Gearing question

[Lazsurus]

So having done a lot of looking at diff builds it seems like none ever take advantage of the higher set bonus’s, so is this due to the best options being stat rich getting in multiple 3/4 sets as I rarely see anyone running more than 5 of any set. Trying to figure out the how’s and why’s of theory crafting in this game, is there ever a case to be made for running a full 7 or 8 piece set up?

[Zxul]

In a very specific builds, if you want that +2 mastery on sov to be able to get that spec. Or if you want that 8 sov granted ability that much.

In other words, pretty much never.

[Aethilmar]

I don't know about "pretty much never" but I will say that shield tanks definitely want the 8 piece Sov set for "Leading the Charge" as it can turn what is an ordered withdrawal by the enemy into a full route.

Also for SM (my most geared class) you really do want 6 Sov + whatever because that +2 is needed to reach the best version of of either 2H or SnB. YMMV on other tanks but I suspect that is true there as well.

7 piece Invader is pretty good on a shield Knight (the reflect on block damage is decent enough) if you like roaming around and causing problems; and 7 piece Invader on a WL gives you 10% crit chance on Hunter path which has most of the goodies (Coordinate Strike, Whirling Axe, Slashing Blade, Hack, Lion's Fury). I'm sure there are better combos eventually but that Invader will last you a good long time if needed.