Global Riot Control Equipment Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

The Global Riot Control Equipment Market has been segmented by Product Type, Application, End-User, and Geography. In terms of product type, the market is divided into offensive equipment and defensive equipment. Offensive equipment includes non-lethal weapons and crowd control devices designed to disperse or incapacitate unruly crowds, such as tear gas, pepper spray, stun grenades, water cannons, and rubber bullets. Defensive equipment encompasses protective gear and riot gear designed to shield law enforcement personnel from physical threats and projectiles, including helmets, body armor, riot shields, and batons. The demand for both offensive and defensive equipment is driven by the need to maintain public order, protect personnel, and ensure the safety and security of civilians during riot situations.

Furthermore, the market can be segmented by end user into law enforcement, military force, and security organizations. Law enforcement agencies represent a significant end user of riot control equipment, tasked with maintaining law and order, managing public protests, and safeguarding communities from civil unrest. Military forces also utilize riot control equipment for crowd management and civil support operations in conflict zones or areas of political instability. Additionally, security organizations, including private security firms, government agencies, and corporate security departments, deploy riot control equipment to protect critical infrastructure, secure public events, and mitigate security threats. The diverse end user base underscores the widespread adoption of riot control equipment across various sectors and highlights the importance of effective crowd management and public safety measures in modern society.

The market can be analyzed by application into public order management and security & protection. Public order management applications involve the use of riot control equipment to maintain peace, manage crowds, and prevent the escalation of violence during protests, demonstrations, and civil disturbances. Security & protection applications encompass a broader range of scenarios, including border security, perimeter protection, crowd control at public events, and counter-terrorism operations. Riot control equipment plays a crucial role in enhancing security measures, deterring potential threats, and mitigating risks in high-risk environments. By segmenting the market based on application, stakeholders can identify specific use cases and tailor their products and solutions to meet the unique requirements of different security and law enforcement scenarios.

Global Riot Control Equipment Segment Analysis

In this report, the Global Riot Control Equipment Market has been segmented by Product Type, Application, End-User, and Geography.

Global Riot Control Equipment Market, Segmentation by Product Type

The Global Riot Control Equipment Market has been segmented by Product Type into Offensive Equipment and Defensive Equipment.

The Global Riot Control Equipment Market is segmented by Product Type into Offensive Equipment and Defensive Equipment, each catering to different aspects of crowd control. Offensive Equipment includes tools and technologies used to subdue or disband crowds in aggressive situations. This category features items such as tear gas, rubber bullets, flashbang grenades, and water cannons. These products are designed to incapacitate or disperse crowds while minimizing long-term injury. Offensive equipment is typically used in high-intensity situations where rapid crowd control is necessary to prevent violence or unrest from escalating.

On the other hand, Defensive Equipment includes tools that are aimed at protecting law enforcement personnel and providing non-lethal means of defense against potentially violent crowds. This category includes riot shields, body armor, helmets, and protective gloves, designed to shield officers from thrown objects, blunt force, or other dangers associated with crowd control. Defensive equipment is essential for ensuring the safety of personnel during operations, especially in volatile environments. Many of these products are lightweight, portable, and designed to offer maximum protection without compromising the officers' ability to move or respond effectively.

Both segments of the market are critical for ensuring public safety and maintaining order during civil disturbances, protests, or riots. The demand for Offensive Equipment often sees a spike in regions with heightened political instability or unrest, whereas Defensive Equipment sees consistent demand across various law enforcement agencies globally, as it is fundamental for the protection of officers. As crowd control tactics continue to evolve, manufacturers are increasingly focusing on developing equipment that is both effective and minimizes harm to civilians and officers alike.

Global Riot Control Equipment Market, Segmentation by Application

The Global Riot Control Equipment Market has been segmented by Application into Public Order Management and Security & Protection.

The Global Riot Control Equipment Market has been segmented by application into Public Order Management and Security & Protection, each addressing different facets of maintaining law and order during civil disturbances. Public order management is a significant application of riot control equipment, focusing on tools and strategies used by law enforcement to maintain order during protests, demonstrations, or civil unrest. This segment involves the deployment of various equipment, such as tear gas, rubber bullets, water cannons, and riot shields, designed to disperse crowds or prevent escalation while minimizing harm. Public order management equipment is crucial for controlling large groups of people, and its use is often closely monitored to balance security concerns with human rights.

