Whether you call them bunker shields, ballistic blankets, or ballistic shields, they remain a major obstacle to armed resistance. Ballistic shields are mainly used by foot soldiers or mobile soldiers, as they are designed specifically to stop bullets and large projectiles. SWAT, special ops, and emergency response teams can all use ballistic shields depending on their mission. To fight off threats quickly, ballistic shields are used around the world. There are a variety of situations in which ballistic shields are used, including high-risk search warrants, raids on drug houses, and active shooter situations.
It is often necessary to use ballistic shields to protect soldiers or other bearers in a wide variety of situations. However, the shield has been carrying a burdensome weight for a long time now. Over the last few years, ballistic shields have undergone several important modifications. The modifications largely aim to improve shield performance within certain applications. However, additional work is being done on the matter of reducing the weight of the shield without compromising its ballistic capability.
Previously, it was difficult to use ballistic shields due to their weight. It was difficult to carry them for long periods of time because of this. The bearer’s speed and mobility are negatively impacted by its heavyweight since it significantly reduces their speed and mobility. In cases where the bearer is required to cover a large area quickly, this effect is more pronounced.
Thanks to the introduction of ballistic materials such as hybrid composites, carbon fiber, Kevlar, and ceramic, there has been a significant reduction in the ballistic shield weight. For instance, Level III shields went from 50 lbs. (23 kg) to 14 lbs. (6 kg) in 10 years. With this, officers can have more protection, more mobility, and less weight.
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