Over 40 RTS Tactical Shields Donated Nationwide, and It’s Just the Beginning.
In an era of increasing threats and limited department budgets, the United States Deputy Sheriff’s Association (USDSA) is stepping up in a major way. This year alone, they’ve donated over 40 RTS Tactical Mini Shields to under-resourced law enforcement agencies across the country, from Vermont to Texas, arming frontline officers with critical rifle-rated protection they otherwise couldn’t afford.
These aren't symbolic gestures. They're life-saving tools that have been rapidly integrated into active duty, tactical units, patrol fleets, school response teams, and narcotics task forces.
“Our office executes numerous narcotic-related warrants… not knowing what is on the other side of a door can be dangerous. This donation (RTS Mini Shield) will keep our deputies and other law enforcement personnel safe.”
— Fayette County Sheriff’s Office, IA
A Mission Built on Protection
“At United States Deputy Sheriff’s Association (USDSA), our mission is to support the brave men and women of law enforcement across the country through equipment donations, advanced training programs, End of Watch support, and public education initiatives,” said the organization in a recent statement.
“What started as a small effort to assist under-resourced departments has grown into a nationwide initiative impacting thousands of officers and agencies.” — USDSA Executive Director
USDSA prioritizes departments with fewer than 50 officers, agencies that often find themselves priced out of essential ballistic gear. Through its partnership with RTS Tactical, the association has made it possible for these departments to receive rifle-rated ballistic shields without cost, giving them an edge in life-threatening scenarios.
“We proudly work with RTS Tactical. Their gear reflects the level of quality and innovation we demand for our officers, while balancing cutting-edge protection with comfort and functionality in the field,”
“RTS Tactical shares our unwavering commitment to officer survival.”
— USDSA Law Enforcement National Training & Program Director
The RTS Tactical Mini Shield: Small Footprint, Big Impact
The RTS Tactical Mini Shield is a compact, lightweight ballistic shield built for speed and maneuverability. Rated to Level III+, it provides protection against modern rifle threats including 5.56x45mm M855 (Green Tip) and 7.62x39mm MSC (M43).
Designed for grab-and-go deployment from patrol vehicles, school entrances, or tight corridors, the Mini Shield empowers officers with instant coverage in situations where body armor alone may not be enough.
“This rifle-rated shield gives responding officers confidence and peace of mind that they will complete the tasks they’re faced with, safely.” — Ilion Police Department, NY
“The mini shield provides an additional layer of defense... allowing officers to perform their duties with greater confidence and security.” — Pageland Police Department, SC
A Nationwide Impact Told by Officers
Dozens of departments have echoed the same message: the RTS Tactical Mini Shield is a game-changer.
“Due to budgetary restraints, we had to remove a ballistic shield from our request. The donation provided protection in what is likely to be the most dangerous situations they will face.”
— Gloversville Police Department, NY
“This contribution will undoubtedly make a meaningful impact in our day-to-day operations.”
— Oxford Police Department, MI
“This shield is more than just tactical equipment, it’s a critical tool that enhances the protection and confidence of our officers in high-risk situations.”
— West Virginia State University Police Department
“We are a small agency with a tight budget, so without your generous donation, we would not be able to utilize this equipment.”
— Burnham Police Department, IL
“Your donation is more than just added protection, it’s a reminder that we’re not in this alone.”
— North Catasauqua Police Department, PA
Whether the shield is being issued to school resource officers, narcotics units, or patrol supervisors, the effect is the same: a higher level of confidence, readiness, and safety.
“This ballistic shield significantly enhances our ability to protect both our officers and the community we serve in critical and high-risk situations.”
— Oolitic Marshal’s Office, IN
“Officers are very happy to have another tool to utilize should the need arise.”
— Great Bend Police Department, KS
“Thank you for providing us with a Mini Ballistic Shield so that our Bailiffs can use it in case of necessity. I look forward to developing a deeper relationship with the USDSA.”
— City of Dallas Municipal Court – Bailiffs Division, TX
A Call to Agencies Everywhere
The RTS Tactical Mini Shield isn’t just a piece of gear, it’s a statement: your officers’ safety matters.
As USDSA continues expanding its donation efforts, more departments are lining up for support. Officers are training with the shields, deploying them on active calls, and integrating them into daily operations. For many agencies, it’s the most advanced ballistic protection they've ever had access to.
“We’re hoping to never need the use of the shield, but now the officers at this agency will have that line of safety.”
— Wirt County Sheriff’s Office, WV
“Such contributions are vital in fostering a safer environment for both law enforcement and citizens alike.”
— Pageland Police Department, SC
Learn More
Whether you’re a department leader, procurement officer, or community member looking to support your local law enforcement, the RTS Tactical Mini Shield is making a big impact, one department at a time.
Click here to explore the RTS Tactical Level III+ Rifle Special Threats Mini Shield and learn why more departments are trusting it to protect their officers in the most critical moments.