A.A.M. Ballistic Shield Level 3 Review

During the month of February 2025, the Sebastian Police Department conducted a test and review of the Automotive Armor Ballistic Shield (Level III) supplied by Automotive Armor. The test shield was evaluated by members of our Special Response Team (SRT) and a department shield instructor. The shield was utilized during various range exercises and multiple patrol shifts. Range exercises included pistol stationary shooting drills and moving shooting drills. The ergonomics of the shield offer a fine balance of protection and usability. For a rifle rated (level III) shield, the weight of the shield was not cumbersome for the operator. Even after multiple drills involving running with the shield and moving shooting drills, the operators were able to manipulate the shield with ease and maintain proper shield positioning for protection.

The shield cutouts were ideal for allowing proper presentation of weapon systems, allowing the operator the ability to gain a consistent sight picture. The handle of the shield is well designed, allowing the operator a variety of ways to hold/ manipulate the shield. The shield handle allows adequate spacing between the operator’s hand and the shield. This spacing allows the operator to manipulate the shield with ease. Due to the spacing, shield contortion under direct impact is less of a concern for trapping the operator’s hand. This spacing is dependent on the size of the operator’s hand. The shield viewport allowed for quick ease of target identification and site alignment/ picture. The viewport allowed for a fine balance of usability verses weight. The only critique received, while testing this shield, was the desire to have a V shaped viewport. A V shaped view port would allow the operator the ability to better observe lower areas in front of the shield. A negative to a V shaped viewport is the added overall weight.

As it relates to the durability of the shield, our test shield was found to be well manufactured. From the rigors of riding around, on patrol, throughout a multitude of vehicles, the shield showed no signs of wear. Other various shields have showed extensive wear to the finish/ material of the shield from the rigors of riding in the rear cargo area or trunk of a patrol vehicle. The shield’s durability was also tested during range exercises, where the shield was dropped or quickly placed on a variety of surfaces. The shield showed no signs of wear or defect.

Overall, the Automotive Armor Ballistic Shield (level III) offers a great balance of usability and protection with a seven-year warranty.