The Security & Protection application focuses on the use of riot control equipment for safeguarding critical infrastructure, government buildings, and high-profile events. This segment sees the deployment of equipment not just in riots or protests, but also in counter-terrorism operations and to protect key facilities from potential attacks or sabotage. Security forces use specialized riot control gear such as protective body armor, helicopter surveillance, and sound cannons for crowd control, border security, and the defense of public spaces. With the growing focus on ensuring the safety of citizens, businesses, and government establishments, this segment continues to expand, with an increasing emphasis on non-lethal methods to prevent harm to both security personnel and civilians.

Both applications are expected to grow as global political landscapes shift and as the frequency of large-scale protests and civil disturbances increases, driven by social and economic factors. However, the evolving nature of crowd control tactics, as well as international human rights considerations, is likely to push the development of more advanced and less harmful technologies. These innovations may include equipment focused on reducing the impact on public health and minimizing injury while maintaining effective control over crowds. As a result, the global riot control equipment market is witnessing significant advancements, with manufacturers developing solutions that focus on both effectiveness and compliance with international law enforcement standards.

Global Riot Control Equipment Market, Segmentation by End-User

The Global Riot Control Equipment Market has been segmented by End-User into Law Enforcement, Military Force, and Security Organizations.

The Global Riot Control Equipment Market is segmented by End-User into Law Enforcement, Military Force, and Security Organizations, each of which has distinct needs and requirements when it comes to crowd control tools and equipment. Law Enforcement agencies, including police departments and local security forces, are the primary users of riot control equipment. They rely on a wide range of defensive and offensive tools to manage public order during protests, demonstrations, or civil unrest. Their focus is typically on non-lethal methods for controlling crowds while minimizing harm, as they deal with a wide range of scenarios in urban environments. Law enforcement often uses equipment like rubber bullets, tear gas, riot shields, and protective body armor.

Military Forces use riot control equipment in more extreme situations, often in conflict zones or areas of intense civil disturbance. These forces might face larger, more aggressive crowds, where they need heavy-duty equipment designed for high-intensity confrontations. Military personnel typically use a mix of offensive and defensive equipment, including armored vehicles, long-range crowd dispersal tools, and specialized protective gear. Riot control within military forces is often seen in post-conflict scenarios or in areas where a state of emergency or martial law is declared, requiring more robust crowd control measures compared to law enforcement's everyday operations.

Security Organizations, including private security firms and corporate security teams, also contribute to the market but with a more focused role in non-violent crowd management. These organizations often work in large venues like stadiums, concerts, or at corporate events where crowd control is necessary to prevent disruptions or protect private property. While security organizations may use less advanced or heavy-duty equipment compared to law enforcement and military forces, they still require reliable protective gear, crowd monitoring tools, and non-lethal means of crowd dispersal. The increasing need for security at public and private events globally is pushing the demand for riot control equipment in this sector.

Global Riot Control Equipment Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Global Riot Control Equipment Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and Latin America.

Global Riot Control Equipment Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

In 2022, North America asserted its dominance in the global riot control equipment market, commanding a significant share of around 35%. This leadership position can be attributed to several factors, with technological advancements emerging as a key driver of market growth in the region. The continuous innovation and development of sophisticated non-lethal weapons, advanced protective gear, and cutting-edge surveillance systems have played a pivotal role in propelling the North American market forward. These technological advancements have not only revolutionized the capabilities of riot control equipment but have also elevated the effectiveness and safety of riot control measures undertaken by law enforcement agencies across the region.

One of the most notable aspects of technological innovation in North America's riot control equipment market is the development of advanced non-lethal weapons. These weapons, such as tear gas, pepper spray, rubber bullets, and stun grenades, are designed to incapacitate or disperse unruly crowds without causing permanent harm. Through ongoing research and development efforts, manufacturers have enhanced the precision, range, and effectiveness of these non-lethal weapons, enabling law enforcement agencies to maintain public order while minimizing the risk of casualties and injuries. Additionally, advancements in protective gear have significantly improved the safety and resilience of law enforcement personnel engaged in riot control operations. Modern riot gear includes state-of-the-art helmets, body armor, riot shields, and protective suits designed to withstand physical threats and projectiles. These advanced protective measures not only shield law enforcement officers from harm but also enhance their mobility and comfort during prolonged riot control operations.

