Armor Express Riot Shield Bs-2 Review

Worth the Money? My Take on the Armor Express Riot Shield 20x36inch Bs-2

The Armor Express Riot Shield 20x36inch Bs-2 isn’t your everyday piece of tactical gear; it’s a specialized tool designed for a specific, high-stakes purpose. From the moment I first laid eyes on it, I knew this wasn’t some flimsy piece of plastic. It’s a serious piece of equipment made by Armor Express, built to withstand serious abuse.

I’ve spent years in the field, witnessing firsthand the chaos and dangers of crowd control scenarios. When a local law enforcement agency requested my input on selecting new riot shields, I knew I had to get my hands on the Armor Express Riot Shield 20x36inch Bs-2 for testing.

Unboxing the shield was a stark reminder of its purpose. The sheer size, 20″x36″, commands respect, and the clear polycarbonate immediately conveyed a sense of serious protection. The weight, while substantial, felt manageable for its dimensions, suggesting a good balance between protection and maneuverability.

Compared to some lighter, less robust shields I’ve seen, the Armor Express Riot Shield 20x36inch Bs-2 felt like a significant upgrade. I specifically chose this model over other options due to Armor Express’s reputation for quality and durability. My initial excitement stemmed from the potential to provide officers with a reliable tool that could make a real difference in volatile situations.

Real-World Testing: Putting Armor Express Riot Shield 20x36inch Bs-2 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground wasn’t an actual riot, thankfully, but a controlled training environment. We simulated various crowd control scenarios, including thrown objects, pushing, and close-quarters confrontations. The Armor Express Riot Shield 20x36inch Bs-2 performed admirably.

The clear design provided excellent visibility, crucial for maintaining situational awareness. Even in simulated low-light conditions, the clarity remained impressive. The shield provided a solid barrier against simulated projectiles, with no signs of cracking or deformation.

Initially, officers needed to adjust to the shield’s weight and size, especially when transitioning between stances. However, after a few hours of drills, they adapted quickly. One surprising aspect was the shield’s ability to deflect water and other liquids, maintaining a clear field of vision even when sprayed.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of intensive training, the Armor Express Riot Shield 20x36inch Bs-2 continued to impress. The shield showed minimal signs of wear and tear, despite repeated impacts and abrasions. The polycarbonate construction proved incredibly resilient.

Maintaining the shield was relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with mild soap and water. Compared to other riot shields I’ve used, this one seemed far less prone to scratching and clouding. It consistently outperformed expectations, providing a reliable and durable protective barrier.

Breaking Down the Features of Armor Express Riot Shield 20x36inch Bs-2

Specifications

The Armor Express Riot Shield 20x36inch Bs-2 boasts several key specifications. Its dimensions are 20 inches in width and 36 inches in length, offering substantial coverage. The shield is constructed from durable, clear polycarbonate, providing excellent visibility and impact resistance.

The clear color is crucial for maintaining situational awareness in crowd control scenarios. The shield’s primary application is riot control, making it an essential tool for law enforcement and security personnel. These specifications are vital because they directly impact the shield’s ability to protect the user while allowing them to effectively assess and respond to threats.

Performance & Functionality

The Armor Express Riot Shield 20x36inch Bs-2 excels at providing a protective barrier against thrown objects and physical assaults. Its large surface area offers ample coverage, while the clear polycarbonate allows for unobstructed vision. The shield is generally easy to maneuver, though its size and weight require some adjustment.

The shield’s primary strength lies in its durability and impact resistance. One potential area for improvement might be the handle design, which could benefit from enhanced ergonomics for extended use. Overall, it meets expectations for a riot shield of this caliber.

Design & Ergonomics

The shield’s rectangular design maximizes coverage while maintaining a relatively low profile. The high-quality polycarbonate provides excellent impact resistance without adding excessive weight. The handle is designed for a secure grip, though some users might find it less comfortable during prolonged use.

While user-friendly in its basic function, the shield requires practice to effectively maneuver in dynamic situations. The weight distribution is well-balanced, minimizing fatigue.

Durability & Maintenance

The Armor Express Riot Shield 20x36inch Bs-2 is built to last, even under harsh conditions. Its robust polycarbonate construction is highly resistant to cracking, shattering, and abrasions. Simple cleaning with soap and water is usually sufficient for maintenance.

Repairing significant damage might require specialized tools and materials, but routine maintenance is straightforward. Its robust design should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Armor Express Riot Shield 20x36inch Bs-2 comes standard with a handle designed for a secure grip. Customization options are somewhat limited, focusing primarily on handle modifications and potentially adding a shield-mounted light. The handle can often be swapped for aftermarket alternatives that offer better ergonomics.

While not specifically designed for accessories from other brands, some users have successfully adapted universal mounting systems for attaching lights or other devices. Further customization options include adding decals or markings for identification purposes. This allows for better unit cohesion and accountability in the field.

Pros and Cons of Armor Express Riot Shield 20x36inch Bs-2

Who Should Buy Armor Express Riot Shield 20x36inch Bs-2?

The Armor Express Riot Shield 20x36inch Bs-2 is perfect for law enforcement agencies, security personnel, and anyone involved in crowd control or riot situations. It’s also suitable for private security firms operating in high-risk environments. Those requiring robust protection and clear visibility will benefit most from this shield.

Individuals seeking a lightweight, easily portable shield for personal defense might want to consider other options. A must-have accessory would be a comfortable, ergonomic handle replacement to maximize usability during prolonged operations. Consider a padded handle for increased comfort.

Conclusion on Armor Express Riot Shield 20x36inch Bs-2

The Armor Express Riot Shield 20x36inch Bs-2 is a well-built, durable, and effective tool for riot control and crowd management. While the $299.99 price tag might seem steep, the value is justified by its robust construction and reliable performance. I would definitely recommend it to any agency or organization seeking a dependable riot shield.

Its combination of durability, visibility, and manageable weight makes it a worthwhile investment for protecting personnel in high-risk situations. Invest in the Armor Express Riot Shield 20x36inch Bs-2 and give your team the confidence they need to face challenging situations head-on.