Gearing an Affliction Warlock in TBC Classic isn't as straightforward as grabbing the highest item level pieces you can find. You'll need to balance multiple stats while keeping a close eye on Hit Rating to make sure your spells actually land on raid bosses. This guide walks you through every phase of TBC Classic, from dungeon gear all the way to Sunwell Plateau, with recommendations for each slot and plenty of alternatives.
There's no single "perfect" gear set that works for every situation. Your best setup depends on how much Hit Rating you're getting from other sources, what buffs your raid provides, and where you are in progression. Use this guide as a framework and adjust based on your specific circumstances.
Hit Rating and Stat Priorities
Why Hit Rating Matters Most
Until you reach the cap, Hit Rating beats every other stat point for point. A missed spell deals zero damage, so getting Hit capped takes priority over everything else.
- Level 73 raid bosses need +16% chance to hit
- Level 70 trash mobs only need +3% chance to hit
You'll generally want to gear for the boss cap. Some players keep a separate trash-clearing set, but that's optional.
Hit Rating From Buffs and Group Composition
Several sources can lower how much Hit Rating you need from gear:
Racial Bonuses: Draenei give 1% Hit to their whole party through Inspiring Presence
Group Buffs:
- Elemental Shamans drop Totem of Wrath for 3% Hit
- Elemental Shamans with T4 gear add extra Spell Damage (101 base, 121 with the set)
- Balance Druids provide around 5% Crit through Moonkin Form (closer to 6% with Idol of the Raven Goddess)
Legendary Weapons:
- Warlocks with Atiesh, Greatstaff of the Guardian give 33 Spell Damage to their whole party
- The Mage version of Atiesh gives 28 Critical Strike Rating instead
Gems for Hit Rating
When you need more Hit Rating, look at these gems:
- Veiled Noble Topaz (Hit + Spell Damage)
- Great Dawnstone (pure Hit Rating)
Once you're Hit capped, switch to pure Spell Power gems like Runed Crimson Spinel (epic) or Runed Living Ruby (rare).
Aldor vs Scryer
One of your first major decisions in TBC is picking between Aldor and Scryers in Shattrath. For Affliction Warlocks, this choice barely matters.
What Scryers Offer
Better Items:
- Scryer's Bloodgem (Trinket) at Revered
- Seer's Signet (Ring) at Exalted
Both are solid pieces, but better options exist in Phase 1 raids. The real value is flexibility. You can swap these in and out to adjust your total Hit Rating as needed.
What Aldor Offers
Better Shoulder Enchant: Greater Inscription of Discipline beats Greater Inscription of the Orb by about 1-2 DPS. That difference is basically nothing.
What About the Shattered Sun Pendant?
Shattered Sun Pendant of Acumen changes its proc based on your faction. It doesn't unlock until Phase 5 though, and by then better necks exist regardless of which side you picked. Don't let this influence your decision.
Pre-Raid Gear
Before stepping into Karazhan, you can build a strong set from Normal and Heroic dungeons, reputation vendors, crafted items, world drops, and quest rewards. Players who raided Classic content might still have some Naxxramas or AQ40 pieces that hold up at level 70.
Head Slot
Top Pick: Spellstrike Hood - Source: Tailoring (available on the Auction House). This is technically pre-raid BiS, but Voidheart Crown from Karazhan replaces it because of the Meta gem socket. Craft Spellstrike Pants first since those stay relevant longer.
Other Options: Evoker's Helmet of Second Sight from the "Teron Gorefiend, I am..." quest, Incanter's Cowl from Pathaleon the Calculator in The Mechanar, Hood of Oblivion from Harbinger Skyriss in The Arcatraz, Mag'hari Ritualist's Horns from "Hero of the Mag'har" quest (Horde only).
Shoulder Slot
Top Pick: Frozen Shadoweave Shoulders - Source: Tailoring (Shadoweave spec required, Bind on Pickup). T4 shoulders will eventually replace these.
Other Options: Plagueheart Shoulderpads from Classic Naxxramas (still excellent if you have them), Mana-Etched Spaulders from Quagmirran in Heroic Slave Pens, Mantle of Three Terrors from Chrono Lord Deja in Black Morass, Spaulders of the Torn-heart from "The Cipher of Damnation" quest chain. The Mana-Etched Regalia 2-piece bonus gives solid Hit Rating if you need it.
Back Slot
Top Pick: Cloak of the Necropolis - Source: Sapphiron in Classic Naxxramas.
Other Options (all pretty close in value): Sethekk Oracle Cloak from Talon King Ikiss in Sethekk Halls, Cloak of the Devoured from C'Thun in Classic AQ40, Cloak of Entropy (world drop, usually cheap on the AH).
Chest Slot
Top Pick: Frozen Shadoweave Robe - Source: Tailoring (Shadoweave spec required, Bind on Pickup).
Best Hit Option: Robe of the Crimson Order - Source: World Drop. Great choice when you need a lot of Hit Rating.
