Shields have been a crucial part of combat and defense for centuries. From ancient warriors to today’s elite tactical teams, protection has always been a top priority. But technology has changed the game. What started as simple wooden barriers has evolved into advanced ballistic shields built to withstand modern threats. At RTS Tactical, we’re not just keeping up with innovation—we’re leading the charge.
Early Shields: Wood, Bronze, and Iron
The earliest recorded shields date back thousands of years. Warriors of ancient civilizations such as the Greeks, Romans, and Vikings relied on shields made from wood reinforced with bronze or iron. These were effective against arrows and melee weapons but lacked resistance against firearms.
The Rise of Ballistic Shields
As firearms became dominant in combat, traditional shields became obsolete. However, during the 20th century, law enforcement and military units recognized the need for a new kind of protection against bullets. This led to the development of ballistic shields made from steel and, later, lighter composite materials like Kevlar and polyethylene. These advancements allowed officers to stay mobile while maintaining a high level of protection.
Modern Advancements in Tactical Shields
Today, tactical shields are designed with cutting-edge materials, offering superior protection against high-caliber rounds while remaining lightweight and maneuverable. Features like transparent viewports, weapon rests, and ergonomic designs enhance their usability in high-pressure situations.
RTS Tactical: Redefining Shield Technology
At RTS Tactical, we’re committed to redefining what’s possible in shield technology. Our latest innovations include:
- The RTS Tactical Mini Shield: A compact yet powerful solution, offering high-level ballistic protection without the bulk of traditional full-sized shields. It’s ideal for quick deployment in close-quarters situations.
- Patent-Pending Boltless Viewport: Our industry-leading design eliminates the need for bolts in the viewport, reducing weak points and increasing overall structural integrity.
- Ballistic-Rated Bolts: Unlike standard fasteners, our specially designed ballistic-rated bolts enhance durability and security, ensuring maximum protection in the field.
- RTS Tactical RF1 Shield lineup: The lightest RF1-rated shields per square foot on the market, delivering unmatched ballistic protection without adding unnecessary weight.
Shields have come a long way from their ancient origins, but the mission remains the same: protection in the face of danger. At RTS Tactical, we’re committed to equipping today’s warriors with the best defense possible—because when it comes to safety, there’s no room for compromise.
RTS Tactical: Protection. Innovation. Performance.