Level 1 Shield?

[DurtiMonkeyToe]

No. By just equipping a shield you get the same amount of shield sp that you would for your weapon sp, so you can equip ANY shield and start leveling up regardless.

Also, the lowest level shield in the game is level 5.

[Orrick]

so I can equip weapons even if they're higher than my level?

[Reika]

yea, but it isnt a very good thing to do. but if you cant find anything your rank, go the next higher rank up, but dont go too far that or your damage and accuracy will be gimped.