Other Options: Plagueheart Robe from Classic Naxxramas, Auchenai Anchorite's Robe from "Everything Will Be Alright" quest in Auchenai Crypts (good for Hit), Mana-Etched Vestments from Epoch Hunter in Heroic Old Hillsbrad (pairs well with another piece for the 2-set Hit bonus), Robe of Oblivion from Murmur in Shadow Labyrinth.
Wrist Slot
Top Pick (if you need Hit): Rockfury Bracers - Source: "Stalwart's Battlegear" quest in Classic AQ40. A Classic piece that's still great at 70 when you need Hit.
Top Pick (if Hit capped): Bracers of Havok - Source: Tailoring (available on the AH).
Other Option: Crimson Bracers of Gloom from Omor the Unscarred in Heroic Hellfire Ramparts.
Hand Slot
Top Pick: Dark Storm Gauntlets - Source: C'Thun in Classic AQ40. Excellent if you have these from Classic.
Top Pick (without Classic gear): Gloves of Pandemonium - Source: World Drop.
Other Options: Mana-Etched Gloves from Omor the Unscarred in Heroic Hellfire Ramparts (good Hit with 2-set bonus), Gloves of Oblivion from Warchief Kargath Bladefist in Shattered Halls, Manaspark Gloves from Hungarfen in The Underbog (solid Hit option).
Waist Slot
Top Pick: Girdle of Ruination - Source: Tailoring (available on the AH). Can be pricey early on.
Best Hit Option: Belt of Depravity - Source: Harbinger Skyriss in Heroic Arcatraz.
Other Options: Eyestalk Waist Cord from C'Thun in Classic AQ40, A'dal's Gift from "How to Break Into the Arcatraz" quest, Sash of Serpentra from Warlord Kalithresh in Steamvault.
Leg Slot
Top Pick: Spellstrike Pants - Source: Tailoring (available on the AH). Your main choice here, and they stay useful for a while.
Runner-Up: Breeches of the Occultist - Source: Aeonus in Heroic Black Morass. Technically a bit better than Spellstrike, but not worth farming specifically when you consider set bonus value.
Other Options: Leggings of Polarity from Thaddius in Classic Naxxramas, Fel Infused Leggings from Lord Kazzak (World Boss), Trousers of Oblivion from Talon King Ikiss in Sethekk Halls, Mana-Etched Pantaloons from The Black Stalker in Heroic Underbog (good for Hit).
Feet Slot
Top Pick: Frozen Shadoweave Boots - Source: Tailoring (Shadoweave spec required, Bind on Pickup).
Other Options: Extravagant Boots of Malice from Tavarok in Heroic Mana-Tombs, Sigil-Laced Boots from Harbinger Skyriss in The Arcatraz, Shattrath Jumpers from "Into the Heart of the Labyrinth" quest in Shadow Labyrinth, Plagueheart Sandals from Classic Naxxramas (still holds up at 70).
Neck Slot
Top Picks: Brooch of Heightened Potential from Blackheart the Inciter in Shadow Labyrinth, Hydra-fang Necklace from Ghaz'an in The Underbog.
Other Options (from Classic): Amulet of Vek'nilash from Emperor Vek'nilash in Classic AQ40, Gem of Trapped Innocents from Kel'Thuzad in Classic Naxxramas, Choker of the Fire Lord from Ragnaros in Classic Molten Core.
Ring Slots
Rings give you a lot of flexibility for balancing Hit Rating. Your best options shift based on the rest of your gear.
Top Picks: Ashyen's Gift from Cenarion Expedition at Exalted, Sparking Arcanite Ring from Epoch Hunter in Heroic Old Hillsbrad, Seer's Signet from The Scryers at Exalted, Seal of the Exorcist for 50 Spirit Shards.
Options from Classic: Ring of the Fallen God from "The Savior of Kalimdor" quest in Classic AQ40, Band of the Inevitable from Noth the Plaguebringer in Classic Naxxramas, Seal of the Damned from Four Horsemen Chest in Classic Naxxramas.
Trinket Slots
Top Picks: Icon of the Silver Crescent for 41 Badges of Justice, Quagmirran's Eye from Quagmirran in Heroic Slave Pens.
Best vs Demons/Undead: Mark of the Champion - Source: "The Fall of Kel'Thuzad" quest in Classic Naxxramas. Incredibly strong against the right enemy types.
Hit Option: Scryer's Bloodgem - Source: The Scryers at Revered.
Other Options: Neltharion's Tear from Nefarian in Classic Blackwing Lair (good for Hit), The Restrained Essence of Sapphiron from Sapphiron in Classic Naxxramas, The Black Book from Razorgore in Classic Blackwing Lair (use it to buff your pet before a pull, then swap to another trinket).
Weapon Slot
Best One-Handers: Blade of Wizardry (world drop, very expensive), Illidari-Bane Mageblade from "Quenching the Blade" quest (best against Demons), Stormcaller (Horde) / Blade of the Archmage (Alliance) from Thrallmar/Honor Hold at Exalted.
Best Two-Hander: Atiesh, Greatstaff of the Guardian - Source: Quest chain in Classic Naxxramas. The party-wide 33 Spell Damage buff keeps this relevant until Phase 3, even though staves usually lose to one-hand/off-hand combos.
