - Loatheb)
* set bonuses

19. Merciless Gladiator's Plate Legguards 63STA +0.9% TP:8057
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30489
* set bonuses

20. Leggings of Divine Retribution 51STA TP:7569
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32341 (Gurtogg Bloodboil - Black Temple)
* ignore 350 armor

21. Mag'hari Warlord's Legplates 64STA TP:7338
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28175 (Horde-only Nagrand quest)

22. Gladiator's Plate Legguards 55STA +0.8%hit TP:7176
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=24547 (1875 Arena points)
* set bonuses

23. Warbringer Greaves (T4 DPS legs) 54STA TP:7048
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29022 (Gruul)
* set bonuses






Leg Enchants

1. Nethercleft Leg Armor (40STA, 12AGI) TP:2965
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29536

2. Clefthide Leg Armor (30STA, 10AGI) TP:2295
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29534

3. Presence of Might (10STA, 15Block, 10Def) TP: 1879
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=19782

Back - Tanking Cloaks

Entry-level raiding: Devilshark is the top for mitigation stats by a respectable margin and has some good +Block on it. Always hold onto the top +Block items in each gear slot to that you can raise Shield Slam damage to crazy levels. Gotta love the crafted Cloak of Eternity for the top Stamina and cheap mats. No reason not to have that one as soon as you hit 70. The Karazhan epic (and any other cloak with tons of armor and stamina) is geared more for feral druids. Let them have it first, they will get more benefit. I put 3 lvl 70 green BOE items here so you can see where they rank and how. "of the Monkey" is equal to "of Stamina", and "of the Champion" is further down the list. Still, no reason to own these when Cloak of Eternity is 36 Stamina and the mats are ridiculously cheap.

Tier 5 raiding: Finally a small upgrade to Devilshark, although I really miss the +Block.

Tier 6 raiding: Patch 2.2 added a perfect cloak, lots of stamina and lots of +hit. It also added a respectable crafted aggro cloak

Patch 2.3: Do you think that the new badge cloak will finally placate the Devilshark debate? Pepe's Shroud is still the all around best cloak, but the new badge cloak should hold you until Hyjal.





1. Slikk's Cloak of Placation 37STA TP:6445
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33593 (35 Badges)

2. Phoenix-Wing Cloak 37STA TP:6348
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29925 (Eye - Al'ar)

3. Devilshark Cape 22STA TP:5391
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27804 (SteamVault - Warlord Kalithresh)

4. Pepe's Shroud of Pacification 45STA +1.5%hit TP:5247 *top stamina*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=34010 (Hyjal trash)

5. Gilded Thorium Cloak 30STA TP:4816
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28660 (Karazhan - Illhoof)

6. Burnoose of Shifting Ages 15STA TP:4582
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27988 (Black Morass - Chrono Lord Deja)

7. Cloak of Eternity 36STA TP:3891
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=24253 (crafted)

8. Farstrider Defender's Cloak 30STA TP:3774
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29385 (25 heroic badges)

9. Thalassian Wildercloak 28STA TP:3485
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29994 (Eye - Kael'thas Sunstrider)

10. Cloak of Enduring Swiftness 13STA TP:3471
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=24454 (Underbog - Swamplord Musel'ek)

11. Thoriumweave Cloak 35STA TP:3257
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28256 (Mechanar - Mechano-Lord Capacitus)

12. Bogstrok Scale Cloak 22STA TP:3226
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=24379 (Slave Pens - Rokmar the Crackler)

13. Cryptfiend Silk Cloak 14STA +0.6hit TP:3202 *best lvl 60 epic*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=22938 (Naxx - Anub'Rekhan)

14. Amber Cape of the Monkey (lvl 70 BOE green 74 armor, +21 Agility, +32 Stamina) TP:3194
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=25043 (BOE green)

15. Cloak of the Valiant Defender 21STA TP:3145
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29777 (Netherstorm quest)

16. Amber Cape of Stamina (lvl 70 BOE green 74 Armor, +48 Stamina) TP:2822
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=25043 (BOE green)

17. Resolute Cape 30STA TP:2802
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=24258 (crafted)

18. Ironscale War Cloak 26STA TP:2782
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27550 (Heroic Slave Pens - Rokmar the Crackler)

