M.R.A.P.S. Level III Ballistic Shield for SWAT

I was having lunch with some SWAT officers from an adjacent agency during a break in training a few weeks ago.  We regularly cross-train with other local tactical teams to share info and problem solve.  While we were talking equipment, they said they had just purchased several rifle-rated ballistic shields.  When I asked which make, they said, “M.R.A.P.S.”

I had seen the M.R.A.P.S. Level III shield at SHOT Show 2011.  Baker Ballistics, LLC manufactures the shield.  Baker Ballistics’ Director and CEO, Rick Armellino, gave the BlueSheepdog crew and me a demonstration of the capabilities of their Mobile Rifle Armor Protective Shield on the show floor.

I was pretty jazzed about the M.R.A.P.S. when I took these photos in Las Vegas.  At 17.6 lbs, with a 4.2 square foot coverage area, at NIJ Level III, I thought it was one of the best rifle shields I had seen.  The quick release load bearing lanyard system, stabilizing handle, and “M4 port” make it an effective fighting tool.

Baker Ballistics’ Specs for the M.R.A.P.S. are as follows:

FEATURES

  • Provides the operator with a dominating advantage during a firefight
  • Close Quarter Battle (CQB) capable
  • High-Technology grade military armor
  • Optimized for use with M-4 weaponry accessorized with Vertical Forestock Grip
    mounted on a Picatinny Rail
  • Protects against a wide range of centerfire rifle threats
  • Battle hardened – Defeats multiple impacts at muzzle velocities
  • Stable armored shooting platform
  • Exclusive Bungee/Lanyard™ system eliminates fatigue
  • “Quick Release” design for instant shield detachment from Bungee/Lanyard™
  • Lightweight ruggedized construction

SPECIFICATIONS

Threat Level:  NIJ Level III
Weight:  17.6 lbs. (8kg.)
Ballistic Protective Area:  4.2 sq. ft. (0.4m/sq.)
Colors:  Sand, Black, or Green at no charge [other colors/camouflage available]
Identification Decals:  POLICE or SHERIFF at no charge [custom decals available]

OPTIONS

  • Lighting:  Wide Angle High-Intensity LED with remote switch capability
  • Padded soft carrying case with shoulder strap
  • Custom Colors/Camouflage
  • Custom Identification Decals
  • Left Handed Version of M.R.A.P.S.™ Available
  • Hard Point Yoke™ Mounting Harness

BALLISTIC CAPABILITIES

5.56 x 45 M193 55gr. FMJ @ 3200fps (975mps)
7.62 x 39 123gr. FMJ @ 2375fps (724mps)
7.62 x 51 NATO 150gr. FMJ @ 2750fps (838mps)

My opinion is that our sister agency did their homework and selected a damn good piece of armor.  My team is currently shopping for new rifle rated shields, and we’ll be taking a look at these.  MSRP for the M.R.A.P.S. starts at $4125.

Randall

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