Other Options: Greatsword of Horrid Dreams from Murmur in Shadow Labyrinth, Eternium Runed Blade (Blacksmithing crafted).
Off-Hand Slot
Top Pick: Khadgar's Knapsack - Source: 25 Badges of Justice.
Best Hit Option: Lamp of Peaceful Radiance - Source: Harbinger Skyriss in The Arcatraz.
Other Options: Orb of the Soul-Eater for 25 Badges of Justice (2 more Shadow power than Khadgar's, but loses Spell Damage on Immolate and shadow-immune targets), Sapphiron's Left Eye from Sapphiron in Classic Naxxramas.
Wand Slot
Top Picks: Doomfinger from Kel'Thuzad in Classic Naxxramas, The Black Stalk from The Black Stalker in Heroic Underbog.
Hit Options: Wand of Fates from Patchwerk in Classic Naxxramas, Nether Core's Control Rod from Dalliah the Doomsayer in The Arcatraz.
Phase 1: Karazhan, Gruul's Lair, and Magtheridon's Lair
Phase 1 brings Tier 4 gear, and your goal is getting the 4-piece Voidheart Raiment set bonus. The bonus combined with the Meta gem socket on the T4 helm makes certain slot choices matter more than raw stats.
Set Bonus Priority
The Voidheart Raiment 4-piece bonus is what you're working toward in Phase 1. The pieces come from:
| Slot | Source |
|---|---|
| Helm | Prince Malchezaar (Karazhan) |
| Shoulders | High King Maulgar (Gruul's Lair) |
| Chest | Magtheridon (Magtheridon's Lair) |
| Gloves | The Curator (Karazhan) |
| Legs | Gruul the Dragonkiller (Gruul's Lair) |
Head Slot
Top Pick: Voidheart Crown - Source: Prince Malchezaar in Karazhan. BiS because of the 4-piece goal and Meta gem socket.
Other Options: Spellstrike Hood (Tailoring) still works but loses to T4 4-piece + Meta, Uni-Mind Headdress from Netherspite in Karazhan.
Shoulder Slot
Top Pick: Voidheart Mantle - Source: High King Maulgar in Gruul's Lair. Great slot for the T4 set bonus.
Other Option: Frozen Shadoweave Shoulders (Tailoring, Shadoweave spec, BoP).
Back Slot
Top Pick: Ruby Drape of the Mysticant - Source: Prince Malchezaar in Karazhan. Solid all-around piece with Hit and Spell Damage.
Best Non-Hit Option: Ancient Spellcloak of the Highborne - Source: Doom Lord Kazzak (World Boss). Use this if you're already Hit capped.
Other Option: Brute Cloak of the Ogre-Magi from High King Maulgar in Gruul's Lair.
Chest Slot
Top Pick: Voidheart Robe - Source: Magtheridon in Magtheridon's Lair. Main choice because of set bonuses.
Other Options: Frozen Shadoweave Robe (Tailoring, Shadoweave spec, BoP), Robe of the Elder Scribes from Nightbane in Karazhan.
Wrist Slot
Top Pick: Bracers of Havok - Source: Tailoring (available on the AH, Bind on Equip). Easy to get, great stats, has a socket.
Other Options: Elementalist Bracelets of Shadow Wrath (world drop), Bands of Nefarious Deeds from Maiden of Virtue in Karazhan.
Hand Slot
Top Pick: Voidheart Gloves - Source: The Curator in Karazhan. Use these for the 4-piece Voidheart bonus.
Other Options: Anger-Spark Gloves from Doomwalker (World Boss) have great stats but are hard to get, Handwraps of Flowing Thought from Attumen the Huntsman in Karazhan, Soul-Eater's Handwraps from Magtheridon in Magtheridon's Lair.
Waist Slot
Top Pick: Girdle of Ruination - Source: Tailoring (available on the AH, BoE). Non-Tailors can use this too.
Other Option: Belt of Divine Inspiration from High King Maulgar in Gruul's Lair.
Leg Slot
Top Pick: Spellstrike Pants - Source: Tailoring (available on the AH). Solid choice if you don't need legs for T4.
Other Options: Voidheart Leggings from Gruul the Dragonkiller in Gruul's Lair (use for 4-piece if you're using World Boss gloves), Leggings of the Seventh Circle from Doom Lord Kazzak (slightly better stats but much harder to get and no set bonus).
Feet Slot
Top Pick: Frozen Shadoweave Boots - Source: Tailoring (Shadoweave spec, BoP). Great Shadow damage and 2 sockets.
Other Options (depends on your Hit needs): Ruby Slippers from The Crone in Karazhan, Boots of Foretelling from Maiden of Virtue in Karazhan.
Neck Slot
Top Pick: Brooch of Unquenchable Fury - Source: Moroes in Karazhan. Strictly best if you can use the Hit.
Other Options (all very close, about 1 Spell Damage apart): Brooch of Heightened Potential from Blackheart the Inciter in Shadow Labyrinth, Adornment of Stolen Souls from Prince Malchezaar in Karazhan, Ritssyn's Lost Pendant from Karazhan trash.
