Skyrim: Get Daedric Gear Without Smithing? (Easy Guide)

Hey, fellow adventurers! Ever dreamt of clanking around Skyrim in a full set of menacing Daedric armor or wielding a Daedric sword that screams power? You know, that black and red armor that makes you look like you crawled straight out of Oblivion? Well, you're in the right place! Most players think you need to grind your Smithing skill to the heavens to get your hands on this gear, but guess what? There are sneaky, less grindy ways to acquire these formidable items. So, if you're like me and prefer adventuring to hammering away at a forge, keep reading!

Understanding Daedric Gear

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of acquiring Daedric armor and weapons, let's talk about what makes them so desirable. Daedric equipment stands out as some of the best in the game, offering superior protection and damage output compared to most other armor and weapon types. Obtaining a full suit of Daedric armor or a Daedric weapon can significantly enhance your combat prowess, allowing you to take on tougher enemies and emerge victorious in challenging encounters. Their unique aesthetic, characterized by jagged edges and a menacing color scheme, also adds to their appeal, making you look like a true force to be reckoned with. But how do you get your hands on these powerful items without spending hours grinding your Smithing skill? That's what we're here to find out.

Daedric armor isn't just for show, guys. It offers some of the best protection in the game, meaning you can soak up more damage before needing to heal. This is super useful when you're facing down dragons, trolls, or even a whole mob of bandits. Plus, let's be honest, looking intimidating can sometimes be half the battle! When enemies see you decked out in Daedric gear, they might think twice before picking a fight.

Daedric weapons are equally impressive. They pack a serious punch, allowing you to dish out massive damage with each swing. Whether you prefer swords, axes, maces, or bows, Daedric weapons are a top-tier choice for any warrior. Imagine facing a dragon with a Daedric sword that crackles with dark energy – epic, right? And it's not just about the raw damage; Daedric weapons also tend to have a higher chance of staggering opponents, giving you an edge in combat.

Now, while crafting Daedric gear through Smithing is one way to obtain it, it requires a significant investment of time and resources. You need to level up your Smithing skill to 90 and acquire the Daedric Smithing perk, which can be a long and tedious process. This involves repeatedly crafting items, gathering materials, and spending skill points. For those who prefer to focus on other aspects of the game, such as exploring dungeons, completing quests, or developing other skills, the Smithing grind can feel like a major distraction. That's why finding alternative methods to acquire Daedric armor and weapons can be a game-changer.

Methods to Obtain Daedric Gear Without Smithing

Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Here are some tried-and-true methods for getting your hands on Daedric armor and weapons without ever touching a forge:

1. The Atronach Forge

The Atronach Forge, located in the Midden beneath the College of Winterhold, is your best friend. This magical forge allows you to create Daedric items by combining various ingredients. You'll need to find the Sigil Stone, which requires a Conjuration skill of 90 and the Conjuration Ritual Spell quest. Once you have the Sigil Stone, you can start crafting Daedric items. The recipes usually involve things like a Daedra Heart, an Ebony weapon or armor piece, and various gems.

The Atronach Forge is a powerful tool for acquiring Daedric equipment, but it requires some preparation and effort. First, you'll need to gain access to the Midden, which is located beneath the College of Winterhold. If you're not already a member of the College, you'll need to complete the First Lessons quest to gain entry. Once inside the Midden, navigate through the various chambers until you reach the Atronach Forge. Activating the Atronach Forge requires specific ingredients, including a Sigil Stone. Obtaining the Sigil Stone requires a Conjuration skill of 90 and completing the Conjuration Ritual Spell quest, which is offered by Phinis Gestor at the College of Winterhold. Once you have the Sigil Stone, you can combine it with other ingredients, such as Daedra Hearts, Ebony weapons or armor pieces, and various gems, to create Daedric items. The specific recipes for each Daedric item can be found online or through experimentation. Using the Atronach Forge may require some trial and error, but it's a reliable way to obtain Daedric gear without relying on Smithing.

2. Dremora Merchant

Once you've completed the Conjuration Ritual Spell quest, you can cast the Conjure Dremora Lord spell. Sometimes, when you summon a Dremora Lord, you can choose to have them act as a merchant. They often sell Daedric items, including weapons and armor. It's a bit random, but worth a shot!

