An inside look at the equipment used by uniformed armed security guards, plainclothes personnel, and executive protection professionals.

An armed security guard’s equipment serves several purposes. It allows the guard to perform routine security duties, communicate with other personnel, protect themselves, and respond to emergencies.

However, there is a considerable difference between a properly equipped armed security guard and someone who simply carries a handgun.

Table of Contents

1. Duty Handguns: The Primary Firearm
2. Patrol Rifles and AR-15s
3. Spare Magazines and Defensive Ammunition
4. Duty Holsters: Level II and Level III Retention
5. Duty Belts, Inner Belts, and Belt Keepers
6. Expandable Batons
7. OC Spray and Pepper Gel
8. Axon TASER Devices
9. Byrna PepperBall Launchers
10. Handcuffs and Restraint Equipment
11. Cut-Resistant and Protective Gloves
12. First Aid Kits and Tourniquets
13. Body Armor: Level IIIA and Higher
14. Boots and Professional Footwear
15. Uniforms, Security Identification, and Name Tags
16. Radios and Communication Equipment
17. Body-Worn Cameras and Documentation Equipment
18. Uniformed Armed Security: The Traditional Duty Setup
19. Plainclothes Armed Security
20. Executive Protection Equipment
21. How Much Does It Cost to Train and Equip an Armed Security Guard?
22. Does Every Armed Security Guard Need All This Equipment?
23. Final Thoughts: Equipment Is Only Part of Professional Armed Security
24. Frequently Asked Questions About Armed Security Guard Equipment
25. Request Professional Armed Security Services in Colorado

Professional armed security requires more than a firearm and a uniform. Depending on the assignment, guards may carry spare ammunition, less-lethal defensive tools, handcuffs, body armor, medical supplies, communications equipment, and other items.

The equipment also changes depending on whether the guard is working in a traditional uniform, performing plainclothes security, or providing executive protection.

At Patrol Guard Security Services (PGSS), we believe equipment selection should reflect the assignment, the guard’s training, applicable laws, and the responsibilities established by the client.

Below is a breakdown of what armed security guards commonly carry and why each item matters.

1. Duty Handguns: The Primary Firearm

The handgun is generally the primary firearm carried by an armed security guard.

Modern semiautomatic pistols dominate the professional security industry because of their reliability, ammunition capacity, ease of maintenance, and widespread availability of replacement parts and accessories.

The Glock 19 is arguably one of the most recognizable choices for armed security personnel. Its relatively compact dimensions make it suitable for uniformed duty, plainclothes assignments, and certain executive protection applications.

Other commonly encountered professional handgun models include:

• Glock 19: Compact 9mm pistol suitable for both uniformed and concealed carry.
• Glock 17: Full-size 9mm pistol frequently associated with law enforcement and uniformed security.
• Glock 45: Combines a compact-length slide with a full-size grip.
• Glock 47: Full-size 9mm pistol designed for professional duty applications.
• Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0: A widely established duty-pistol platform.
• Heckler & Koch VP9: A striker-fired 9mm pistol with interchangeable grip components.
• SIG Sauer P320: A modular pistol platform used in multiple professional configurations.
• Walther PDP: A modern striker-fired handgun available in compact and full-size configurations.

Although the Glock 19 is a strong contender among popular security handguns, there is no comprehensive industry-wide sales dataset establishing it as the single most common model carried by private security guards.

Most of these pistols are available in 9mm, which is widely used for professional duty applications.

The specific firearm should be approved by the security company, compatible with the required holster, and supported by documented training and qualification.

2. Patrol Rifles and AR-15s

Although handguns are the primary firearms carried by most armed security guards, certain high-risk assignments may justify a patrol rifle.

The AR-15 is one of the most recognized rifle platforms used in law enforcement and specialized security operations. Popular manufacturers include Smith & Wesson (M&P15), FN America (FN 15), and Colt.

Patrol rifles may be appropriate for critical infrastructure protection, certain high-risk facilities, and specialized security assignments where the threat assessment supports their use.

However, rifles are not standard equipment for most security guards. Their use requires additional firearms training, qualification, proper storage, clear company policies, and compliance with applicable laws and licensing requirements.

A patrol rifle should be issued based on operational necessity, not simply as an additional piece of equipment.

3. Spare Magazines and Defensive Ammunition

Armed security guards commonly carry spare magazines in addition to the magazine inserted into their handgun.

Depending on company policy and the assignment, a guard may carry one or more spare magazines. Some uniformed guards carry three or four spares, although that should not be treated as a universal industry requirement.

Professional duty ammunition is another important consideration.

Rather than ordinary full-metal-jacket training ammunition, many armed security programs use defensive cartridges designed for reliable performance and controlled expansion.

Recognizable examples include:

• Hornady Critical Duty
• Speer Gold Dot
• Federal Premium HST

These are established defensive ammunition product lines used in professional contexts.