Ring Slots
Rings stay easy to swap based on Hit needs. The Karazhan reputation ring starts good and keeps improving.
Top Picks: Band of Crimson Fury from "The Fall of Magtheridon" quest, Ashyen's Gift from Cenarion Expedition at Exalted, Ring of Recurrence from Chess Event in Karazhan, Violet Signet of the Archmage from "Path of the Violet Mage" (The Violet Eye rep).
Hit Option from Classic: Ring of the Fallen God from "The Savior of Kalimdor" quest (still great for Hit).
Trinket Slots
Top Picks: Quagmirran's Eye from Quagmirran in The Slave Pens, Icon of the Silver Crescent for 41 Badges of Justice.
Other Options: Mark of the Champion from "The Fall of Kel'Thuzad" quest (wrecks Demons/Undead), Scryer's Bloodgem from The Scryers at Revered (Hit option), Neltharion's Tear from Nefarian in Classic Blackwing Lair (Hit option).
Weapon Slots
Best Two-Hander: Atiesh, Greatstaff of the Guardian - Source: Classic Naxxramas quest chain. The party-wide 33 Spell Damage buff keeps this competitive until Phase 3.
Best One-Hander: Talon of the Tempest - Source: Doomwalker (World Boss). Hard to get but strongest option.
Other One-Handers: Bloodmaw Magus-Blade from Gruul the Dragonkiller in Gruul's Lair, Nathrezim Mindblade from Prince Malchezaar in Karazhan, Gladiator's Spellblade for Arena Points (Season 1), Illidari-Bane Mageblade from the quest (strong vs Demons), Blade of Wizardry (world drop), Eternium Runed Blade (Blacksmithing crafted).
Off-Hand Slot
Top Pick: Khadgar's Knapsack - Source: 25 Badges of Justice.
Other Options: Orb of the Soul-Eater for 25 Badges (slightly more Shadow damage but doesn't help Immolate), Jewel of Infinite Possibilities from Netherspite in Karazhan.
Wand Slot
Best Hit Option: Tirisfal Wand of Ascendancy - Source: Shade of Aran in Karazhan.
Best Non-Hit Option: Eredar Wand of Obliteration - Source: Magtheridon in Magtheridon's Lair.
Phase 2: Tempest Keep and Serpentshrine Cavern
Phase 2 adds Tier 5 Corruptor Raiment. The 4-piece Corruptor bonus has some problems though: it only affects base damage, loses value on multi-target fights since you can't Shadow Bolt multiple targets at once, and drops off during movement-heavy encounters. Skip the 4-piece and just keep your T4 2-piece instead.
Hold onto Voidheart Mantle and Voidheart Gloves (the slots where you lose the least stats) and grab stronger individual pieces everywhere else.
Head Slot
Top Pick: Destruction Holo-gogs - Source: Engineering crafted (BoP). Best helm this phase, but you need Engineering.
Best Non-Engineering Option: Hood of the Corruptor - Source: Lady Vashj in Serpentshrine Cavern. A bit better than Voidheart Crown, but only if you're keeping T4 2-piece elsewhere.
Shoulder Slot
Top Pick: Voidheart Mantle - Source: High King Maulgar in Gruul's Lair. Solid slot to keep for T4 2-piece since you lose the fewest stats here.
Other Options (if your T4 2-piece is covered elsewhere): Mantle of the Corruptor from Void Reaver in Tempest Keep, Illidari Shoulderpads from Morogrim Tidewalker in Serpentshrine Cavern, Mantle of the Elven Kings from Tempest Keep trash, Frozen Shadoweave Shoulders (Tailoring, Shadoweave spec, BoP).
Back Slot
Top Picks (same as Phase 1): Ruby Drape of the Mysticant from Prince Malchezaar (if you need Hit), Ancient Spellcloak of the Highborne from Doom Lord Kazzak (if Hit capped).
Other Options: Royal Cloak of the Sunstriders from Kael'thas Sunstrider in Tempest Keep (if Hit capped), Brute Cloak of the Ogre-Magi from High King Maulgar in Gruul's Lair.
Chest Slot
Top Pick: Vestments of the Sea-Witch - Source: Lady Vashj in Serpentshrine Cavern. Huge upgrade, way ahead of alternatives.
Other Options: Robe of the Corruptor from Kael'thas Sunstrider in Tempest Keep, Robe of Hateful Echoes from Hydross the Unstable in Serpentshrine Cavern, Voidheart Robe from Magtheridon's Lair (if you need this slot for T4 2-piece), Frozen Shadoweave Robe (Tailoring, Shadoweave spec, BoP).
Wrist Slot
Top Pick: Mindstorm Wristbands - Source: Al'ar in Tempest Keep.
Alternative Top Pick: Ravager's Cuffs of Shadow Wrath - Source: Rokad the Ravager in Karazhan. About equal to Mindstorm or slightly worse, depending on your random suffix roll.
