Face & Body Shield Buyer's Guide
Let’s start with a brief history of the Face & Body Shield.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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1
What is the history of face & body shields?
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2
Why do I need a face & body shield?
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3
What are the most commonly available types of face & body shields?
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4
What accessories I can get with a face & body shield?
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5
What rating system does the face & body shields come under?
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6
What are the legal implications of buying/owing a face & body shield?
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7
What are the obsolete face & body shields?
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8
What are the top face & body shield options I should be aware of?
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9
How to make sure your face & body shield fits your requirements?
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10
Are there any face & body shield tips available?
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11
What are the frequently asked questions on face & body shields?
HISTORY OF THE FACE & BODY SHIELDS
We are all driven by primal impulses. Our DNA is designed for survival, which implies that food and shelter are critical and we always want to avoid heavy or pointed objects. People have utilized several materials to defend themselves against various hazards throughout history. Fur was first utilized to make armor and shields thousands of years ago. The usage of wooden and, subsequently, metal shields grew in popularity as civilizations polished the design of their shields.
The initial ballistic shields were formed with pieces of sheet metal soldered together. These were sometimes provided with a tiny, unprotected eye hole, enabling users to see through them. However, it was difficult to wield them since they were so heavy, and the grips on the insides of the handles were shaky. Despite their efficiency, they were difficult to use in tactical situations owing to their lack of vision, high weight, and awkward grabbing options.
The intended use influences the shape and size of the contemporary shield. In this case, shields are offered in a plain square form and are only to be employed when necessary. These shields are frequently square at the base, with indentations on both sides. Because of these indentations, the carrier can return fire while maintaining full shield coverage. These bulletproof shield designs are known as “Ballistic Shields” for both the face and body are intended to be portable and usable in potentially hazardous circumstances.
WHY DO YOU NEED A FACE & BODY SHIELD?
There are various applications of face & body shields and we have provided the rundown in detail:
POLICE APPLICATIONS - When it comes to important periods of conflict involving the security of citizens and authorities, especially when it comes to regulating large groups of people, the ability to observe what is going on is critical. Law enforcement officers must protect their eyesight and shield their faces from chemical agents, missiles, and other volatile materials to defend others. Police shields are light protection devices commonly used by law enforcement officers. They are very long shields that can completely encircle and protect a normal-sized human from the head to the knees.
Smaller ones are also used by the police department, depending on the situation. They are most often used in riot control situations. It is common to use them with batons to disperse large crowds.
MILITARY APPLICATIONS - Personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential for tactical operators, such as military personnel, to complete their jobs successfully. For example, a riot-control or armed conflict situation would undoubtedly need the use of a variety of important personal protective equipment components, such as helmets with face shields and body shields, by the military.
ARMED SECURITY APPLICATIONS - Armed security officers are trained and licensed to carry weapons, which they may use if the people or regions to which they are sent are under extreme stress. Although the face and body shields are often used during riot control operations, they may also benefit people to whom private armed security guards are assigned when the circumstance calls for it.
SELF-DEFENSE APPLICATIONS - Violent crime is a major issue in today’s society. Many Americans want to carry weapons to protect themselves, their friends and family, and their businesses. It is also advised that they get ballistic protection to boost their chances of surviving. A ballistic shield is a better solution for civilians since it can be deployed quickly and easily, offers full coverage, and lowers the risk of blunt injuries.
Police Applications
Military Applications
Armed Security Applications
Self Defense Applications
TYPES OF FACE & BODY SHIELDS
Proper selection and use of face & body shields would definitely saves lives by preventing attacks. Below we have mentioned a few of the types of face & body shields.
BODY SHIELD - 20-36-150
Lexan is a plastic “BODY” shield with an ergonomic grip and an easy-release strap with ergonomically designed hand protection. The ergonomic handles allow two-handed usage in emergency scenarios. These pieces are dielectric. Thus, no electricity can travel through BODY SHIELD - 20-36-150. They may be used with either hand. The broad nylon arm strap is fast and simple to adjust while in use. The shield is well made and of great optical quality and the shield measures 0.150 inches thick, 20 inches long, and 36 inches tall.
