1990s Royal Ulster Constabulary (RUC) Riot Gear Shield, Helmet & Leg Protectors

1990s Royal Ulster Constabulary (RUC) Riot Gear – Shield, Helmet & Leg Protectors

Original public-order equipment set comprising riot shield, helmet and limb protection, consistent with items used by the RUC during the later years of the Troubles and early PSNI transition period.

Shield
Manufacturer: Civil Defence Supply (International) Ltd
Model: “Armadillo” Personal Protection Shield
Dimensions: 1800 × 570 × 3 mm (as per label)
Label present (faded) – date appears to read 18/10/92

This is a full-length, interlocking style shield designed for shield-line formations and controlled forward movement, typical of Northern Ireland public-order policing in the 1980s–1990s.

Condition:
Visible operational wear throughout
Noticeable discolouration and scorching to the lower section, consistent with exposure to heat/fire during use
Surface scuffs and scratches from service use

Helmet

UK police public-order helmet
Marked PAS 017:1997 – ARGUS
Dark blue shell with full visor and neck guard

Typical late-1990s police riot helmet meeting recognised UK public-order standards.
Condition:
General wear including surface scratches
Visor in used but serviceable condition

Leg Protectors
Manufacturer: PROTECOP (France)
Marked: “PROTECOP – MODÈLE DÉPOSÉ”
Full set including upper and lower leg protection

Designed for public-order use, providing impact protection to lower limbs during crowd-control situations.
Condition:
Very good overall condition
Straps and fixings intact

Armadillo-style long shields saw extensive use in Northern Ireland from the late 1970s through the 1990s, particularly in organised shield formations during public-order operations.

Armadillo riot shields were used in Northern Ireland from the late 1970s / early 1980s through the end of the Troubles and into the early PSNI era—with peak use in the 1980s and 1990s.

The yellow print on the label is very faded. The date appears to be 18/10/92 which is in keeping with the type of label - shields from the 1980s were commonly hand written, labels from the late 1990s had barcodes and from 2000+ the serials were etched on. During this period the RUC conducted regular public‑order operations. Long rectangular interlocking riot shields were specifically for shield walls and forward advances.