Hand Slot
Top Pick for T4 2-Piece: Voidheart Gloves - Source: The Curator in Karazhan. Good slot to maintain your T4 2-piece.
Best Pure Stats: Anger-Spark Gloves - Source: Doomwalker (World Boss). Strongest glove stats but World Boss makes it tough to get.
Waist Slot
Top Pick: Belt of Blasting - Source: Tailoring (available on AH). Nice upgrade over Girdle of Ruination.
Other Options: Cord of Screaming Terrors from The Lurker Below in Serpentshrine Cavern, Girdle of Ruination (Tailoring, AH), Belt of Divine Inspiration from High King Maulgar in Gruul's Lair.
Leg Slot
Top Picks (roughly equal): Leggings of the Corruptor from Fathom-Lord Karathress in Serpentshrine Cavern, Leggings of the Seventh Circle from Doom Lord Kazzak (World Boss), Spellstrike Pants (Tailoring, AH).
Most players already have Spellstrike Pants or Leggings of the Seventh Circle from Phase 1. Let other raid members take the T5 token unless you really need it.
Feet Slot
Top Pick: Boots of Blasting - Source: Tailoring (BoP).
Other Options (all about equal): Glider's Foot-Wraps of Shadow Wrath from Shadikith the Glider in Karazhan, Boots of the Shifting Nightmare from Hydross the Unstable in Serpentshrine Cavern, Frozen Shadoweave Boots, Velvet Boots of the Guardian from The Lurker Below, Boots of Foretelling from Maiden of Virtue, Ruby Slippers from The Crone.
Neck Slot
Buff Neck (strongest during the buff): Eye of the Night - Source: Jewelcrafting (available on AH). People forget about this one, but the party buffs are powerful. Swap to something else when someone else is providing the buff or yours is on cooldown.
Best Standard Option: The Sun King's Talisman - Source: Kael'thas Sunstrider in Tempest Keep.
Ring Slots
Rings stay flexible for Hit adjustments.
Top Pick: Ring of Endless Coils - Source: Lady Vashj in Serpentshrine Cavern. New strongest ring this phase.
Best Hit Options: Band of Crimson Fury from "The Fall of Magtheridon" quest, Ashyen's Gift from Cenarion Expedition at Exalted, Ring of the Fallen God from "The Savior of Kalimdor" quest (Classic).
Trinket Slots
Not much changes from Phase 1.
Best vs Demons/Undead: Mark of the Champion - Source: "The Fall of Kel'Thuzad" quest (Classic).
Best General Options: Quagmirran's Eye from Quagmirran in Heroic Slave Pens, Icon of the Silver Crescent for 41 Badges of Justice.
One-Handed Weapons
Top Picks: Merciless Gladiator's Spellblade for Arena Points (Season 2), Fang of the Leviathan from Leotheras the Blind in Serpentshrine Cavern. Both beat Phase 1 World Boss alternatives and they're roughly equal to each other.
Two-Handed Weapons
Staves usually can't compete with one-hand + off-hand combos, but two come close:
Competitive Options: Merciless Gladiator's War Staff for Arena Points (Season 2), The Nexus Key from Kael'thas Sunstrider in Tempest Keep.
Special Case: Atiesh, Greatstaff of the Guardian - Stats are good but not as good as best 1H+OH combos. The party-wide 33 Spell Damage buff is the real draw and keeps this relevant.
Off-Hand Slot
Top Pick: Fathomstone - Source: Hydross the Unstable in Serpentshrine Cavern.
Wand Slot
Top Pick: Wand of the Forgotten Star - Source: High Astromancer Solarian in Tempest Keep. Clearly the strongest this phase.
Phase 3: Black Temple and Mount Hyjal
Phase 3 is a major gearing milestone thanks to Tier 6 Malefic Raiment. The 4-piece bonus increases Shadow Bolt and Incinerate damage by 6%, which works out to roughly 100+ Spell Power, more than double 4-piece T4, and better than 3-piece Spellfire. You'll use this set until TBC ends, though the specific pieces shift around in Sunwell.
Priority Items This Phase
Several high-value caster pieces drop in Phase 3, and you're competing with other casters for them. The Skull of Gul'dan should be your top priority. It gives the biggest DPS gain outside of Malefic 4-piece and stays BiS through the whole expansion.
Head Slot
Top Pick: Hood of the Malefic - Source: Archimonde in Hyjal Summit. Great slot for 4-piece Malefic (plus you get wings!).
Alternative Top Pick: Cowl of the Illidari High Lord - Source: Illidan Stormrage in Black Temple. Slightly better stats, but loses to T6 helm because of set bonus value.
Shoulder Slot
Top Pick: Mantle of the Malefic - Source: Mother Shahraz in Black Temple. Main choice for 4-piece.
Back Slot
Phase 3 adds three new cloaks from Black Temple:
Top Pick: Nethervoid Cloak - Source: Black Temple trash. Technically highest value, but has a lot of Hit Rating you might not need given other Phase 3 gear.
Best Practical Options (about equal): Shroud of the Highborne from Illidan Stormrage in Black Temple, Cloak of the Illidari Council from High Nethermancer Zerevor in Black Temple.