A security company should establish a clear ammunition policy, including approved cartridges, compatibility testing, and qualification requirements.

The selection should be based on reliable function and professional standards, not marketing claims alone.

4. Duty Holsters: Level II and Level III Retention

A handgun should be carried in a holster appropriate for professional security work.

For uniformed armed security, Level II and Level III retention holsters are common choices because they incorporate additional mechanisms intended to reduce unauthorized access to the firearm.

The retention designation describes the holster’s security features, although terminology and testing can vary between manufacturers.

Well-known professional holster manufacturers include:

• Safariland: Known for its ALS and SLS retention systems and extensive duty-holster lineup.
• Alien Gear Rapid Force: Offers duty holsters incorporating active retention mechanisms.
• Blackhawk T-Series: Provides duty holsters with retention features designed for professional use.

Holsters must be compatible with the exact firearm configuration, including any approved mounted light or optic.

For uniformed security, a quality retention holster is one of the most important pieces of equipment on the duty belt.

Plainclothes and executive protection personnel may use different holsters designed for concealment, but safe retention, secure attachment, and proper firearm coverage remain essential.

5. Duty Belts, Inner Belts, and Belt Keepers

A professional armed security guard may carry several pounds of equipment around the waist.

A traditional duty belt is often approximately 2.25 inches wide, although other widths are available.

Many uniformed setups use a two-belt system consisting of a roughly 2-inch inner belt and an outer duty belt.

Belt keepers may be used to help secure the outer belt and prevent unnecessary movement.

The duty belt may support the handgun, spare magazines, handcuffs, defensive tools, and other authorized equipment.

Quality matters because a poorly fitted belt can cause discomfort, interfere with movement, and make equipment difficult to manage during long shifts.

A guard working a 12-hour assignment should not have to constantly adjust a shifting or poorly supported duty belt.

6. Expandable Batons

Expandable batons remain common defensive tools in some armed security assignments.

Typical baton lengths range from approximately 21 to 26 inches, although shorter and longer models exist.

Batons are generally carried as intermediate-force tools, subject to company policy, applicable law, and training requirements.

A baton is not appropriate for every confrontation. Its use can cause serious injury, and guards must understand the legal standards governing physical force.

Guards should receive formal training in lawful deployment, defensive applications, retention, and the medical consequences associated with baton strikes.

7. OC Spray and Pepper Gel

Oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray is another defensive tool that may be carried by armed security personnel.

Both conventional spray and gel formulations are available.

Pepper gel is sometimes selected for assignments where the operator wants a more directed application, although no formulation eliminates the risks of contamination, exposure, or ineffective deployment.

OC products may provide an option for responding to certain threats without resorting to deadly force.

However, OC exposure can create medical risks, and guards need appropriate training, decontamination procedures, and knowledge of applicable use-of-force laws.

The product should also be approved by the security company and permitted in the jurisdiction where the guard is working.

8. Axon TASER Devices

Electronic control devices are another option for certain armed security assignments.

Axon is among the best-known manufacturers of TASER devices.

Models encountered in professional use include:

• TASER X26P: A compact, single-cartridge legacy model.
• TASER X2: A two-cartridge legacy model.
• TASER 7: A newer platform designed for professional deployment.
• TASER 10: A more recent platform using individually deployed probes.

Not every model is available or authorized for every private security company.

Some devices are subject to manufacturer eligibility requirements, training prerequisites, agency purchasing restrictions, or local regulations.

Security guards should only carry models they are authorized and trained to use.

A TASER is not a substitute for sound judgment or de-escalation. Like other force options, it carries risks and limitations.

For a more detailed explanation, see Understanding TASERs: A Guide for Security Guards.

9. Byrna PepperBall Launchers

Less-lethal projectile launchers have also attracted attention in the private security industry.

Byrna manufactures launchers designed to discharge compatible projectiles, including chemical-irritant options.

These devices are sometimes described as PepperBall-style launchers, although PepperBall is also a separate brand.

A launcher may be considered for certain security assignments, but its use requires careful evaluation.

Private security companies must determine whether the device is lawful, permitted under their licensing requirements, approved by the client, and covered by company policies and insurance.

Training is essential because less-lethal projectiles can still cause serious injury.

These devices should not be treated as harmless alternatives to firearms.

10. Handcuffs and Restraint Equipment

Some armed security guards carry one or two pairs of quality handcuffs.

Handcuffs may be used in limited circumstances where a guard has lawful authority to detain or restrain an individual.

However, private security guards are not police officers, and carrying handcuffs does not create arrest powers beyond those provided by applicable law.

Improper detention or restraint can expose the guard and security company to significant civil liability.

Guards must understand detention authority, proportionality, restraint safety, monitoring, documentation, and the requirement to contact law enforcement when appropriate.

