5 Types of Security Guards

November 15, 2022

Security is becoming more of a necessity every day in today's world. One of the best ways to enhance security is by hiring well trained and professional security guards.

In recent years, the security guard industry has significantly grown. Security Officers have various levels of training, and this article highlights five types of security guards in the industry.

1. Armed Security Guards

Armed security guards carry firearms or other lethal weapons. Depending on the level of the threat or the value of property, armed security officers may be the better option.

Since armed security guards carry firearms, they must undergo additional training. During the training sessions, the guards learn how to use the weapons responsibly to avoid causing unnecessary accidents, and the local firearm laws.

Hiring an armed security guard can be relatively expensive. However, hiring these professionals may be necessary depending on the level of the threat.

2. Unarmed Guards

Unarmed security guards are guards who do not carry firearms or other weapons during work.

Although these security guards are unarmed, this does not mean that their services are less effective. A professional well trained security officer can be an excellent and effective deterrent.

Generally, hiring an unarmed security guard is less expensive compared to hiring their armed counterparts. Depending on your level of threat, unarmed security guards may be the best option.

3. Residential Guards

Residential burglaries are on the rise, often resulting in theft and the potential for harm to the individuals present. As a result, the hiring of residential security guards have increased significantly over the years.

Residential guards duties can consist of access control, patrolling the property and or neighborhood, and often times, they are the first responders.

4. Event Guards

Whenever large crowds gather, security may become necessary. People usually hire security guards when they hold large events, including concerts, sporting events, or even conferences. These professionals are trained to coordinate with other event staff and guards to ensure the area is secure.

Hiring event security guards offers several advantages. First, these professionals can assist with vehicle and pedestrian traffic control.. These guards also serve as a great deterrent with their physical presence.

Often, event security guards wear uniforms so people can easily spot them unless the guards work undercover.

5. Bodyguards

Bodyguards, also known as Executive Protection Specialists, are security officers tasked with offering security to one person or family. Executive Protection Specialists usually provide security to high-profile individuals, celebrities, dignitaries, and politicians. Some renowned business individuals also hire bodyguards to protect them.

Executive Protection Specialists typically undergo rigorous training on firearm usage, evasive driving, and self defense. They are also trained to maintain client relationships, quickly assess situations and to make split second decisions.

If you require any of the services mentioned above, Spear Security can help. Reach out to us today to learn more about the security services we offer. We look forward to helping you.

< Older Post Newer Post >

Private Security Company vs. In-House Guards: What Los Angeles Businesses Save and Risk

October 23, 2026

Running a business in Los Angeles means dealing with a lot of moving parts, and security is one that too many owners put off until something goes wrong. When that moment comes, the question is almost always the same: should you build your own in-house security team, or bring in a professional firm? The answer isn’t as obvious as it looks on paper. The Real Cost of Going In-House Hiring your own guards sounds simple until you actually try it. You’re not just paying an hourly wage — you’re covering recruitment, background checks, licensing, uniforms, payroll taxes, workers’ comp, liability insurance, and ongoing training. And in a city like Los Angeles, where turnover in entry-level roles is high, you’ll likely be doing that hiring process more than once a year. There’s also the management burden. Someone on your team now has to supervise guards, handle call-outs, build schedules, and deal with HR issues — on top of whatever job they were actually hired to do. For most small and mid-sized businesses, that’s a quiet drain on time and focus that doesn’t show up on a spreadsheet. Where Outsourcing Pulls Ahead This is exactly why so many businesses end up working with private security guard companies in Los Angeles instead of building their own teams from scratch. A reputable firm already carries the licensing, insurance, and liability coverage required under California law, so that risk sits with them, not you. Guards come pre-trained, pre-vetted, and ready to rotate in if someone calls out sick — no scrambling, no coverage gaps. Cost-wise, it’s often more predictable too. You’re paying for a service contract rather than absorbing the hidden expenses that come with employment. And because private security guard companies in Los Angeles manage staffing across multiple clients, they can flex coverage up or down based on your actual needs — something that’s nearly impossible to do with a small in-house crew. The Trade-Off Worth Understanding Outsourcing isn’t without its own considerations. You’re trusting an outside company with your site, your staff, and sometimes your reputation, so vetting the firm matters just as much as vetting an employee would. The businesses that get the best results tend to choose private security guard companies in Los Angeles with a long operating history, verifiable licensing, and guards who are trained specifically for the type of property or event being protected. For most Los Angeles businesses, the math favors partnering with an established firm over building an internal team. Spear Security has spent more than 30 years protecting properties, businesses, and events across Southern California, offering trained, licensed guards without the overhead of running security in-house. Spear Security | (323) 962-7515 | info@spearsecurity.com | 1642 North Cahuenga Blvd. Suite 201, Hollywood, CA 90028 | spearsecurity.com

Private Security Guard Companies in Los Angeles

Licensed & Insured: What Makes a Private Security Firm Trustworthy in Los Angeles

September 23, 2026

Learn what makes a private security firm trustworthy in Los Angeles, from proper licensing and insurance to trained guards, experience, and reliable service.

How Much Do Security Guard Services Cost in Los Angeles in 2026?

August 22, 2026

Get security guard service costs in Los Angeles in 2026, including hourly rates, pricing factors, and what to consider when hiring professional guards.

Top 7 Industries in Los Angeles That Need Professional Security Guard Services

July 24, 2026

Explore the top 7 industries in Los Angeles that need professional security guard services to protect people, property, assets, and businesses.

The Silent Strength of Unarmed Security: Deterrence, The invisible shield that keeps the peace

July 1, 2026

Explore the silent strength of unarmed security and how their presence prevents incidents, enhances safety, and maintains peace every day.

Workplace Violence Prevention Law

August 1, 2024

Effective July 1st, 2024: California has enacted a new workplace violence prevention law, SB 553/California Labor Code Section 6401.9 , which requires nearly all California employers to develop and implement a written workplace violence prevention plan.