Chest Slot
Top Pick: Vestments of the Sea-Witch - Source: Lady Vashj in Serpentshrine Cavern. Still best, especially if you already have it from Phase 2.
Alternative Top Pick: Robe of the Malefic - Source: Illidan Stormrage in Black Temple. Use this if you have Leggings of Channeled Elements for your 4-piece instead.
Wrist Slot
Top Pick: Bracers of Nimble Thought - Source: Tailoring (available on AH, BoE). Clearly the best bracers this phase.
Hand Slot
Top Pick: Gloves of the Malefic - Source: Azgalor in Hyjal Summit. Core piece for 4-piece bonus.
Waist Slot
Top Pick (on paper): Belt of Blasting - Source: Tailoring (AH). Technically strongest, but most of its value comes from Hit Rating, which Phase 3 gear already has plenty of.
Best Options (if Hit capped): Anetheron's Noose from Anetheron in Hyjal Summit, Waistwrap of Infinity from Supremus in Black Temple.
Leg Slot
Best for 4-Piece with Sea-Witch Chest: Leggings of the Malefic - Source: The Illidari Council in Black Temple.
Best for 4-Piece with Robe of Malefic: Leggings of Channeled Elements - Source: Kaz'rogal in Hyjal Summit.
Feet Slot
Top Pick: Slippers of the Seacaller - Source: High Warlord Naj'entus in Black Temple. Highest value this phase, and no Hit Rating.
Neck Slot
Best Hit Option: Translucent Spellthread Necklace - Source: Essence of Anger in Black Temple. Most value if you can use the Hit.
Best Non-Hit Option: The Sun King's Talisman - Source: Kael'thas Sunstrider in Tempest Keep.
Ring Slots
Top Pick: Ring of Ancient Knowledge - Source: Black Temple trash. This ring is NOT unique, so you can wear two.
Trinket Slots
For Demons/Undead: Mark of the Champion - Source: "The Fall of Kel'Thuzad" quest (Classic).
On-Use Options: Icon of the Silver Crescent for 41 Badges of Justice, Dark Iron Smoking Pipe from Coren Direbrew (Brewfest).
One-Handed Weapons
Top Pick: Tempest of Chaos - Source: Archimonde in Hyjal Summit. Paired with Chronicle of Dark Secrets, this is slightly behind Zhar'doom but has perks: sets you up for Sunwell (more Haste-focused gear), and having 1H+OH ready puts you in position for Phase 5 BiS weapons.
Two-Handed Weapons
Top Pick: Zhar'doom, Greatstaff of the Devourer - Source: Illidan Stormrage in Black Temple. Every caster DPS wants this. It's particularly strong for Warlocks, usually giving us bigger DPS gains than other classes.
Off-Hand Slot
Top Pick: Chronicle of Dark Secrets - Source: Rage Winterchill in Hyjal Summit. Best off-hand this phase.
Wand Slot
Top Pick: Wand of the Forgotten Star - Source: High Astromancer Solarian in Tempest Keep. Still the strongest.
Phase 4: Zul'Aman
Phase 4 brings Zul'Aman, a 10-player raid on a 3-day lockout. The smaller group size and faster reset make several items easier to grab than 25-player drops.
New items to target: Hex Shrunken Head, Brooch of Nature's Mercy, Mana Attuned Band, and Carved Witch Doctor's Stick.
Theoretical Alliance BiS
Assumes caster group with Elemental Shaman (Totem of Wrath, Wrath of Air Totem) and Draenei providing 1% Hit through Inspiring Presence:
| Slot | Item |
|---|---|
| Head | Hood of the Malefic |
| Neck | Brooch of Nature's Mercy |
| Shoulders | Mantle of the Malefic |
| Back | Shroud of the Highborne |
| Chest | Vestments of the Sea-Witch |
| Wrists | Bracers of Nimble Thought |
| Hands | Gloves of the Malefic |
| Waist | Anetheron's Noose |
| Legs | Leggings of the Malefic |
| Feet | Slippers of the Seacaller |
| Ring 1 | Mana Attuned Band |
| Ring 2 | Ring of Ancient Knowledge |
| Trinket 1 | Hex Shrunken Head |
| Trinket 2 | The Skull of Gul'dan |
| Weapon | Zhar'doom, Greatstaff of the Devourer |
| Wand | Carved Witch Doctor's Stick |
Theoretical Horde BiS
Same as Alliance except Wand: Wand of the Forgotten Star (Horde can better use the Hit for boss sets).
Key Phase 4 Items
Top Pick Ring: Mana Attuned Band - Source: Zul'Aman Timed Event. New best ring this phase. Same stats as Ring of Ancient Knowledge but with Hit Rating added.
Top Pick Trinket: Hex Shrunken Head - Source: Hex Lord Malacrass in Zul'Aman. Pairs nicely with the Skull and easier to get from a 10-player raid with 3-day lockout.
Best Non-Hit Neck: Brooch of Nature's Mercy - Source: Akil'zon in Zul'Aman. This is technically a healing item, but the Haste makes it our best neck when we can't use the Hit from Translucent Spellthread Necklace.