ROUND BODY SHIELD - 24-125
This is designed specifically to fit within the trunk of a police vehicle. The offender’s ability to twist his or her body against him or her is limited by the round shape to the advantage of the officer. This spherical Lexan “BODY” shield is 24 inches in diameter and .125 inches thick, with an ergonomic grip and a quick-release strap.
CORRECTIONS FACE SHIELD
This shield has a universal fit face shield/wire screen system that may be fitted to a number of helmets to provide face protection in prisoner and riot situations. An integrated rubber seal at the junction between the helmet and the shield acts as a liquid barrier.
FACE SHIELD 150 - THICK HARD MOUNT
This face shield is referred to as a “Hard Mount” since it is made of 0.150” thick polycarbonate glass. It also has an integrated rubber seal that functions as a liquid barrier between the helmet and the shield.
ACCESSORIES
As such there are no other accessories available for Face & body shields.
FACE & BODY SHIELD RATING SYSTEM
To evaluate the amount of protection a ballistic shield provides, first identify its bulletproof grade. NIJ, which stands for National Institute of Justice, is the standard bulletproof rating. This branch of the United States government is in charge of all Justice Department research and development. If a device has the letters NIJ, it complies with certain national regulations. Any device capable of stopping a gunshot is rated as NIJ Threat Level IIIA. The current lowest level of ballistics material accessible is NIJ IIIA. This grade will exclude the purchase of a standard American firearm. They are often compact and light, allowing them to be carried anywhere.
When you see the NIJ IIIA rating on a ballistic shield, it signifies it can prevent a rifle or shotgun from piercing it. However, this grade is more difficult to achieve and necessitates a thicker material. As a result, the weight to square-inch ratio rises, placing additional pressure on the wielder’s joints.
The NIJ IV rating is for bulletproof shield units capable of stopping armor piercing rifle shots. Because this kind of ballistic protection requires heavy materials, it is seldom portable or hand-held.
LEGAL IMPLICATIONS
Riot shields are currently used in practically every country with a standardized police force, which is almost every country globally. In addition, a significant number of companies produce riot shields, notably those that specialize in the creation of ballistic shields.
They are often employed by cops, SWAT teams, and other law enforcement professionals. When utilized, most cops couple them with a baton to administer a non-lethal hit when required.
Protesters and law enforcement agents increasingly use riot shields during rallies and disturbances. In addition, some demonstrators employ riot shields similar to those used by law enforcement authorities. Many people, however, create their riot shields out of improvised materials such as wood, scrap metal, or plastic barrels found about the house.
There are currently no laws barring the ownership of a riot shield in its totality. Therefore, ballistic shields should not be forbidden as long as civilians carry ballistic vests.
On the other hand, checking your state laws would be valuable if there is anything you need to know. Riot shields may be quite handy in protecting oneself from rubber bullets and batons, among other things.
OBSOLETE FACE & BODY SHIELDS
Every product gets obsolete at some point in time and face & body shields are of no exception.
The Roman Republic and later the Roman Empire used the Scutum, a rectangular shield. It was a big heavy shield that protected the bearer from all sides. It was utilized as a shield wall or in testudo formations. Its persistence made it practically inaccessible by Roman soldiers. Later, crossbowmen utilized them as cover when reloading their crossbows. The rectangular shields were made of bronze or iron-coated wood. The shield’s size and weight needed a strongman to handle it.
The galea, or helmet, was an essential Roman piece. Roman troops used it to shield their heads. Some gladiators fought with bronze helmets. There were several types of Roman legions and cavalry divisions. It had either central plumes or detachable U-shaped holders on the back. These crests were used to differentiate infantry battalions throughout the battle.
The riot and ballistic shields are replicas of the antique Roman body or face shield and may be considered the forerunners of today’s shields.
TOP FACE & BODY SHIELD OPTIONS
There are several options of face & body shields available based on your requirement and use. We have listed a few below:
DK6 X 250AF FACE SHIELD
This universal headband face shield system, which comes in a number of colors, is compatible with all military helmets that are compatible with the ACH, MICH, and PASGT kinds of military helmets. Its integrated rubber seal functions as a liquid barrier between the helmet and the shield, keeping both clean. The shield may be disengaged with a single wrist movement in either stowed or deployed mode. In addition, shield pivot and lock mechanisms may be moved to the right or left side of the shield to meet personal preferences.
