Difference Between Armed and Unarmed Security Guards

Security plays a very important role in keeping people, property, and businesses safe. Security guards are trained professionals who watch over areas and help stop crime. There are two main types of security guards—armed and unarmed. Each type has different duties, training, and responsibilities. Understanding the difference between them helps people choose the right kind of protection for their needs.

Table of Contents

Definition and Basic Role

Armed Security Guards
- Armed guards carry weapons like guns or batons.
- These guards are trained to handle dangerous situations.
- Armed guards are used in high-risk places such as banks, jewelry stores, or government offices.
Unarmed Security Guards
- Unarmed guards do not carry guns or heavy weapons.
- These guards use non-violent methods like observation and reporting.
- Unarmed guards work in places like schools, malls, offices, and hospitals.

Training and Certification

Armed Security Guards
- Must complete firearm training from a licensed agency.
- Need a license or permit to carry weapons.
- Learn how to use force properly and follow legal rules.
Unarmed Security Guards
- Require basic security training only.
- Learn about patrolling, communication, and reporting.
- Do not need training with weapons.

Risk Level and Work Environment

Armed Security Guards
- Face higher risks due to the presence of weapons.
- Work in areas with a greater chance of violence or theft.
- Must always stay alert and ready to use their weapon if needed.
Unarmed Security Guards
- Face lower levels of risk.
- Work in safer, low-threat places.
- Handle problems using observation, verbal warnings, and calling for help.

Cost and Hiring

Armed Security Guards
- They are more expensive to hire.
- Have higher salaries due to their training and responsibilities.
- Require more insurance coverage from employers.
Unarmed Security Guards
- Cost less to hire.
- They are suitable for businesses with a smaller security budget.
- They are easier to recruit and train.

Legal Requirements

Armed Security Guards
- Must follow strict state and federal laws for weapon use.
- Require background checks and mental health evaluations.
- Can only use weapons in very specific situations.
Unarmed Security Guards
- Follow general security laws.
- Have fewer legal steps to complete before employment.
- Still need to pass basic checks and training.

Duties and Responsibilities

Type of Duty	Armed Security Guards	Unarmed Security Guards
Patrolling	Patrol with weapons in hand or close by	Patrol without any weapons
Responding to Threats	Use force if necessary	Use communication and call for backup
Monitoring CCTV	Monitor while prepared for immediate action	Monitor and report suspicious activities
Customer Interaction	Limited interaction in high-risk environments	More interaction in public or customer areas
Emergency Handling	Handle with weapon support if needed	Follow emergency procedures and assist people

Skills and Qualities Required

Armed Security Guards
- Need strong decision-making and quick judgment.
- Must be calm in dangerous situations.
- Should have good knowledge of weapon safety.
Unarmed Security Guards
- Need good communication and observation skills.
- Must be friendly and professional.
- Should be able to handle conflicts without violence.

Work Locations

Location Type	Preferred Guard Type
Banks	Armed Security Guard
Shopping Malls	Unarmed Security Guard
Government Buildings	Armed Security Guard
Schools and Colleges	Unarmed Security Guard
Hospitals	Unarmed Security Guard
Airports	Armed Security Guard
Hotels	Unarmed Security Guard
Jewelry Stores	Armed Security Guard

Advantages and Disadvantages

Armed Security Guards
- Advantages:
  - Can provide immediate defense.
  - They are a strong visual deterrent to criminals.
- Disadvantages:
  - Higher cost.
  - Greater legal risks.
Unarmed Security Guards
- Advantages:
  - Cost-effective for general security needs.
  - Less legal responsibility.
- Disadvantages:
  - Limited response in violent situations.
  - May need help from the police for serious threats.

When to Choose Each Type

Situation	Best Choice
High-value asset protection	Armed Security Guard
Event crowd control	Unarmed Security Guard
Day-to-day office security	Unarmed Security Guard
High-risk transport (like cash vans)	Armed Security Guard
School or college campus safety	Unarmed Security Guard
Political or celebrity protection	Armed Security Guard
Basic front desk monitoring	Unarmed Security Guard

Employer Responsibilities

For Armed Guards
- Provide regular firearm training.
- Ensure mental and physical health checks.
- Maintain clear weapon usage policies.
For Unarmed Guards
- Offer communication and safety training.
- Define clear roles and responsibilities.
- Provide support tools like radios or emergency alarms.

Public Perception and Use of Force

Armed Security Guards
- Seen as more aggressive.
- May cause fear or discomfort in peaceful settings.
- Must avoid using weapons unless needed.
Unarmed Security Guards
- Seen as friendly and approachable.
- Preferred in places with high public interaction.
- Focus more on prevention and communication.

Summary: Armed vs. Unarmed Security Guards

Factor	Armed Security Guards	Unarmed Security Guards
Carry Weapons	Yes	No
Training Needed	Advanced + Firearm Training	Basic Security Training
Risk Level	High	Low
Work Environments	High-security zones	General public spaces
Cost of Hiring	High	Moderate to Low
Response in Emergencies	Immediate with force	Call the police or handle calmly
Legal Requirements	Strict	Basic
Interaction with the Public	Less frequent	Frequent

Key Takeaways

Choosing between armed and unarmed security guards depends on the level of risk and the type of protection needed. Armed guards are ideal for high-risk areas but come with higher costs and responsibilities. Unarmed guards are better for everyday security in safer environments. A clear understanding of the differences helps businesses and individuals make the right choice for safety and peace of mind.