The presence of handcuffs on a duty belt should reflect a legitimate operational need and appropriate training.

11. Cut-Resistant and Protective Gloves

Protective gloves are another practical piece of security equipment.

Some guards carry cut-resistant gloves containing aramid fibers such as Kevlar or other protective materials.

These may help reduce the risk of certain cuts and abrasions during authorized searches, handling of potentially hazardous objects, or other approved duties.

However, cut-resistant gloves are not necessarily puncture-resistant, needle-resistant, or fully protective against sharp objects.

The gloves should be selected for the specific hazards of the assignment.

12. First Aid Kits and Tourniquets

Medical equipment is often overlooked when discussing armed security.

A properly equipped guard may carry a compact first aid kit, a tourniquet, or both.

Depending on the assignment, useful supplies may include disposable gloves, sterile dressings, pressure bandages, and other emergency medical items.

A quality tourniquet can be an important lifesaving tool during a severe extremity bleeding emergency.

However, carrying medical equipment without knowing how to use it is not enough.

Guards should receive appropriate first aid and bleeding-control training, understand when to call emergency medical services, and follow company procedures.

In many emergencies, a guard’s most important contribution may be providing immediate medical assistance rather than using any defensive equipment.

13. Body Armor: Level IIIA and Higher

Body armor is an important consideration for armed security guards, particularly those assigned to higher-risk environments.

A common option is soft ballistic armor with front and rear protective panels.

Under the older NIJ 0101.06 standard, Level IIIA armor is tested against specified handgun threats, including .44 Magnum ammunition.

Under the newer NIJ classification system, the broadly corresponding handgun protection category is HG2.

This does not mean every vest labeled IIIA or HG2 provides protection against every firearm or cartridge.

Body armor must be evaluated against its actual certification, intended threat protection, fit, coverage, and condition.

Soft handgun-rated armor generally should not be assumed to provide rifle protection. Rifle threats require armor rated for the relevant rifle ammunition.

Guards should look for models listed on the National Institute of Justice Compliant Products List.

Body armor should fit correctly, cover the intended vital areas, and be maintained according to manufacturer instructions.

For certain assignments, additional rifle-rated plates may be considered when supported by the threat assessment and company policy.

14. Boots and Professional Footwear

Footwear may not receive as much attention as firearms or body armor, but it is essential for daily security work.

Uniformed guards may spend entire shifts walking, standing, climbing stairs, or patrolling large properties.

Quality duty boots or shoes should provide appropriate traction, support, durability, and comfort.

The best footwear depends on the assignment.

A guard working a construction site may need protective boots suitable for industrial hazards, while a guard assigned to an office building may wear professional black duty shoes.

Executive protection personnel may require footwear that looks appropriate with business clothing while still allowing comfortable movement.

15. Uniforms, Security Identification, and Name Tags

A professional uniform should make security personnel easy to identify.

Depending on the assignment and local regulations, uniformed guards may wear clearly marked SECURITY identification on both the front and rear, company patches, and a name tag.

Identification is especially important during emergencies.

Employees, customers, and visitors should be able to recognize the security guard when they need assistance.

Responding police officers must also be able to distinguish security personnel from potential suspects, particularly during an active shooter incident.

Clear identification can reduce confusion, although uniforms alone cannot eliminate the risk of mistaken identity.

Professional appearance also contributes to public confidence and the overall credibility of the security company.

16. Radios and Communication Equipment

Communication is one of the most important parts of any security assignment.

Depending on the contract, armed guards may carry handheld radios, cellular push-to-talk devices, or other approved communication equipment.

Some locations have dedicated security dispatch operations, while smaller assignments may require direct communication with management or emergency services.

Radios are especially useful at large properties, events, industrial facilities, and locations where multiple guards are working together.

A guard who cannot communicate effectively may have difficulty requesting assistance, reporting an emergency, or coordinating with responding personnel.

Communication equipment should be reliable, properly maintained, and supported by clear procedures.

17. Body-Worn Cameras and Documentation Equipment

Body-worn cameras are increasingly used in professional security operations.

Depending on the assignment, they may help document interactions, preserve evidence, support incident investigations, and improve accountability.

However, camera policies must address recording restrictions, privacy, retention, evidence security, and access to recorded footage.

Healthcare facilities, residential properties, and other sensitive environments may require additional safeguards.

Guards should also have access to a reliable method for completing daily activity reports and incident reports.

A professional security operation depends on accurate documentation, not simply the physical equipment worn by the guard.

Uniformed Armed Security: The Traditional Duty Setup

Uniformed armed security guards generally carry the most visible equipment.

Their assignments may include retail security, commercial properties, hospitals, warehouses, residential communities, and other facilities requiring a recognizable security presence.

A typical uniformed setup may include a duty handgun in a retention holster, spare magazines, an approved defensive tool, handcuffs where authorized, body armor, a radio, and basic medical equipment.

