Law enforcement agencies have plenty to consider when outfitting a riot control team. From the type of equipment to cost and sizing, the process is never one-size-fits-all. Jason Fisher, International Sales Manager for Damascus Gear, shared some tips with OFFICER Magazine to help agencies be prepared before they make a purchase.
What do agencies need to keep in mind when outfitting a riot team?
Agencies usually have a good idea of what they are looking for or want before purchasing, but one important thing to keep in mind is the team member sizing. We size our suits to be adjustable and to fit multiple sizes. The riot protective suits that come as one packaged kit are sized by the chest, similar to a jacket being worn over your uniform. If buying the individual parts, these usually come in two sizes: MD/LG and XL/XXL.
What is something that often goes overlooked?
Many departments/agencies have purchased tactical vests and don’t realize that we have an option for our new PXA Hard Shell Arm Guards that can attach to their current tactical or load bearing vests... thus giving them an option to make a riot suit out of their existing equipment.
What are some of the basic pieces of equipment needed to outfit a riot team?
The basic equipment needed to outfit a riot control team consists of knee/shin guards and forearm/elbow guards, which are the most commonly bought items. Upper body protection should also be considered. Departments rely on existing tactical vests outfitted with arm/leg protection, or opt for a riot control option like the PX6 Tactical Riot Suit vest that can be used with included hard shell plates, or with the exposed Molle looping for tactical attachments.
What are some of the current riot gear trends? Have there been any advancements?
Fire resistant material continues to be an important requested option for domestic and international riot control teams. The latest trend sees the importance of modular riot suit components that can be interchanged and used to create the most effective riot control protection depending on the environment. We consider our new PX6 Tactical Riot Suit to be the most advanced option in the industry.
What suggestions would you give for smaller departments looking to outfit a riot team that are on a tight budget?
We now have four options for riot control suits with varying prices to meet the needs of a riot control team’s budget and size. Departments can also purchase a la carte items to be worn with existing gear, including the PXA Hard Shell Arm guards that can be attached to an existing tactical vest. Knee/shin guards, forearm/elbow guards, and thigh/groin protectors can also be purchased a la carte which provides the option for a department to outfit their team with the most essential protective gear at an affordable price.
