Unarmed vs. Armed Security Guards: What’s Right for Your Business?

At All Nation Security Services, we work with businesses of all sizes to provide the right security solution based on risk level, environment, and budget. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each option to help you decide.

What Is an Unarmed Security Guard?

Unarmed security guards do not carry firearms but are trained in:

• Surveillance & patrolling
• Access control
• Conflict de-escalation
• Emergency response
• Communication and reporting

They are often supported with radios, cameras, and GPS-based tracking tools.

Ideal for:

• Office buildings
• Residential communities (HOAs)
• Retail stores
• Construction sites
• Schools or churches
• Shopping Centers
• Fast Food Establishments

What Is an Armed Security Guard?

Armed security guards carry licensed firearms and are typically trained in:

• Firearm safety and use
• Use-of-force protocols
• Threat management
• Law enforcement coordination
• Advanced emergency response

These guards often require a higher level of licensing, training, and insurance coverage.

Ideal for:

• High-risk locations
• Faith Based institutions
• Government or defense sites
• Large cash-handling facilities
• Crime-prone areas

Which Option Is Right for Your Business?

Ask yourself:

• What is the nature of your environment?
  (Retail vs. high-security facility)
• Is there a history of crime or threat on-site?
  (Past break-ins or cash theft)
• Do you want a visible deterrent or a low-profile presence?
  (Armed guards are highly visible and may impact customer experience)

At All Nation Security Services, our team conducts free risk assessments to help you decide which type of guard makes the most sense for your business.

Why All Nation Security Services Is the Right Choice

Whether you choose armed or unarmed, working with a reputable security provider makes all the difference.

         Armed vs. Unarmed Security Guards: What They Can & Cannot Do

Function / Authority	Unarmed Security Guards	Armed Security Guards
Carry a firearm	Cannot carry firearms	Legally permitted and licensed to carry
Perform citizen’s arrest	Yes, when allowed by law	Yes, same authority
Use physical force	Only when necessary for defense or safety	Yes, including use-of-force continuum
Use deadly force	No (not equipped for it)	In extreme cases when legally justified
De-escalate conflicts	Yes, trained in verbal techniques	Yes, with additional threat response tools
Visible deterrent	Moderate deterrent	Strong deterrent due to visible weapon
High-crime or high-risk environments	Not recommended alone	Recommended and often required
Handle active shooter situations	Must retreat & notify law enforcement	Can engage when properly trained/licensed
Cost to client (per hour)	💲 Lower hourly rate	💲💲 Higher (due to licensing & insurance)
Ideal for	Offices, retail, schools, residential sites	Banks, dispensaries, high-risk

With All Nation Security Services, you get:

Fully licensed and insured officers
Custom-matched guards trained to your site needs
24/7 client support and GPS-tracked reports
Rapid-response management
Coverage across Nevada, California, Texas, Florida & Oklahoma

We don’t just assign guards—we provide peace of mind through personalized, reliable, and accountable security solutions.

Ready to Secure Your Business the Smart Way?

If you’re unsure whether to choose armed or unarmed security, contact All Nation Security Services today for a free consultation and risk assessment.

Call: (888) 360-2525
Visit: www.allnationsecurity.com

George@allnationsecurity.com