These shields are primarily used as portable cover for crossbowmen and archers, usually using either a ground spike or a fold-out stand.

Properties

Defensive Position. You may use your action to place your shield on the ground by extending the fold-out stand. You forfeit the standard benefits of the shield, and if you have another shield with you, you can draw this as part of the same action. Equipping the shield once again can be done as free object interaction.

• Any creature within 5ft. benefits from half-cover
  (which grants +2 AC and +2 to DEX saves)

• Being hit from behind does not provide any bonuses.