Decreasing shield weight increases the chance of block stuns and garentees crush through(sometimes little to no damage occurs when close enough to hammer and with a heavy shield) so, those "buffs" are actually major nerfs.
Havnt noticed a forcefield with 4-5 shield skill using anything except huscarl. I often get hit by side swings, aimed arrows, jumping throwers, unless I face the attack direction. Perhaps due to server lag my opponent doesn't see my quick mouse jerk to get the block. (Pssst, Nother reason to not buff agi, server can't keep up and you will have 6-8 shield skill shielders)
So, the problem isn't shields. It's the huscarl and dinner plate.....just fix those models.
Something that decreases shield penalties for looms would be nice. Or maybe the ability to get a shield bash(does some blunt dmg based on shield weight and geometry(has a boss, or metal edges), and player can't move) that keeps guard up throughout the bash(maybe knockdown chance based on shield weight and str). (Kick currently drops guard, no knockdown, and minuscule damage)
Definately would enhance shielders gameplay.
Maybe a shield parry, tapping rmb while facing correct direction parries attack.
Causes polestagger effect.
The presented theory here is, the more offensive capability you give shielders. The easier it will be to kill them because they will be more wreckless.