If you want to use a shield with 100% phys block like Heater shield, swap out Gauntlets of Thorns for Iron Bracelet. It lets you keep 61 poise for less weight. I like the Gauntlets of Thorns because it lets you stun people with no poise just by rolling at them and I like the parry animation. Most of the time your shield is on your back anyway so it doesn't really matter.
61 poise is there so you can poise through pretty much every attack in the game, even a black flame to the face.
Mask of the mother gives you an extra 200 HP to work with. Super good.
I'll be checking up on this build so leave a comment if you as a question.
