Categories of Bulletproof Shields

As the name implies, a bulletproof shield is a shield with certain bulletproof capabilities. Traditional bulletproof shields are arc-shaped sheet objects in a rectangular shape, and usually have handles on the back for easy handholding. When resisting an enemy's attack, simply lifting the shield and placing it in front of the user can cover the head and body, thus providing comprehensive protection for the user. However, with the continuous progress of the protective industry, various protective products are constantly evolving, making continuous progress in terms of functions, appearance, and design for use, becoming more and more suitable for various usage scenarios and conforming to human usage habits.

Currently, there are many materials that can be used to make bulletproof shields, including Kevlar, polyethylene, ceramics, and steel plates, etc.

Bulletproof shields are generally classified according to their dimensions, and can be divided into ultra-small (450mm×650mm), small (550mm×650mm), medium (550mm×1000mm), large (600mm×1300mm), and extra-large (600mm×1750mm). Bulletproof shields also have strict protection standards. The National Institute of Justice in the United States has set seven levels for bulletproof shields - Level I, Level IIA, Level II, Level IIIA, Level III, Level IV, and Special Level. Level I can protect against 0.22-inch pistol bullets and 0.38-inch special pistol bullets; Level IIA can protect against 0.357-inch Magnum bullets and 9mm pistol bullets (types with lower muzzle velocities, such as 0.380-inch ACP bullets); Level II can protect against 0.357-inch Magnum bullets and 9mm pistol bullets (types with higher muzzle velocities, such as 9mm Parabellum bullets); Level IIIA can protect against 0.44-inch Magnum bullets and shots from 9mm submachine guns; Level III can protect against 0.308-inch Winchester full metal jacket bullets and 7.62×39mm bullets; Level IV can protect against 0.30-06-inch bullets, armor-piercing bullets of 7.62mm NATO standard bullets, and 7.62×54mmR bullets; the Special Level is customized for special bullets. SWAT teams have many opportunities to use bulletproof shields. But since SWAT teams mostly use medium-sized bulletproof shields, sometimes with tactical lights added, they are basically of Level IIIA, and Level III may also be used when necessary, but there is a significant difference in the total mass between the two.

In terms of appearance and design, they can be divided into ordinary handheld bulletproof shields, foldable bulletproof shields, briefcase-style bulletproof shields, ladder-style bulletproof shields, and cart-mounted bulletproof shields.

Handheld Shields

Handheld shields are usually equipped with 2 handles on the back, which can be used by both left-handed and right-handed users. They are also equipped with bulletproof glass observation windows or peepholes for easy observation of the external situation. Handheld shields are mainly suitable for combat scenarios with complex terrains. For example, handheld bulletproof shields are more flexible to use in narrow stairs or passages, and can also be better coordinated with weapons such as guns.

Cart-mounted Bulletproof Shields

Cart-mounted bulletproof shields are equipped with carts, which are more labor-saving for long-distance movement. In addition, like handheld bulletproof shields, they are equipped with handles on the back and can be used handheld. They are also equipped with bulletproof glass peepholes. Generally, shields with higher defense levels are usually very heavy, and carts are needed for long-term use. Cart-mounted bulletproof shields are mainly suitable for open and flat combat scenarios. When in use, placing the shield on the cart allows for arbitrary long-distance movement and is more labor-saving. In situations where the cart cannot be used due to changes in space and terrain, it can also be used handheld.

Ladder-style Bulletproof Shields

Ladder-style bulletproof shields have a special structure on the back that can be transformed into a ladder to deal with complex terrains. For example, it can help the user view and control the environment at higher places when necessary. At the same time, the bottom of the shield is also equipped with wheels, making it more convenient and labor-saving to move.

Briefcase-style Bulletproof Shields

Briefcase-style bulletproof shields are bulletproof shields that look like briefcases in appearance. Their normal appearance is just an ordinary briefcase, but they can be quickly deployed into bulletproof shields in emergency situations. The weight of this kind of shield is only about 5 kilograms, and it has a very good defensive effect against light weapons such as pistols.