An off-hand object can be wielded by a character that uses a one handed weapon such a Sword, Axe or Wand. The character cannot gain the effect of an off-hand item when he/she uses a Two handed weapon such as a Bow, Staff, Hammer, or Daggers. On the inventory menu it does, however, become equipped and leaves a free slot.
Off-hand items are split into two categories:
It is common for caster classes in PvP to have a weapon set that includes a shield offhand, for the increased armor it provides.