19. Amber Cape of the Champion (lvl 70 BOE green 74 armor, +16 Strength, +25 Stamina, +16 Defense Rating) TP:2717
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=25043 (BOE green)

20. Mithril-Bark Cloak 32STA TP:2013
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28328 (Botanica - Laj)




Back - Aggro Cloaks


Entry-level raiding: The Back slot is not a big one for tanking stats, so its easy to trade off an insignificant amount of mitigation for some significant aggro generating stats. Try for a cloak that has a respectable amount of stamina that adds some +hit. If I could pick a Kara favorite, it would be Drape of the Dark Reavers. 1% to hit and a full load of agility while still maintaining respectable mitigation numbers, but good luck getting it from the hunters and rogues. Royal Cloak of Arathi Kings is a warrior cloak, and probably more attainable for a prot tank. Aggro items are unranked, but the tank points are listed so you can see how much mitigation you are giving up.


Thalassian Wildercloak 28STA TP:3485
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29994 (Eye - Kael'thas Sunstrider)


Razor-Scale Battlecloak 22STA TP:2903
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30098 (SSC - Morogrim Tidewalker)


D!@%# of the Dark Reavers 21STA +1.1%hit TP:2820
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28672 (Karazhan - Shade of Aran)


Blood Knight War Cloak 22STA TP:2802
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29382 (25 heroic badges)


Cloak of Darkness 25STA+ TP:2380(1731 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33122 (crafted)


Capacitus' Cloak of Calibration 19STA TP:2355
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28249 (Mechanar - Cache of the Legion)


Dory's Embrace 34STA TP:2242
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33484 (60 Badges or Zul'Aman timed loot)


Royal Cloak of Arathi Kings 31STA +1.0%hit TP:2077
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28529 (Karazhan - Moroes)


Auchenai Death Shroud 15STA +1.1%hit TP:1928
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27878 (Heroic Auchenai Crypts - Avatar of the Martyred)


Shadowmoon Destroyer's D!@%# 24STA +1.1%hit TP:1689
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32323 (Teron Gorefiend - Black Temple)


Netherfury Cape 19STA TP:1318
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28371 (Botanica Warp Splinter)


Cloak of the Inciter 15STA +1.0%hit TP:1082
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27892 (Shadow Labs - Blackheart the Inciter)





Cloak Enchants

1. Formula: Enchant Cloak - Dodge (12 dodge) TP:1034
http://www.wowhead.com/?spell=25086

2. Formula: Enchant Cloak - Greater Agility (12 AGI) TP:729
http://www.wowhead.com/?spell=34004

3. Formula: Enchant Cloak - Major Armor (120 Armor) TP:472
http://www.wowhead.com/?spell=27961

Neck

Entry-level raiding: The neck off Maiden has the top mitigation stats for starting raiding. Again, this is a weaker slot for tank gear, so it would be a good place to stack some aggro stats.

Tier 5 raiding: The quest reward for killing Kael'thas has awesome stats, of course its a level 138 item and should have awesome stats. Frayed Tether has a nice balance of tank stats and +hit.

Tier 6 raiding: Titans is better than Darkener's Grasp due to the hit rating, but both are far beyond all other necks.

Patch 2.3: Brooch of Deftness is not big on tank stats aside from the 48STA, but the 1.25% mob parry reduction is an important tank stat that is not quite measurable by tankpoints. This would be a nice piece to wear in all situations.


1. The Darkener's Grasp 40STA TP:6367
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30007 (Eye - Kael'thas Sunstrider quest reward)

2. Pendant of Titans 43STA +1.3%hit TP:6147
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32362 (Reliquary of Souls - Black Temple)

3. Barbed Choker of Discipline 39STA TP:5189
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28516 (Karazhan - Maiden)

4. Necklace of the Juggernaut 33STA TP:4618
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29386 (25 Heroic Badges)

5. Strength of the Untamed 27STA TP:4428
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29173 (Cenarion Expedition Revered)

6. Frayed Tether of the Drowned 45STA +1.1%hit TP:4328
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30099 (SSC - Fathom-Lord Karathress)

7. Maladaar's Blessed Chaplet 30STA TP:4140
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27871 (Heroic Auchenai Crypts - Exarch Maladaar)

