Shields have been used since prehistoric times, beginning with hunters who used them both for concealment and protection against the dangerous megafauna they engaged with handheld weapons like clubs, axes, and spears. Having proven themselves to be highly effective, they made their way onto the battlefields in hand-to-hand combat and as cover against arrows and other missiles of the day. They fell out of favor for modern hunters, but they've remained on the battlefield to this day. They are also used by law enforcement and prison guards as less-than-lethal tools for riot control, clearing rooms, and isolating and immobilizing combatants. They're used in both formations and one-on-one encounters, and can also be used for offensive as well as defensive purposes.
Riot shields are not generally bulletproof, as they're made of clear polycarbonate and similar plastics. They're built to withstand blows from sticks and clubs, and thrown missiles like rocks. They may slow down a bullet a little bit, improving the performance of body armor typically worn by police and military, but this should not be counted on.
Ballistic shields aka tactical shields are a stronger variation that looks somewhat similar to riot shields but are constructed from heavier materials that stop or deflect bullets. Of course, it's hard to truly call anything "bulletproof" as there are a lot of variables like distance from the firearm, caliber, etc. However, ballistic shields are definitely bullet-resistant and are employed by police and military personnel for situations where a riot shield is not going to be up to the task.
In the United States, a riot shield is not restricted and can be purchased by law-abiding citizens. However, felons can be and are restricted from owning them as they can fall under restrictions on body armor as outlined in federal law. There may be some areas where laws restrict the use or carrying of riot shields by civilians, so it's important to check all of your local regulations regarding shields before you buy one.
Just like riot shields, ballistic shields can generally be purchased by law-abiding citizens. Felons may be restricted from possessing them, and there may be some areas where laws restrict the use or carrying of riot shields by civilians, so it's important to check all of your local regulations regarding shields before you buy one.
Shop at OpticsPlanet.com to find riot shields and ballistic shields for sale from top brands like United Shield, Premier Crown, and Rothco. As a money-saving bonus to our customers, most orders over $49.00 get FREE SHIPPING! We have plenty of articles on tactical equipment and a whole bunch of other subjects in our How-To Guides and Articles. If you ever have any questions, reach out and contact us to speak to one of our in-house product experts.
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