My char is 1h/shield AND xbow.
As a shield user, a shield is absolutely helpful against ranged. Almost OP. It, like, blocks the arrow.
As a ranged user, shields absolutely block my shit. Seeing one makes me choose a different target, or waste my bolt shooting a piece of wood.
If you can afford IF in your build, you can afford a decent shield in your build.
If you don't put IF or shield skill in your build, you're asking to die regardless.