Top Pick Wand: Carved Witch Doctor's Stick - Source: 25 Badges of Justice. High Spell Power, no Hit, and has a blue socket with +2 Spell Damage bonus that's perfect for Meta gem requirements.
Phase 5: Sunwell Plateau
The final phase brings Sunwell Plateau and the expansion's best gear. Malefic Raiment stays important, but the specific pieces you use change. New T6 off-pieces (Bracers of the Malefic, Belt of the Malefic, Boots of the Malefic) are BiS on their own, not just for the set bonus.
How Malefic Raiment Changes
The new off-pieces mean you only need one other Malefic piece for the 4-piece bonus. Two setups work:
Setup 1 (slightly stronger): Dark Conjuror's Collar (helm) + Mantle of the Malefic (shoulders)
Setup 2: Hood of the Malefic (helm) + Amice of the Convoker (shoulders)
The difference between them is negligible and won't show in logs.
Profession Choices for Phase 5
Jewelcrafting, Tailoring, and Engineering all have unique items this phase. With only two profession slots and Enchanting (for ring enchants) providing maximum DPS, you have to pick one more.
Tailoring vs Jewelcrafting: Sunfire Robe (Tailoring) + Amulet of Unfettered Magics is slightly better for Horde. Pendant of Sunfire (Jewelcrafting) + Fel Conquerer Raiments is slightly stronger for Alliance and raid trash. Both setups are incredibly close.
Tailoring: Cloak of Embroidery (+295 Spell Power proc) is strong for all specs.
Engineering: 340 Haste on-use enchant plus utilities.
Jewelcrafting: Unique gems give +48 Spell Power, valuable for Demonology.
Theoretical Alliance BiS
Assumes caster group with Elemental Shaman and Draenei 1% Hit:
| Slot | Item |
|---|---|
| Head | Dark Conjuror's Collar |
| Neck | Pendant of Sunfire |
| Shoulders | Mantle of the Malefic |
| Back | Tattered Cape of Antonidas |
| Chest | Fel Conquerer Raiments |
| Wrists | Bracers of the Malefic |
| Hands | Handguards of Defiled Worlds |
| Waist | Belt of the Malefic |
| Legs | Leggings of Calamity |
| Feet | Boots of the Malefic |
| Ring 1 | Loop of Forged Power |
| Ring 2 | Ring of Omnipotence |
| Trinket 1 | Shifting Naaru Sliver |
| Trinket 2 | The Skull of Gul'dan |
| Weapon | Sunflare |
| Off-Hand | Heart of the Pit |
| Wand | Wand of the Demonsoul |
Theoretical Horde BiS
Same except: Neck: Amulet of Unfettered Magics | Chest: Sunfire Robe
Key Phase 5 Items
Top Pick Head: Dark Conjuror's Collar - Source: Kil'jaeden in Sunwell Plateau.
Top Pick Shoulders: Amice of the Convoker - Source: Grand Warlock Alythess in Sunwell Plateau. Best non-set option, stronger than Mantle of the Malefic alone.
Top Pick Back: Tattered Cape of Antonidas - Source: Kil'jaeden in Sunwell Plateau. Straight upgrade over previous Haste cloaks.
Best Tailoring Chest: Sunfire Robe - Source: Tailoring crafted (BoP). Technically best chest, but expensive.
Best Raid Drop Chest: Fel Conquerer Raiments - Source: M'uru in Sunwell Plateau.
Top Pick Wrists: Bracers of the Malefic - Source: Kalecgos or Eredar Twins in Sunwell Plateau. Big upgrade over Bracers of Nimble Thought, and opens other slots for upgrades by counting toward 4-piece.
Top Pick Hands: Handguards of Defiled Worlds - Source: Kil'jaeden in Sunwell Plateau. One of the bigger per-item upgrades.
Top Pick Waist: Belt of the Malefic - Source: Brutallus in Sunwell Plateau. Key piece for 4-piece, opens other slots for upgrades.
Top Pick Legs: Leggings of Calamity - Source: Brutallus in Sunwell Plateau. One of the bigger upgrade slots. Excellent for single-target and AoE thanks to high Haste and Crit.
Top Pick Feet: Boots of the Malefic - Source: Felmyst in Sunwell Plateau. Final new Malefic off-piece.
Jewelcrafting BiS Neck: Pendant of Sunfire - Use with Fel Conquerer Raiments.
Tailoring BiS Neck: Amulet of Unfettered Magics - Source: Eredar Twins in Sunwell Plateau. Use with Sunfire Robe.
Top Pick Rings: Ring of Omnipotence from M'uru in Sunwell Plateau, Loop of Forged Power (Jewelcrafting crafted, BoE, easier to get).
Top Pick Trinkets: Shifting Naaru Sliver from M'uru in Sunwell Plateau, The Skull of Gul'dan from Illidan Stormrage in Black Temple.
Top Pick Two-Hander: Grand Magister's Staff of Torrents - Source: Felmyst in Sunwell Plateau. Strong on its own and has a unique WotLK application for Affliction.
