Weapon Choice - Staff v. 1h & Off-hand

[Fradheal 0]

I am a holy priest with a shadow off-spec. My question deals with the game mechanics. Are there game mechanics that make it wiser to use a 2h staff vs. a 1h weapon & and off-hand item other than the just the sheer numerical benefit you get from the items. I believe I was told when I started out that when healing, it is better to use a 2h staff, but for DPS as shadow a 1H and off-hand item was better. Thanks for the help and I love the guides!

[Peelyon 416]

I'm not sure that there is really any preference other than the stats you can get on them. Obviously the spell power on the staff or the 1h is v.important. Don't forget when taking into account the stat weightings to add in the 'bonus' enchant of intellect on off hand.

I'm pretty certain however that there are no mechanical differences other than visual / transmog effects. Hope that helps!

[Fradheal 0]

Perfect thanks! It seems to me with the enchants available that a spell blade and a good off-hand item with enchants is going to always net more stats.

[SekseGeekNation 0]

I'm not sure that there is really any preference other than the stats you can get on them. Obviously the spell power on the staff or the 1h is v.important. Don't forget when taking into account the stat weightings to add in the 'bonus' enchant of intellect on off hand.

I'm pretty certain however that there are no mechanical differences other than visual / transmog effects. Hope that helps!

This is pretty much all to be said. Look at the stats who get from both and see which one is the best for you.