Most advices consider a 1 vs 1 duel configuration. But most of the time it's not the case. In the melee you don't have the time to dance around your opponent for 1 or 2 minutes. This is 1 hit or die.
So, now i'm a 30/9 shielder with a MW iron war axe ( 40 cut...). I wait the good opportunity, I strike, he dies ( or shield breaks).
My lvl 3 shield is enough. I'm slow but i fight in group, so I don't care being surrounded. Anyway I carry a cheap spear against cav or long swords. 30 pierce at 10 PS hurts a lot.
I like to feel powaa !