This magical item endows the wearer with certain powers akin to the unique abilities of the Umber Hulk race. Upon mental command, the wearer is surrounded with a vague 3D outline strongly resembling an umber hulk. This outline appears similar to a disbelieved illusion, or what one would see viewing a polymorphed umber hulk thru a Gem of Seeing.

For up to one hour per day, the bracers grant the wearer with the special movement form of an umber hulk. The wearer can dig thru 60' of earth per turn, or 10' per turn of stone. If a tunnel usable by others is desired, the movement rate thru earth must be slowed to 30' per turn to prevent collapsing; tunnels thru stone are more stable and are passable at the above MR). The bracers do not grant the Confusion gaze of umber hulks, nor a method of sensing thru stone or earth; this device is often supplemented with a Ring of X-Ray Vision.

The umber hulk outline is immaterial to non-earth substances. Otherwise, it is effective in attacking earthen creatures, such as xorn, earth elementals, etc. Against such creatures, the wearer may attack twice per round, doing 3d4 hp damage per successful hit. The wearer uses his normal THAC0 in such attacks. The wearer may also attempt to parry earthen attacks (such as thrown boulders).