8. Thalodien's Charm 37STA TP:3656
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=58671 (Netherstorm quest Scryer

9. Natasha's Battle Chain 37STA TP:3656
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=31696 (Blade's Edge quest)

10. Necklace of the Deep 20STA+ TP:3574(2276 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32508 (crafted)
* 2 gem slots

11. Mark of the Ravenguard 40STA TP:3491
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29336 (Sethekk Halls quest)

12. Mark of C'Thun 24STA TP:3382 *best lvl 60 epic*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=22732 (AQ40 - C'Thun)

13. Enchanted Thorium Torque 27STA +1.0%hit TP:3142
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28321 (Botanica - High Botanist Freywinn)

14. Tanzanite Pendant of the Monkey (+21 Agility, +32 Stamina) TP:2964
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=25071

15. Maimfist's Choker 27STA TP:2775
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=25809 (Horde Shattered Halls quest)

16. Medallion of the Valiant Guardian 27STA TP:2775
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=25803 (Alliance Shattered Halls quest)

17. Blessed Medallion of Karabor 49STA TP:2657
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32757 (Black Temple attunement quest reward)

18. Brooch of Deftness 48STA +1.4%hit 21Expertise TP:2605 *top stamina*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33296 (35 badges)

19. Steam-Hinge Chain of Valor 26STA TP:2573
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27792 (Steamvault - Mekgineer Steamrigger)

20. Choker of Serrated Blades 37STA TP:2032
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32591 (Black Temple trash)
* ignore 175 armor

21. Thick Felsteel Necklace 36STA TP:1980
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=24106 (crafted)




Aggro Necks

Entry-level raiding: I only picked necks close to 20 in stamina. The pvp neck is interesting as it has a gem slot, but if I could have any from heroics/Kara, I'd take the neck off Heroic Rokmar or Worgen Claw.

Tier 5 raiding: Frayed Tether is an excellent all purpose neck.

Tier 6 raiding: Again the titans neck is an excellent all purpose neck.

Patch 2.3: Brooch of Deftness is a must have for aggro. There is no other neck. Expertise and +hit. In total it will give you 3.9% in landing your Shield Slams without a dodge, parry or miss.




Pendant of Titans 43STA +1.3%hit TP:6147
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32362 (Reliquary of Souls - Black Temple)

Frayed Tether of the Drowned 45STA +1.1%hit TP:4328
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30099 (SSC - Fathom-Lord Karathress)

Necklace of the Deep 20STA+ TP:3574(2276 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32508 (crafted)
* 2 gem slots

Saberclaw Talisman 33STA TP:3017
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28674 (Karazhan - Shade of Aran)

Blessed Medallion of Karabor 49STA TP:2657
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32757 (Black Temple attunement quest reward)

Brooch of Deftness 48STA +1.4%hit 21Expertise TP:2605 *top stamina*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33296 (35 badges)

Mithril Chain of Heroism 19STA TP:2490
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28745 (Karazhan - Chess Event)

Veteran's Pendant of Triumph 31STA+ TP:2368(1719 base)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28244 (22500 Honor, 10 Eye Marks)
* 1 gem slot

Worgen Claw Necklace 21STA +1.1%hit TP:2272
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28509 (Karazhan - Attumen)

Soldier's Dog Tags 19STA TP:2135
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27495 (Heroic Blood Furnace - Keli'dan the Breaker)

Choker of Vile Intent 19STA +1.0%hit TP:2114
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29381 (25 Heroic Badges)

Bone Chain Necklace 18STA TP:2057
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27779 (Heroic Underbog - The Black Stalker)

Choker of Serrated Blades 37STA TP:2032
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32591 (Black Temple trash)
* ignore 175 armor

The Savage's Choker 37STA TP:2032
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33297 (Zul'Aman - Lynx Avatar Halazzi)

Pendant of the Perilous 24STA TP:1352
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30022 (SSC - trash)

Skeletal Necklace of Battlerage 21STA +0.8%hit TP:1195
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27551 (Heroic Slave Pens - Rokmar the Crackler)

Rings

Rings are a good slot to switch over to aggro gear. In most situation, you should tank with at least 1 aggro ring on.

Entry level raiding: Pick up any 2 blue rings, then the first Kara ring will replace one as soon as you complete the early quests. Eventually your goal will be the Exaulted Kara ring and the Shermanar Great-Ring as your max tanking set. If Aran doesn't give it up to you, Mag's head is a guaranteed drop.

