Bucklers

So you want to get an AC boost and the option to TWF from a mundane item. This right here is exactly the kind of thing they don’t want to do, because it’s such an optimized pick. As things stand, DEX Fighters can TWF for an additional chance to crit, trigger on hit effects, etc. or go Dueling and a shield for about the same dpr with less spike potential but +2 AC. Or you can get all the perks of TWF and most of the AC benefits of the other. There’s a nominal trade off in net AC, but I expect most number crunchers would weigh it as coming out ahead. Note that the old Dual Wielder feat gave a +1 AC but that perk is conspicuously absent in 2024.

And it simply becomes mandatory equipment for any ranged Fighters if they can get an AC boost at no penalty.

Quote from Deyric >>

Literally historical art of some archers carrying them.

They would carry a side-sword, too. Both to draw when the enemy got close. Bucklers were small and convenient carry when not in use. They wouldn't have been wielding a buckler while shooting arrows, and they wouldn't have been shooting arrows in melee.