There's one thing that is worth knowing, it's that all round shields have ghost coverage, except the steel shield maybe. Other shields usually have slightly less coverage than what their model suggests, except above the shield. afaik the head is allways protected.
not true anymore for all shields since the last 2 patches.
pre .222, i agree there was not a chance that anyone could get a headshot f.e. at a huscarl, meanwhile i got those on regular base. In the last week 4 times. Sounds not often, still they make a f.... headshot at a huscarl carrier. I got also Bolts which went through my shield now and the angle from where i get shot and as well hit by sword has been reduced.
And as far as i know most shields got a hp nerf or reduction in cover or body armor compared to .220.