RIOT FACE SHIELD - ANTI FOG
In riots, face shield systems with universal fit may be worn over a variety of helmets to give facial protection while on the job. There is a liquid barrier created by an integrated rubber seal located at the point of contact between the helmet and the shield. The shield may be released with a single wrist movement in either the stowed or deployed mode. Shield pivot and lock mechanisms may be relocated to either the right or left side of the shield to accommodate individual preferences. Compared to other protective helmets on the market, the distinctive heavy gauge shield with a thickness of 0.250” delivers unparalleled fit and performance thanks to its unusual thick gauge construction. Affixing it is simple and secure, and it may be removed with little difficulty if required. NIJ 0104.02 certification for police use has been obtained, and a National Stock Number has been granted for use by the federal government and military.
CAPTURE SHIELDS
Cell extraction and capture are the primary functions of this equipment. On the outside of the shield, there are two grips to hold onto. A capture shield with ergonomic features that allows it to be handled in one hand is described here. A radius has been constructed into the corners of this 0.150” thick, 24” wide, and 36” tall piece of metal. In emergencies, the ergonomic handle enables two-handed use due to its design. This product’s handle and break-away strap are made of dielectric material to prevent electrical pass through and may be used with either the left or right hand, depending on the user’s preference. While in use, the broad nylon arm strap may be readily adjusted with only one hand, thanks to its wide design. The visual quality of the shield and the craftsmanship of the shield are both of the highest grades.
BODY SHIELD - 20-36-125
The item’s body is made of plastic, namely Lexan, and it has an ergonomic handle and a fast-release strap. The body shield is 20 by 36 inches and measures 20 by 125 inches in total. Body armor has ergonomic characteristics that make it easy to carry in hand. The shield is 20 inches wide by 36 inches long and is 1/8 inch thick.” The height and breadth of this construction are highest at the top, while the radius is largest at the bottom.
HOW TO MAKE SURE YOUR FACE & BODY SHIELD FIT YOUR REQUIREMENTS?
Shields are manufactured in a range of sizes and compositions to meet the tactical needs of the person to utilize them. Having a clear understanding of the circumstances you are about to face will make all the difference in deciding which ballistic shield to use to defend yourself. It is much easier to make this option if you are aware of the adversary’s weapons.
Most law enforcement officers will automatically use NIJ IIIA bulletproof shield units and will only deploy the NIJ IV shields when the circumstance necessitates it.
Governments worldwide depend on ballistic shields to protect dangerous missiles from harming soldiers and law enforcement officers. These shield units come in various sizes, shapes, and designs, with each one meant to serve a unique purpose. Check out our website for your face and body shield options.
FACE & BODY SHIELD TIPS
There are several aspects to consider while purchasing shields. Some key tactics to practice and remember are as follows:
- It is vital to have an aggressive attitude when operating and moving with your ballistic shield to be as safe as possible. Therefore, you should focus on being completely hidden behind the shield, with your non-dominant hand holding it steady and pointing it straight towards the adversary, as indicated above.
- When choosing a ballistic shield with viewports, the viewports must give enough vision. Furthermore, ensure that the viewports provide the same level of ballistic protection as the remainder of the shield. This is done to prevent unintentional penetration.
- If it is for police or military purposes make sure you get a ballistic face shield.
FACE & BODY SHIELDS FAQS
Here are the most frequently asked questions compiled just for you:
CONCLUSION
Every day, law enforcement officials work diligently to protect and serve our country’s residents. They are the foundation of our democracy. Yet, daily, they jeopardize their safety for the sake of this cause. Consequently, to limit the possibility of physical damage, they deserve the highest level of protection presently available to them. Therefore, body and face shields must be worn in addition to the standard personal protective equipment to protect the most vulnerable and targeted regions of their bodies.
However, they may also be employed by civilians in scenarios such as armed trespasses, failed burglaries, store robberies, and house invasions, to mention a few.
To get the most out of a product, making the best possible option is also critical when purchasing it. That is why Best Safety Apparel handles all of your difficulties and is concerned with supplying you with various solutions to fit your individual security needs.