Tier 5 raiding: Ring of Sundered Souls is one of the best in the game and a huge upgrade over anything you have. Also pick up Seventh Ring of the Tirisfalen, with that high block value it is a good all purpose ring. Once you get replacements, consider trading your Kara ring in for the DPS aggro version with 1.3% hit.

Tier 6 raiding: The Hyjal rep ring is the #1 ring starting at Revered. Band of the Abyssal Lord has 1.3% hit and top stamina, and is a must get for the aggro stat without sacrificing tank stats.

Patch 2.3: Zul'Aman provides various rings as rewards for completing the timed events. There is a blocking ring, a pvp ring and an aggro ring.


1. Band of the Eternal Defender (Tanking Exaulted & Revered) 43STA TP:6378
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29297 (Hyjal rep reward - Exaulted)
* armor proc

2. Ring of Sundered Souls 45STA TP:5933
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30083 (SSC - Morogrim Tidewalker)

3. Band of Eternity (Tanking Honored) 40STA 40Block TP:5875
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29296 (Hyjal rep reward)

4. Band of Eternity (Tanking Friendly) 37STA 38Block TP:5230
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29296 (Hyjal rep reward)

5. Band of the Abyssal Lord 53STA +1.3%hit TP:5054
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32261 (Supremus - Black Temple)

6. Violet Signet of the Great Protector 37STA TP:4983
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29279 (Violent Eye Exaulted)

7. A'dal's Signet of Defense 34STA TP:4728
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28792 (Magtheridon's head quest)

8. Shermanar Great-Ring 36STA TP:4705
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28675 (Karazhan - Shade of Aran)

9. Violet Signet (Tanking Revered) 36STA TP:4657
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29278 (Violet Eye Revered)

10. Ring of Unyielding Force 31STA TP:4497
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29384 (25 Heroic Badges)

11. Seventh Ring of the Tirisfalen 37STA TP:4441
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30028 (Eye - trash drop)

12. Elementium Band of the Sentry 24STA TP:4415
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28407 (Arcatraz - Harbinger Skyriss)

13. Violet Signet (Tanking Honored) 33STA TP:4419
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29277 (Violet Eye Honored)

14. Signet of the Last Defender 45STA TP:4199
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33499 (Zul'Aman - timed event)

15. Band of Impenetrable Defenses 36STA TP:4088
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=31319 (random BOE)

16. Band of the Eternal Champion (DPS Exaulted & Revered) 43STA TP:4052
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29301
* proc

17. Signet of Eternal Life 54STA TP:2982 *top stamina*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33500 (Zul'Aman - timed event)

18. Lieutenant's Signet of Lordaeron 30STA TP:3912
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28211 (Heroic Old Hillsbrad - Lt Drake)

19. Yor's Revenge 30STA TP:3872
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=31924 (Heroic Mana Tombs - Yor "summoned boss")

20. Ring of the Dreadnaught 27STA TP:3642 *best lvl 60 epic*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=23059 (Naxx - Kel'Thuzad)

21. Delicate Eternium Ring 15STA TP:3604
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=24088 (crafted)

22. Protector's Mark of the Redemption 22STA TP:3603
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=31078 (Shadowmoon quest)

23. Ring of Deceitful Intent 42STA +1.2%hit TP:3525
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32266 (Shade of Akama - Black Temple)

24. Violet Signet (Tanking Friendly) 27STA TP:3506
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29276 (Violet Eye Friendly)

25. Iron Band of the Unbreakable 27STA TP:3446
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27436 (Old Hillsbrad - Lt Drake)

26. Crystal Band of Valor 27STA +1.0%hit TP:3217
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27822 (Heroic Mana Tombs - Tavarok)

27. Ring of the Stonebark 18STA TP:3199
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=31528 (Blade's Edge quest)

28. Wind Trader's Band 34STA +0.4%hit TP:3176
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30006 (Netherstorm quest)

29. Andormu's Tear 0STA TP:3027
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29323 (Black Morass quest)

30. Ring of Emperor Vek'lor 18STA TP:2981 *lvl 60 epic*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=21601 (AQ40 - Twin Emps)

31. Ancestral Ring of Conquest 30STA TP:2938
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30061 (SSC - The Lurker Below)

32. Ring of Lethality 19STA +1.2%hit TP:2425
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30052 (SSC - Hydross)

33. Heavy Adamantite Ring 42STA TP:2302
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=24078 (crafted)

34. Dath'Remar's Ring of Defense 15STA TP:2286
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28265 (Mechanar - Pathaleon the Calculator)

35. Band of Vile Aggression 37STA TP:2041
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33055 (SSC - Hydross)




Aggro Rings

Entry level raiding: My favorites for entry level raiding are the Garona's Signet, Resounding Ring of Glory and Kara Master Assassin ring. Crystal Band of Valor should get an honorable mention down here. Its listed in the tank rings but has 1% +hit on it.

