While shields are usually used for protective purposes, they can also be used as weapons. By fooling your opponent into thinking that you are hiding behind the shield, you can catch him off-balance. Many skilled fighters can use their shield to knock their foes to the ground. Some shields are light enough that you can actually swing them, using them as a bludgeon. The more common approach is to use your weight and push the shield into the opponent, knocking him to the ground if possible.