The T.E.A.R. round from Integral Hitch LLC is a specialized 12-gauge shotgun round produced exclusively for law enforcement. It’s primarily used for ballistic breaching, a method of creating entry points into buildings (often through doors) without sending projectiles ricocheting around the room. The round is frangible, meaning it breaks apart on impact, ensuring a safer environment during forced entry operations. This product is not available for sale to the general public.
The T.E.A.R. round’s effectiveness stems from its powerful kinetic energy and adherence to SAAMI (Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute) specifications. It features a 1.5-ounce payload, and when fired from a 12-gauge shotgun, it achieves around 1,850 PSI at the muzzle—delivering substantial force for breaching or specialized operations.
Officers rely on their training and protocols to assess door locks and hinges, often with advance knowledge about the building. The goal is to use a single T.E.A.R. round per hinge or lock by placing the shotgun muzzle at the correct position and angle, effectively taking out the target with minimal shots.