Furthermore, North America has been at the forefront of deploying cutting-edge surveillance systems to augment riot control efforts. Advanced technologies such as drones, CCTV cameras, facial recognition software, and crowd monitoring platforms provide law enforcement agencies with real-time intelligence and situational awareness, allowing them to anticipate and respond to potential threats more effectively. By leveraging these surveillance systems, law enforcement agencies can gather crucial data, monitor crowd behavior, and coordinate response strategies with greater precision and efficiency.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Riot Control Equipment Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis

Drivers

• Rising Incidence of Civil Unrest and Public Demonstrations
• Government Investments in Law Enforcement Infrastructure

• Security Concerns and Threats to Critical Infrastructure- Critical infrastructure, including government buildings, transportation hubs, energy facilities, and communication networks, represents prime targets for various threats, including terrorism, sabotage, and civil unrest. The potential disruption or damage to critical infrastructure poses significant security risks and can have far-reaching consequences for public safety, economic stability, and national security. In response to these security concerns, governments, law enforcement agencies, and security organizations prioritize the deployment of riot control equipment to safeguard critical infrastructure and maintain operational continuity in the face of potential threats.

  In addition to physical security measures, riot control equipment also includes communication systems, command and control centers, and emergency response protocols designed to coordinate security operations and manage crisis situations effectively. These integrated solutions enable security forces to respond swiftly to emerging threats, deploy resources efficiently, and maintain situational awareness in complex and dynamic environments.

Restraints

• Budgetary Constraints
• Ethical Considerations

• Public Perception and Civil Liberties- While riot control equipment is designed to maintain public order and ensure the safety of both law enforcement personnel and civilians, its deployment can sometimes be perceived as infringing upon civil liberties and human rights. The use of non-lethal weapons, such as tear gas, rubber bullets, and stun grenades, has sparked controversy and criticism from advocacy groups and civil rights organizations, who argue that these weapons can cause indiscriminate harm and violate individuals' right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression. Moreover, the widespread availability and use of riot control equipment can contribute to a perception of militarization within law enforcement agencies, raising concerns about the erosion of trust between police forces and the communities they serve. The use of heavy-duty protective gear, armored vehicles, and other militarized equipment can create an adversarial dynamic between law enforcement and civilians, potentially escalating tensions and undermining efforts to de-escalate volatile situations.

  The misuse or overuse of riot control equipment by authorities can result in human rights abuses, including excessive use of force, arbitrary arrests, and violations of due process. Instances of police brutality and misconduct during protests and demonstrations have drawn widespread condemnation and scrutiny, highlighting the need for greater accountability and oversight in the use of riot control equipment. Additionally, public perception of riot control equipment can be influenced by factors such as media coverage, social media activism, and historical experiences of state repression. Negative portrayals of law enforcement tactics and the consequences of riot control measures can shape public opinion and erode trust in government institutions, leading to calls for reform and greater transparency in policing practices.

Opportunities

• Technological Advancements
• Focus on Non-Lethal Solutions

• Global Expansion and Market Penetration- As civil unrest and protests occur worldwide, there is a growing need for advanced riot control solutions in various regions, including Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East. By expanding into these markets, companies can tap into new customer bases, capitalize on evolving security dynamics, and capture market share in regions with high growth potential. Moreover, market penetration strategies enable companies to strengthen their foothold in existing markets by increasing their market share, expanding product offerings, and enhancing brand visibility. This may involve forging strategic partnerships with local distributors, law enforcement agencies, and security organizations to improve market reach and accessibility. Additionally, investing in marketing and promotional activities can raise awareness about the company's products and solutions, differentiate them from competitors, and reinforce brand reputation as a trusted provider of riot control equipment.

  Global expansion and market penetration provide opportunities for product diversification and innovation to meet the unique needs and preferences of different regions. This may involve developing customized solutions tailored to specific cultural, regulatory, and operational requirements, such as adapting equipment for use in urban environments, extreme weather conditions, or high-risk areas. By offering a diverse range of products and solutions that cater to the varying demands of global markets, companies can enhance their competitiveness and appeal to a broader customer base.

Key players in Global Riot Control Equipment Market include:

• Axon Enterprise Inc.
• Blackhawk
• Byrna Technologies Inc
• Combined Systems, Inc
• Condor Non-lethal Technologies
• Desert Wolf
• Etienne Lacroix Group
• Genasys, Inc.
• Rheinmetall AG
• Safariland, LLC

In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:

• Company Overview and Product Portfolio
• Key Developments
• Financial Overview
• Strategies
• Company SWOT Analysis