How to Get the Thorns Enchantment

Thorns is an Enchantment in Minecraft. Read on to learn more about Thorns, what gear you can equip it with, how to get it, and how to use it.

Thorns Overview

Thorns Basic Information

Thorns Compatible Gear

Compatible Gear
Helmet	Chestplate
Leggings	Boots

How to Get Thorns

Obtain using Enchanting Tables

Enlarge

The most common way to obtain Thorns is through an Enchanting Table. You'll need XP and Lapis Lazuli to enchant an item.

Use Bookshelves to increase enchantment levels

Enlarge

Placing bookshelves around the Enchanting Table will increase the possible enchantment levels of an item. There must be one block of air between a bookshelf and the Enchanting Table for this to work.

Obtain by Fishing

Head out into open water and use your Fishing Rod to catch items with Thorns enchantments. The Luck of the Sea enchant will increase your chances of catching enchanted items.

Loot from Chests

Enlarge

You'll find Thorns in Treasure Chests in structures and dungeons around the world. Make sure you're properly equipped with armor and weapons since these areas will be infested with Mobs.

Trade with Villagers

Enlarge

You'll be able to trade items with villagers to obtain Thorns. Librarians will be your best bet since you can trade Emeralds for enchantments even at Novice levels.

You'll have to level up other Villager types to obtain their enchanted stock.

How to Use Thorns

Reflect Enemy Damage

With the Thorns enchantment, you're able to inflict anywhere from 1-4 damage, equivalent to half a heart to two hearts, to enemies who attack you. Keep in mind the damage instance from Thorns won't always occur, but higher levels in it will increase its chances.

Wearing more items with the Thorns enchantment further increases the average damage reflected as well as the chance of inflicting maximum damage.

Can Knock Enemies Back

This is great to use when surrounded by enemies since it also applies a knockback effect, giving you space to escape or reposition.

Causes Increased Durability Damage

Keep in mind that the Thorns enchantment causes your gear to take 2 extra points of Durability damage, so they will break quicker than usual. You can apply Unbreaking to your gear to lessen the chance of this occurring.
How to Get the Unbreaking Enchantment

Related Guides

Enchanting Guide: List of All Enchantments

List of All Enchantments