Tier 5 raiding: When a better tanking ring drops, you can trade in for the Kara Master Assassin ring. Leave the other DPS rings that don't have +hit for the physical DPS classes.

Tier 6 raiding: Band of the Abyssal Lord & Ring of Deceitful Intent make for a perfect aggro set and you aren't sacrificing tank stats.





Band of the Abyssal Lord 53STA +1.3%hit TP:5054
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32261 (Supremus - Black Temple)


Band of the Eternal Champion (DPS Exaulted & Revered) 43STA TP:4052
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29301
* proc


Ring of Deceitful Intent 42STA +1.2%hit TP:3525
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32266 (Shade of Akama - Black Temple)


Signet of Primal Wrath 30STA TP:3299
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33496 (Zul'Aman - timed event)


Ancestral Ring of Conquest 30STA TP:2938
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30061 (SSC - The Lurker Below)


Lightwarden's Band 27STA TP:2553
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29128 (Aldor Revered)


Garona's Signet Ring 25STA +1.1%hit TP:2511
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28649 (Karazhan - Curator)


Ring of Lethality 19STA +1.2%hit TP:2425
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30052 (SSC - Hydross)


Band of Devastation 44STA TP:2407
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32526 (Black Temple trash)
* 31 haste rating


Averinn's Ring of Slaying 18STA TP:2255
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27453 (Heroic Ramparts - Vazruden's chest)


Band of Vile Aggression 37STA TP:2041
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33055 (SSC - Hydross)


Ravenclaw Band 15STA +0.8%hit TP:1980
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27925 (Sethekk Halls - Talon King Ikiss)


A'dal's Command 16STA TP:1958
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29177 (Sha'tar Exaulted)


Band of Ursol 22STA TP:1939
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27740 (Heroic Slave Pens - Quagmirran)

Stormrage Signet Ring 33STA +1.9%hit TP:1831
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32497 (Illidan Stormrage - Black Temple)
* ignore 126 armor


Longstrider's Loop 15STA +0.7%hit TP: 1749
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=25962 (Mana Tombs - Nexus-Prince Shaffar)

Unstoppable Aggressor's Ring 28STA TP:1619
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32335 (Gurtogg Bloodboil - Black Temple)


Violet Signet of the Master Assassin 28STA +1.6%hit TP:1570
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29283 (Violet Eye Exaulted)


Band of the Ranger-General 27STA +1.1%hit TP:1518
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29997 (Eye - Kael'thas Sunstrider)


Resounding Ring of Glory 24STA +1.0%hit TP:1358
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27904 (Heroic Old Hillsbrad - Epoch Hunter)


Mithril Band of the Unscarred 21STA TP:1358
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28730 (Karazhan - Netherspite)


Band of the Exorcist 24STA 0.6%hit TP:1308
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28553 (50 Spirit Shards)


Ring of Arathi Warlords 24STA TP:1308
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29379 (25 Heroic Badges)


Ring of a Thousand Marks 18STA +1.0%hit TP:1151
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28757 (Karazhan - Prince)


Reavers' Ring 18STA TP:1044
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27460 (Heroic Ramparts - Vazruden's chest)


Ring of the Shadow Deeps 15STA +0.8%hit TP:837
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27761 (Heroic Underbog - Ghaz'an)

The trinkets are ranked in order of their passive tankpoints, but I also list the on use proc. If you religiously popped the trinket every time the cooldown was up, you could add the average into the passive amount. Moroes's trinket gives the best stat increase and has the best on use effect for early raiding. Even though the Gnomer auto-blocker is on the bottom, it is still a must have for any protection warrior. Popping that makes your shield slams deadly, more for a pvp and soloing toy. The new Darkmoon sets have a trinket with 51 Stamina and procs. I never thought I'd see 1020 hp coming from the trinkey slots. The new rep reward for Netherwing has the same stamina as the engineer's trinket.

