What's Better Shield Dept.

GLD 21 using a Dated HQ Square Ash shield.
Block Str 19, Block rate 63.

I can buy a Bronze Scutum.
Block Str 45 (+26), Block rate 14 (-49).
The Scutum has stats. STR +1, Parry +1.

Or, what's it all mean?

Old scutum joke: "You don't really block with them, just kinda scutum from side to side." Sure looks that way don't it?

stick with the small shield size the circle 1 even if block strength is weak your STR will help out

Im gonna hijack the thread. We can turn it into a shield comparison thread,not just the OP one :p

As a level 35 PLD what shield should I be using? And what size shield is the generally accepted size?

Preferably both unique and purchasable options :x

I see most plds using small shields in my raids

Swapped to a shield approximately 10 levels higher than I had. Went from a scutum to a bucklet,never looking back till I get my relic!

I just use whatever highest level I can get at the time.

But to answer op, the higher block rate one will smooth out incoming damage so it will be more predictable for your healers. Having a higher average damage reduction may not always be the best in this situation, something to think about.