Bo,
While checking shields at WPO this year I came across an interesting problem:
Two of the shields I tested had metal handles for the hand grip. Feeling they were unsafe, I discussed the problem with Thorn(?) and Morpheus, who both agreed that for safety the shields should fail. The safety issue was that if one were to reach beyond another fighter and catch them with the handle (such as in the shoulder, or arm), they could seriously hurt them. Thorn(?) demonstrated this on me, and I assure you that it hurt like heck for the rest of the day, or at least up until the ibuprofen kicked in.
So, my point. I cannot post in the Rules Discussion and Development board, but I feel that this is an important point that should be brought up. With the popularity of solid shield handles, it's only a matter of time before more of these solid metal handles make their way onto the field. Would you be able to post in my stead, as I lack the authority to do so? If you'd be uncomfortable doing so, that's perfectly fine, and I can post it in another board, and ask an admin to move it for me later.
Many Thanks,
Thurat of Knightfall