by Tordek » Sun Feb 03, 2013 5:41 am
As someone who has more shields than weapons, ill drop in my input on this. If you are looking for what will purely improve your fighting technique, I would say 28" round strap. Punch is also an option but i've been rocking strap shields for 4 years, just picked up a punch recently, and can say the training with the strap has been extremely beneficial. Below is what Ive learned/noticed about shields over the years
Now, that's the best all around shield you can use that will improve your technique as your fight with it. Other types are better in certain situations.
Tower shield, most possible defense.
Kite shield, good defense, lighter and more agile than a tower, less sword encumbrance, looses the shoulder protection that Towers offer.
Buckler, often best when using something with two hands, usually for arrows, or speed training your hands.
Heater, if your not a night you might get flack for it. Encumbers your sword life the tower, excellent torso protections but not much for legs. Easier to use when legged than a tower shield, probably the most annoying to fight when the owner is legged.
Rectangular (mini tower) I have almost always seen this one picked up by flow fighters when they want more protections, never seen one with a strap, always have been punches. some shield fighters pick them up and use nothing else. They offer a great hybrid between defense and offense because they can be positioned to protect the torso like a tower, but can also be moved out of the way to not get in the way of yourself. I would recommend this if you don't go for a round.
As for core/core less. I will never build a strap shield without a core. When you construct the shield you have to think about how exactly your going to fight with it. Your arm can hold a decent bit of weight when strapped properly, and that weight can be a big advantage mid fight, because your shield will be less likely to move when struck or kicked. It will however wear you out faster and be slower for you to move. Great for practice and muscle building, but not at events.
As for core less shields, I would build them as punches using plank 4lb foam (ask around, its great stuff) with oblong handles your going to want these light so that they are agile, and because your holding the weight with essentially your wrist. The oblong handles allow you to pivot the shield. this can allow you to trap your opponents weapon/shield/arm or whatever your looking to lock up.
I realize this was rather lengthy, and its not all the info i have on shields, but it should be enough to get you on your way. I advise that you go to youtube and watch some combat technique videos for shields and determine what will be best for your personal fighting style.
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