Touch spells and combat maneuvers

[Lord Dynel]

Yes, I apparently am on a touch spell kick.

In the PHB, it states that, "...magical rings, robes or other protective devices and spells affect armor class for touch attacks." (page 132, 5th printing)

Okay, it doesn't state that effects like the Evade or Dodge combat maneuvers can be applied to touch attacks...at least not that I could find. I'm thinking I would allow these, as I see no reason not to. I would also allow flank and rear attack modifiers for touch spells, too. I don't think it upsets game balance at all, especially considering how easy it is for touch spells to hit.

I can see it now...the party wizard casts his acid arrow spell, only to have to kobold activate an Evade maneuver. Good times!

What say you all? Allow or not?

[Demiurge]

I say yes, they would give a bonus to touch AC.

[Treebore]

Since those maneuvers are related to moving, so would be DEX related, I'd have to say they count.

[Arduin]

I'm with Treebore as to allowing and, the reasoning behind the decision.

[Go0gleplex]

I've always played that everything counts against touch attacks except the armor/shield bonuses. They can't actually protect you from merely being touched but other things like dodging and magic can offer some defense. I think it was 2nd ed D&D that there was some real discussion and that this was what came of that as well in official channels. Too long ago to remember clearly however.