**How to Equip Medium and Heavy Shields in ARC Raiders**
In ARC Raiders, there are certain restrictions when it comes to equipping Medium and Heavy shields. Initially, you’ll only have access to Light shields, but as you progress, you’ll unlock Medium shields. However, you can’t simply equip these new shields right away; you’ll need an additional piece of specialized tech.
### Shield Compatibility and Augments
Medium and Heavy shields can only be equipped if your character has an Augment that allows them. Most early-game Augments support only Light Shield Compatibility, which means you’re limited to equipping Light shields at the start.
As you advance, you’ll acquire better Augments that feature Shield Compatibility for Light, Medium, and Heavy shields. To equip a Medium or Heavy shield, make sure you:
1. Equip an Augment that offers the desired Shield Compatibility.
2. Then, select and equip the shield you want.
### Benefits and Trade-Offs
Upgrading to Medium or Heavy shields improves your defense significantly. These shields have a higher charge capacity, providing more shield strength, and offer better damage reduction, helping you take less damage during combat.
However, there is a trade-off: the heavier the shield, the more it affects your movement speed. To counteract this penalty, invest in the **Used to the Weight** skill located in the Conditioning branch of the Skill Tree. This skill helps you maintain mobility even when carrying heavier shields.
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By strategically upgrading your Augments and skills, you can take advantage of stronger shields to survive tougher encounters in ARC Raiders.
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146677/equip-medium-heavy-shields-arc-raiders