Entry level raiding: If you have the funds, buy both Darkmoon cards. You will use one or both in most fights, trading in one of the higher powered avoidance trinkets on select fights you need a panic button. Moroes' watch is a great one to help get through a Gruul silence.

Tier 5 raiding: Pick up Hydross's trinket for a good avoidance piece. It also makes it easier to be uncritable in future Hydross fights.

Tier 6 raiding: Shadowmoon Insignia has a ton of passive avoidance.

Patch 2.3: Unlike the other avoidance trinkets a big load of parry will not hurt your rage/aggro generation. I don't know the cooldown yet.


1. Shadowmoon Insignia TP:5861 passive, + TP:9462 for 20 sec proc / 3 min cooldown (1051 average over time)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32501 (Gurtogg Bloodboil - Black Temple)
* 1750 max hp on use


2. Scarab of Displacement 0STA TP:3357 passive + 15519 for 15 sec proc / 3 min cooldown (1293 average over time)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30629 (SSC - Hydross)


3. Moroes' Lucky Pocket Watch TP:3244 passive + 36257 for 10 sec proc / 2 min cooldown (3021 average over time)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28528 (Karazhan - Moroes)


4. Ancient Aqir Artifact TP:3067 passive + 8937 for 20 sec proc / 2 min cooldown (1490 average over time)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=33830 (Zul'Aman - Zul'jin)


4. Darkmoon Card: Vengeance 51STA TP:2865 *top stamina*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=31858 (collect a set of Furies cards)


4. Darkmoon Card: Madness 51STA TP:2865 *top stamina*
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=31859 (collect a set of Lunacy cards)


6. Gnomish Poultryizer 45STA TP:2541 passive
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=23835 (crafted engineering only)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=23836 (crafted engineering only)


6. Commander's Badge 45STA TP:2541 passive
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32864 (Netherwing Revered)


8. Figurine - Dawnstone Crab TP:2543 passive + 11710 for 20 sec proc / 2 min cooldown (1951 average over time)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=24125 (crafted jewelcrafters only)


8. Adamantine Figurine TP:2543 passive + 4546 for 20 sec proc / 2 minute cooldown (757 average over time)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27891 (Shadow Labs - Blackheart the Inciter)


10. Styleen's Impeding Scarab TP:2647 passive
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=19431 (BWL - Flamegor)


11. Dabiri's Enigma TP:2342 passive + 9113 for 15 sec proc / 90 sec cooldown (1518 average over time)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30300 (Netherstorm quest)


12. Spyglass of the Hidden Fleet 40STA TP:2216 passive + (1300 healing per 2 min)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=30620


13. Violet Badge 36STA TP:2000 passive
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=31113 (Karazhan quest)


13. Argussian Compass 36STA TP:2000 passive + 727 during use (121 average over time)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27770 (Heroic Underbog - The Black Stalker)


15. Regal Protectorate TP:2142 passive + 4866 during use (243 average over time)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=28042 (Hellfire quest)


16. Stormpike Insignia Rank 6 TP:2020 passive
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=17904 (AV rep quest)


17. Onyxia Blood Talisman TP:2327 passive
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=18406 (Onyxia quest)


18. Alchemist's Stone TP:1727 passive
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=13503 (crafted alchemists only)


19. Gnomeregan Auto-Blocker 600 TP:2008 passive + 7291 during use (334 average over time)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=29387 (41 Heroic badges)


20. Badge of Tenacity TP:1089 passive + 9632 during use (1605 average over time)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32658 (Ogri'la Depleted Badge)


21. Figurine of the Colossus TP:338 passive + 4195 during use (699 average over time)
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=27529 (Shattered Halls - Kargath)


22. Ashtongue Talisman of Valor TP:0 passive 1784 proc
http://www.wowarmory.com/item-info.xml?i=32485 (Exaulted Ashtongue Deathsworn)
* 25% healing/strength proc

you mention how much threat you gain from a fast weapon with HS, but you neglect to mention how much Threat you Gain from a Slow weapon with Devastate.

im curious to see the difference, anyhow, GJ.

(Deleted my Previous post to keep your list together)