Riot shields are protective equipment used by law enforcement and military personnel to repel thrown objects and control crowds. They come in various sizes and materials, with some having ballistic ratings. Officers receive training in using them safely and effectively, often forming lines or using the “flying wedge” formation to disperse crowds.
A riot shield is protective equipment for law enforcement and military personnel who want additional body coverage to repel thrown objects, shrapnel, and other hazards. Riot shields are also a useful crowd control and riot control tool, as people can move in formation to create an effective wall to repel crowds or prevent people from walking out of a crowd. Numerous companies manufacture riot shields, and some may hold contracts for specific police and military forces.
The classic riot shield is a full shield, although sometimes people use smaller partial shields to cover torsos and little else. It is light enough for people to hold it comfortably with one arm, using bars or straps on the back of the riot shield to hold it up while keeping the other hand free. Many are clear or have a viewing window for people to see clearly so they can adjust shield placement. Lightweight plastic is a preferred building material, although some companies use metal.
Typically, the shield is curved, with the law enforcement officer’s body fitting into the shield, although some have an inverted design when the scoop faces outward. Some have ballistic ratings and can withstand low-velocity gunfire and other projectiles. Others are primarily useful for deflecting objects like rocks, bricks, and bottles that might be thrown by members of the crowd. The riot shield typically has police or military insignia.
Law enforcement officers can form a line with riot shields to create a barrier, making it difficult for people to pass. They can use this tactic when protecting dignitaries or keeping a crowd in a designated area. It can also be useful in mass arrests, where the line of riot shields keep the crowd in check so the arresting officers can do their job. Police also use shields to break protest lines and penetrate crowds, using the “flying wedge” formation. This wedge allows them to force their way in, using their shields for protection, so they can disperse a mob.
Police officers receive training in riot shields so they know how to use shields safely and appropriately. They will also learn how to use weapons while wielding a riot shield so they can effectively wield nightsticks, firearms, tear gas canisters, and other tools while controlling a shield with the other arm. Police tactics vary between nations and most use specific trainings and techniques and train their officers how to execute them.
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