if I have a shield on one arm/hand, and a gauntlet on the other, can I cast arcane spells? It seems like I should be able to since I am technically still "unarmed" but thought I should check, since I could see the argument that a gauntlet would reduce finger mobility, etc.

Does wearing a gauntlet count as having a hand free for spell casting purposes?

Gauntlet uses Melee Unarmed, so I see no issue with it.

I could also see the argument going either way, so I would probably let you do it unless it became an obvious abuse of rules. but I'd allow it at my tables in general.

so my answer is Your Mileage May Vary.

I don't think going by using Melee (Unarmed) is a good guide for if it counts as a free hand. Katar also uses Melee (Unarmed). For that matter, Tail Bracer also uses Melee (Unarmed) though claiming a tail counts as a free hand seems like stretching things just a bit far.

Can you wiggle your fingers without dropping something? Free. Just my 2 cents.

I am nearly certain it counts as a free hand. I base this in part on the description of the gauntlet of immaculate defense in FiM I.

With a sweep of his hat,

Paul