Top Pick One-Hander: Sunflare - Source: Kil'jaeden in Sunwell Plateau. Combined with Heart of the Pit, this is the best weapon setup for the rest of TBC.
Top Pick Off-Hand: Heart of the Pit - Source: Brutallus in Sunwell Plateau.
Top Pick Wand: Wand of the Demonsoul - Source: Sunwell Plateau trash. One of the bigger, easier upgrades this phase.
Badge of Justice Spending Priority
Badges pile up from Heroic dungeons and raid content. Here's the recommended order across all phases:
Early Priority (Phases 1-3)
- Icon of the Silver Crescent (41 Badges) serves as the strongest on-use trinket for multiple phases
- Khadgar's Knapsack or Orb of the Soul-Eater (25 Badges) for a strong off-hand
- Flametongue Seal (25 Badges) for Fire Destruction builds
Phase 4 Priority
- Carved Witch Doctor's Stick (25 Badges) offers great stats, no Hit, and a blue socket for Meta requirements
Phase 5 Priority
- Epic Gems like Crimson Spinel and Pyrestone (15 Badges each)
- Catch-up gear if needed: Tormented Demonsoul Robes (100 Badges), Corrupted Soulcloth Pantaloons (100 Badges)
Gem Strategy
Meta Gem
Chaotic Skyfire Diamond stays standard throughout TBC. Most helms have good socket bonuses (+5 Spell Damage) worth activating.
Red and Yellow Gems
- Runed Crimson Spinel (Epic, Phase 3+) for pure Spell Power, slightly beats hybrid options
- Potent Pyrestone (Epic, Phase 3+) for Spell Power + Crit, best for sockets with good bonuses you want to activate, slots that carry over to AoE sets, and pairing with blue gems for Meta requirements
Haste gems don't arrive until later phases. When they do, priorities shift.
Blue Gems
Only use for Meta requirements. Best options:
- Radiant Seaspray Emerald (Spell Penetration + Spell Power)
- Glowing Shadowsong Amethyst (Spell Power + Stamina)
Best placed in sockets with +Spell Damage or +Spell Hit bonuses.
General Tips
- Gem for Hit Rating until capped (202 rating, 190 for Alliance)
- Once Hit capped, prioritize Spell Power
- Most socket bonuses aren't worth activating unless they give Spell Damage or Spell Hit
- Blue gems should mainly satisfy Meta requirements while picking up a good socket bonus
Enchant Quick Reference
| Slot | Enchant |
|---|---|
| Head | Glyph of Power (Sha'tar or Cenarion Expedition at Revered) |
| Shoulders | Power of the Scourge (Sapphiron) ≈ Greater Inscription of Discipline (Aldor Exalted) |
| Back | Enchant Cloak: Subtlety (reduces threat) |
| Chest | Enchant Chest: Exceptional Stats |
| Wrists | Enchant Bracer: Spellpower |
| Hands | Enchant Gloves: Major Spellpower (main) or Spell Strike (Hit option) |
| Legs | Runic Spellthread > Mystic Spellthread |
| Feet | Enchant Boots: Boar's Speed (movement speed is valuable) |
| Weapon | Enchant Weapon: Soulfrost |
| Rings | Enchant Ring: Spellpower (Enchanting only) |
Special Gear Notes
Leotheras the Blind Tanking Set
Warlocks can tank the Demon phase of Leotheras using Infernoweave gear:
- Costs 100 Badges of Justice total for all 4 pieces
- Provides 200 Fire Resistance
Classic Items That Hold Up
Several Classic WoW pieces stay powerful in TBC:
From Naxxramas: Atiesh, Greatstaff of the Guardian (party buff keeps it relevant until Phase 3), Mark of the Champion (best trinket vs Demons/Undead throughout TBC), Plagueheart set pieces (shoulders, sandals), various weapons and trinkets.
From Ahn'Qiraj: Ring of the Fallen God (excellent Hit ring), Dark Storm Gauntlets, Eyestalk Waist Cord, various other pieces.
If you got these items in Classic, they can make your TBC gearing journey significantly easier.
Wrapping Up
Gearing an Affliction Warlock through TBC Classic means balancing Hit Rating with other stats while chasing powerful set bonuses. The milestones to hit:
- Pre-Raid: Build your Frozen Shadoweave set, Spellstrike pieces, and fill remaining slots
- Phase 1: Get the Voidheart Raiment 4-piece bonus
- Phase 2: Keep T4 2-piece while grabbing stronger individual pieces
- Phase 3: Prioritize Malefic Raiment 4-piece and The Skull of Gul'dan
- Phase 4: Pick up accessible upgrades from Zul'Aman (Hex Shrunken Head, Brooch of Nature's Mercy, Mana Attuned Band)
- Phase 5: Transition to new Malefic off-pieces and chase Sunflare + Heart of the Pit
Throughout every phase, stay flexible with your gear to adjust Hit Rating based on your group composition and available buffs. These recommendations provide the framework, but your optimal setup depends on your specific situation.