I tried using the shield, but it just insn't resilient enough, I dont have many skill points yet so that might be the problem.  But it would be nice to use the twin swords from the assasin.  Those are just too weak and don't do enough damage to the cc walkers.  I am being forced to use the autogun on that toon to deal with everything.  I just find the attack skills a bit lacking at the moment.