Difference Between Armed and Unarmed Security Guard

January 8, 2021

Security guards are a recognizable force within society. At a mall, outside a nightclub, in a jewelry store or at some other location, they are there to protect and defend. Security guards focus on safeguarding property, products or even human beings from a variety of threats. When extra protection is necessary, people turn to security guards.

If you need assurance and extra safety for yourself, your business or your family, you may want to hire security guards. Armed and unarmed guards can both supply protective services, but which is the right choice for your needs? You should consider the difference between armed and unarmed security guards before making your decision.

What Is Armed Security?

Armed security includes one or more professional guards who have completed training in safe weapon handling and carrying. They offer defense and protection for your specific needs, and they can use lethal force if the situation demands it. Some businesses, such as banks and jewelry stores, have highly valuable products and services. In these instances, the evident presence of lethal force can be a deterrent against criminals. Armed security is not always subtle, and criminals notice weapons right away.

Many people wonder, “Can you hire armed security?” The answer is yes, and sometimes it is necessary. Many situations demand the powerful deterrent trained weapons handlers can provide. The Constitution guarantees Americans the right to bear arms. However, you might not be comfortable with the idea of doing so, especially if you’re dealing with customers or trying to travel lightly. In some situations, having armed guards nearby can offer peace of mind and protection against possible threats. You can focus less on self-defense with your weapon and more on your current task.

With armed security, the guards themselves are a force you can trust to defend your livelihood. The presence of weapons is a major deterrent to criminals in itself. Seeing a gun at a guard’s hip could be enough to convince a criminal that their plan is not worth risking their life or well-being. If criminals attempt violence to get what they want, you can trust that your armed guard can apprehend them and gain control of the situation, thanks to the additional implication of their weapon.

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What Is Unarmed Security?

Unarmed security includes one or more professionals protecting you, your family or your business without carrying weapons. While unarmed security guards might carry pepper spray or batons, they will not use guns or other high-impact weapons. You may wonder why you would choose an unarmed security guard for your protection when an armed guard provides an added element of carrying a gun. While some situations have armed security requirements, unarmed guards could be the better choice for many of your protection needs.

Unarmed security guards provide a more discreet element of protection. They can blend right in with the crowd at your event or patrons of your business. Armed security can cause your regular customers to feel tense or like they are in an unsafe environment. Unarmed guards, on the other hand, can increase your clients’ sense of safety. They might feel like you value their business and want to ensure their protection.

The presence of weapons might also agitate a criminal or escalate a situation. In these situations, the sight of a gun does more harm than good. An unarmed guard can keep things under control without getting weapons involved.

Using unarmed security keeps your customers at ease while still providing protection. Plus, they are usually more affordable than armed guards. Armed guards receive extra training and cost more to employ because of insurance liability, and you’ll see that additional cost on your bill. Unarmed guards could be the perfect choice for many situations and budgets.

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Choosing the Right Type of Security

Which type of security is right for your needs? The last thing you want to do is hire an armed security guard and accidentally scare away customers. You also want to make sure unarmed guards provide enough protection and deterrence against criminals for your unique situation. Both types of security guards can protect you, but specific environments and moments call for one or the other. When choosing between armed and unarmed security officers, you have to know which would benefit your needs more.

When to Use Armed Security Services

Ask yourself the following questions to determine if armed security services are right for you.

• Are you in an area with high rates of violence? If you are in a high-crime area, using an armed guard could be the better choice. They could deter criminals who might otherwise try their luck with an unarmed guard.
• Do you sell valuables? You might prefer the added protection armed guards can provide if you sell items that make tempting targets for thieves.
• Is your business on private property? Some public spaces, such as malls, will not allow you to have armed guards, even in your store.
• Will your guard be in client view? You may be worried about accidentally deterring customers instead of criminals. Can you keep your armed security guards hidden from sight?
• Is deterrence your goal? Armed guards could be the answer to keep you, your family, your employees or your customers safe from harm.
• Do you need them 24 hours per day? Use armed security after hours to protect your assets after you close shop for the day.

 

When to Use Unarmed Security Services

While armed security guards offer a high level of deterrence, sometimes unarmed guards are the better choice. Ask yourself these questions.

• What’s your budget? Armed guards can be expensive. Unarmed guards could provide the protection you need at a more affordable price.
• Is there a police presence nearby? Your unarmed guards can contact local authorities at a moment’s notice. If police can respond quickly to a call, unarmed guards might suffice for your needs.
• What will your clients think? Armed guards could make your loyal customers feel uncomfortable. Unarmed security guards can provide protection while keeping your clients at ease.
• Are you at low or high risk? If you or your business are in a safer area, unarmed guards could be the better option.
• What will your insurance cover? Some insurance policies will not allow armed guards because of the added risk related to weapons. In contrast, insurance policies often allow unarmed guards.

 

 

Contact Vigilant Tiger for Armed and Unarmed Security Services

Vigilant Tiger Security is here to meet your security needs. Whether you require armed or unarmed security for personal use or for your business, your safety is our top priority. Our highly trained and qualified guards operate with integrity, expertise, reliability and responsiveness. We want you to feel safe and protected, and our armed and unarmed guards can get the job done. Each guard has military or law enforcement experience, so they are knowledgeable and ready for any situation.

We offer the highest-quality security at rates you can afford. Contact us today to learn more about the services we provide. We look forward to protecting and serving you.

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