How to Put a Strap on a Cardboard Riot Shield

Cardboard riot shields should have straps similar to real riot shields.

Cardboard shields are often used in airsoft for protection from incoming shots, and simpler versions are used by children who want a prop for their make-believe games. A riot shield, the modern equivalent of the tower shields used in the past, is a tall, slightly curved shield meant to cover most of the holder for protection. Adding arm straps is one of the most important parts, because that will determine how comfortable the shield will be to carry.

Things You'll Need

• Duct tape
• Measuring tape
• Cardboard shield

Instructions

1. Measure the distance from the user's fist to his elbow. Generally speaking, when you're holding a riot shield you should have your entire forearm braced between the straps horizontally, so that's the distance that the straps should be apart. Also make sure that the straps are wide enough to accommodate the holder's fist and the bulge of the forearm just before the elbow.

2. Make two rings of duct tape with the sticky side out and press them against the shield. If the holder is right-handed, the fist loop should go on the right side of the shield and the arm loop should go on the left, because it will be the left arm in the shield. Take smaller pieces of duct tape and cover the sticky side of the straps so that the shield now has duct tape straps. Additional pieces of duct tape may be placed through the bottom of the strap, holding it against the shield for additional reinforcement.

3. Pick up the cardboard riot shield and hold it. Move your arm to test how well the shield fits and how heavy it is. Once you're satisfied that it works for you, it's complete and ready to be used.

References

• A5OG: Paintball Riot Shield