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

by citiguard June 2, 2025
written by citiguard June 2, 2025
Three security officers from Citiguard stand together outdoors, discussing paperwork near a patrol vehicle.

Choosing the right level of security for your business is a big decision—and a necessary one. Whether you’re running a retail store, managing an apartment complex, or overseeing a warehouse, safety is something you simply can’t afford to overlook.

When looking into security guard services, one of the most common questions we hear is: “Do I need armed or unarmed security?” It’s a great question, and the answer depends on your specific environment, risk level, and goals.

At Citiguard, we offer both armed and unarmed security guard services, and we’re here to help you make the right choice with confidence. Let’s take a closer look at what each type of service offers, and where each one works best.

What Do Armed Security Guards Do?

Security personnel with a license and training to carry and operate a handgun are known as armed guards. To make sure they are equipped to handle high-risk scenarios, they undergo stringent background checks, firearms training, and extra qualifications.

Armed guard duties include:

  • Prevent and address criminal conduct
  • Safeguard valuable goods, such as money, jewels, and private papers.
  • Keep an eye on and protect high-risk regions.
  • Use the proper amount of force when responding to emergencies, if necessary.
  • Work along with police enforcement.

Best Use Cases for Unarmed Security Guards:

  • Banks and other financial institutions 
  • Late-night operations or areas with high crime rates
  • Retail establishments that sell expensive goods
  • Logistics hubs or warehouses that handle pricey equipment
  • Events or locations anticipating big crowds and high levels of danger

If your business faces elevated safety risks or if you deal with valuable inventory, cash, or sensitive materials, armed security may be the right fit for you.

What About Unarmed Security Guards?

Despite not carrying guns, unarmed guards are nonetheless very skilled and capable. An unarmed presence is actually not only more suitable, but frequently the best option in many situations.

The duties of unarmed guards include:

  • Keep an eye out for and report any unusual activities.
  • To discourage crime, provide a conspicuous security presence.
  • Keep an eye on secure entry/exit locations and access points.
  • Help with de-escalation and customer service
  • Keep everyone secure by conducting regular patrols.

Best Use Cases for Unarmed Security Guards:

  • Reception desks and office buildings are the ideal locations for unarmed security guards.
  • Gated communities or residential complexes
  • Retail settings that prioritize the consumer experience
  • Places of worship, schools, and medical facilities

Unarmed guards are excellent for locations where a professional, approachable presence is needed. They’re trained in communication, observation, and emergency response, and they often serve as the first line of defense without the need for force.

(A Citiguard security officer helps a young student safely cross the street near a school zone, with other children waiting on the sidewalk.)

Armed vs. Unarmed Security: What’s the Difference?

Choosing between armed and unarmed security guard services depends on your specific environment, risks, and goals. Here’s a quick breakdown to help guide your decision.

Armed security guards are licensed professionals trained to carry firearms. Their training includes firearm safety, legal regulations, and emergency response. These guards are ideal for high-risk environments like banks, dispensaries, warehouses with valuable inventory, and late-night operations. Their presence can act as a powerful deterrent and is essential when the threat of violence or theft is elevated.

Unarmed security guards do not carry weapons, but they are still thoroughly trained in de-escalation, emergency response, and public safety. They’re a great fit for low- to moderate-risk environments such as schools, residential communities, office buildings, and retail spaces. These guards provide a calm, professional presence that’s both reassuring and approachable.

Perception also matters. Armed guards tend to command authority, but may feel intimidating in certain spaces. Unarmed guards, on the other hand, offer a friendly, welcoming face while still maintaining safety and order.

When it comes to response capabilities, armed guards are prepared to act in high-threat scenarios, while unarmed guards focus on observing, reporting, and preventing issues before they escalate.

Ultimately, your security solution should match your risk profile. At Citiguard, we assess your location, industry, and concerns before recommending a tailored plan. Whether you need armed protection, unarmed coverage, or a combination of both, we’re here to help you feel secure—day in and day out.

(Five Citiguard security professionals stand in uniform beside a patrol car in a sunny outdoor lot.)

Citiguard Offers Both—With Guidance You Can Trust

At Citiguard, we don’t just provide guards—we provide solutions tailored to your unique risk level, industry, and goals. Our team works closely with each client to assess their site and recommend the right type of coverage.

Here’s how we help:

  • Site Assessments: We review your property layout, operating hours, crime rates, and current safety concerns.
  • Customized Plans: Based on your needs, we recommend armed or unarmed security—or a combination of both.
  • Licensed Professionals: All of our guards, armed or unarmed, meet California’s licensing requirements and complete ongoing training.
  • 24/7 Availability: Whether you need overnight patrols, weekend event security, or long-term coverage, we’re ready.

And most importantly, we make the process simple and stress-free. You don’t need to be a security expert to protect your people—we’ve got that covered for you.

(Close-up of a professional handshake between two individuals in business attire, symbolizing partnership and agreement.)

Your Security Should Fit You

Choosing between armed and unarmed security guard services isn’t just about cost or appearances—it’s about protection, peace of mind, and doing what’s right for your environment.

You want your staff, your customers, and your property to feel safe. Whether that means placing a highly visible armed officer at the entrance or posting a trained unarmed guard to monitor activity discreetly, Citiguard can help you make the best choice.

Ready to talk about your security needs? Reach out to Citiguard today for a free consultation. We’re here to listen, guide, and protect—because your safety is our priority.

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