This shield might not be as imposing as some others, but the Buckler Shield packs quite a punch -- sometimes literally! While most shields are regarded as purely for protection against both melee and ranged attacks, the Buckler goes hand-in-hand with the wielder's weapon of choice as both an attacking device (ever been hit in the face by a shield?) and as a defensive measure to keep the opponent off guard. It does suffer against ranged weapons due to the smaller size of a Buckler, but it more then makes up for it in hand-to-hand combat. But I doubt your Light Infantrymen will care, especially since they get to wear sweet headgear like the Nasal Helm, Kettle Helm or, if they measure up, the Great Helm.