The guard may also wear a clearly marked uniform with company identification on the front and rear.

However, the duty belt should not be overloaded with unnecessary equipment.

Every item should serve a legitimate purpose, be approved by the company, and be supported by training.

A professional armed guard does not need every available defensive tool on their belt to be effective.

Plainclothes Armed Security: Professional Protection Without a Traditional Uniform

Plainclothes security personnel may perform assignments where a conventional uniform is unnecessary or would interfere with the client’s objectives.

Examples include discreet protective assignments, certain corporate environments, and supplemental security operations.

These guards may carry an approved concealed handgun and limited supporting equipment appropriate to their responsibilities.

Unlike uniformed guards, plainclothes personnel generally do not carry a full external duty belt.

Equipment selection must account for concealment, safe retention, comfort, and applicable firearm laws.

Plainclothes assignments also create identification challenges.

During an emergency, responding law enforcement may not immediately recognize an armed individual as security personnel.

For that reason, plainclothes operations require clear identification procedures, communication plans, and coordination with the client and responding authorities.

We previously discussed these differences in our article comparing uniformed and plainclothes security personnel.

Executive Protection: Equipment That Matches the Assignment

Executive protection personnel often use a different equipment configuration than traditional uniformed security guards.

The objective is to protect the client while maintaining a professional appearance and avoiding unnecessary disruption.

An executive protection professional may wear business attire or other clothing appropriate to the assignment.

Depending on the threat assessment and legal requirements, equipment may include an approved concealed handgun, spare ammunition, communications equipment, medical supplies, and other discreet protective items.

Body armor may also be considered, particularly when the assignment involves elevated threats.

However, executive protection involves much more than the equipment being carried.

Advance planning, threat assessment, transportation coordination, situational awareness, emergency response, and communication are fundamental parts of professional protective operations.

A person carrying a concealed handgun while wearing a suit is not automatically qualified to provide executive protection.

Learn more about Executive Protection Services.

How Much Does It Cost to Train and Equip an Armed Security Guard?

Properly equipping an armed security guard represents a significant financial investment.

The cost goes beyond purchasing a handgun.

A security company may need to account for the firearm, retention holster, duty belt, magazines, defensive ammunition, body armor, communications equipment, medical supplies, uniforms, and other authorized items.

Training adds another expense.

Guards may need initial firearms training, live-fire qualifications, less-lethal equipment certifications, defensive tactics instruction, and ongoing professional development.

There are also expenses associated with licensing, insurance, equipment replacement, and supervision.

These costs help explain why professional armed security services generally cost more than basic unarmed security coverage.

A business comparing security companies should consider whether the provider is investing in the training and equipment necessary for guards to perform their duties safely and professionally.

The cheapest security contract is not necessarily the best value.

Does Every Armed Security Guard Need All This Equipment?

No.

The equipment should match the assignment.

A uniformed armed guard at a high-risk retail location may have different requirements than an executive protection professional working in business attire.

A guard assigned to an industrial facility may require additional protective footwear or site-specific safety equipment.

A guard working in a hospital may need specialized training and equipment policies appropriate to the healthcare environment.

Some assignments may prohibit particular defensive tools entirely.

Security companies should establish equipment standards based on actual operational requirements, applicable laws, training, insurance, and client expectations.

Carrying unnecessary equipment can create additional problems involving weight, comfort, retention, training, and liability.

Final Thoughts: Equipment Is Only Part of Professional Armed Security

A handgun, retention holster, body armor, and duty belt may be the most recognizable parts of an armed security guard’s equipment.

However, none of those items replaces professional training, judgment, or experience.

A properly equipped guard should understand when to intervene, when to disengage, how to communicate effectively, and how to respond within the limits of the law.

Security companies also have a responsibility to establish reasonable equipment standards and ensure personnel are qualified to carry what they are issued.

At Patrol Guard Security Services, we believe professional armed security should be built around trained personnel, appropriate equipment, clear procedures, and accountability.

The goal is not to put as much equipment as possible on a security guard. It is to provide the right equipment, backed by the training and judgment necessary to use it responsibly.

Request Professional Armed Security Services in Colorado

Patrol Guard Security Services provides professional armed security services for businesses, commercial properties, healthcare facilities, houses of worship, construction projects, and other organizations throughout the Denver metropolitan area and Colorado.

Our approach emphasizes professional appearance, properly trained personnel, responsible security practices, and equipment appropriate to the assignment.

Contact Patrol Guard Security Services to discuss your security requirements and request a proposal.

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Legal Disclaimer: This article is provided for general educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice or operational authorization to use force. Specific incidents must be evaluated under current law, controlling court decisions, licensing requirements, and applicable policies. State statutes and case law should be reviewed by qualified legal counsel before this article is used as a formal training or policy document.