hi, when using "Protect Item Use", others can still use shields in the claim. searched for duplicate issues but found nothing relating to shields.

i know this might be a bit odd but i'm trying to use it with wireless redstone (calibrated sculk sensors level 3 tuning) to make a secure and hidden bunker behind a nondescript wall in the claim.

Weapons and shields are allowed by default because people should be able to defend themselves against mobs.
You can try adding items to additionalBannedItems in openpartiesandclaims-server.toml.

good point, i didn't realise how many options were classified this way

would it be possible to instead add the ability to set permissions for activating calibrated sculk sensors as a separate class, like buttons? alternatively, where would i go about adding that in the config?

You can't configure that right now. It's a planned feature: #624