The Dremora Merchant offers a unique opportunity to acquire Daedric items without engaging in Smithing or exploring dangerous dungeons. However, it's important to note that the availability of Daedric items from the Dremora Merchant is somewhat random. Each time you summon a Dremora Lord and choose the merchant option, the items they offer will vary. This means you might not always find the specific Daedric items you're looking for. However, with persistence and a bit of luck, you can eventually acquire a full set of Daedric armor or a powerful Daedric weapon. Keep in mind that the Dremora Merchant will only remain summoned for a limited time, so be sure to browse their inventory and make your purchases quickly. Additionally, the Dremora Merchant requires a significant investment in the Conjuration skill, as you need to be able to cast the Conjure Dremora Lord spell. Nevertheless, the Dremora Merchant provides a convenient and potentially lucrative way to obtain Daedric gear without relying on traditional methods.

3. Loot and Quest Rewards

Keep your eyes peeled! Daedric items can sometimes be found as random loot in chests or as quest rewards, especially at higher levels (usually level 46+). The higher your level, the greater the chance of finding Daedric gear. So, keep exploring those dungeons and completing those quests!

Looting chests and completing quests are fundamental aspects of Skyrim's gameplay, and they also offer opportunities to acquire Daedric gear without Smithing. As you explore dungeons, ruins, and other locations throughout Skyrim, be sure to thoroughly search every chest, container, and hidden alcove. Daedric items can sometimes be found as random loot, especially at higher levels. The higher your level, the greater the chance of encountering Daedric gear in chests and containers. Additionally, keep an eye out for quests that offer Daedric items as rewards. These quests may involve defeating powerful enemies, retrieving rare artifacts, or completing challenging tasks. The rewards for these quests can range from individual Daedric weapons or armor pieces to entire sets of Daedric gear. Completing quests not only provides you with valuable experience and loot but also advances the game's narrative and allows you to immerse yourself in Skyrim's rich lore. By actively exploring and completing quests, you can significantly increase your chances of acquiring Daedric items without relying on Smithing.

4. Black Market

The Dragonborn DLC adds the Black Market ability. Use it to summon a Dremora merchant, and they might have Daedric items for sale. Remember to have some gold with you!

The Black Market ability, introduced in the Dragonborn DLC, provides another avenue for acquiring Daedric items without Smithing. By using the Black Market ability, you can summon a Dremora merchant who may have Daedric items for sale. This merchant offers a variety of goods, including weapons, armor, and other useful items. The availability of Daedric items from the Black Market merchant is somewhat random, so you might not always find what you're looking for. However, with persistence and a bit of luck, you can eventually acquire a full set of Daedric armor or a powerful Daedric weapon. Remember to have sufficient gold with you when summoning the Black Market merchant, as they will only accept payment for their goods. The Black Market ability requires the Dragonborn DLC and can be obtained by completing certain quests on the island of Solstheim. Once you have unlocked the Black Market ability, you can use it to summon the Dremora merchant at any time, providing a convenient way to access Daedric gear without relying on traditional methods.

5. Pickpocketing

This is a risky method but can be rewarding. Some high-level NPCs might have Daedric items in their inventory. Invest in the Pickpocket skill tree and try your luck. Save before attempting, just in case!

Pickpocketing is a high-risk, high-reward method for acquiring Daedric items without Smithing. Some high-level NPCs, such as guards, soldiers, or powerful mages, may possess Daedric weapons or armor in their inventory. By investing in the Pickpocket skill tree, you can increase your chances of successfully stealing these items. However, it's important to note that pickpocketing is considered a crime in Skyrim, and if you are caught, you will face consequences such as fines, imprisonment, or even death. Therefore, it's crucial to exercise caution and take appropriate precautions when attempting to pickpocket Daedric items. Save your game before attempting to pickpocket, so that you can reload if you are caught. Additionally, consider using stealth-enhancing equipment or spells to improve your chances of success. Pickpocketing requires patience, skill, and a bit of luck, but it can be a viable option for acquiring Daedric gear without relying on traditional methods.

Tips and Tricks

• Level Up: The higher your level, the more likely you are to find Daedric items.
• Explore Everywhere: Check every chest, every dungeon, every nook and cranny. You never know where you might find a hidden Daedric artifact.
• Save Often: Especially before attempting risky methods like pickpocketing or summoning Dremora Lords. Save scumming is your friend!
• Join the College of Winterhold: This gives you access to the Atronach Forge and the Conjuration Ritual Spell quest.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! Multiple ways to get your hands on Daedric armor and weapons without spending countless hours grinding your Smithing skill. Whether you prefer delving into dungeons, summoning Dremora Lords, or crafting at the Atronach Forge, there's a method for every playstyle. Now go forth, equip yourself with the finest Daedric gear, and become the Dragonborn Skyrim deserves!

Happy adventuring, and may your loot be ever in your favor!