If you’re a business owner in Los Angeles, you already know that real property crime isn’t just a statistic, it’s a daily concern. With LA’s crime rate sitting at approximately 3,115 crimes per 100,000 residents, which is 30% higher than the national average, the question isn’t whether you need security. It’s whether you need armed security.
Here’s what I’ve learned after working with dozens of LA businesses: armed security isn’t about intimidation’s deterrence and rapid response capabilities that unarmed guards simply can’t provide. When you’re protecting high-value assets, handling cash operations, or operating in higher-risk neighborhoods, armed security becomes less of a luxury and more of a necessity.
But here’s the challenge: Los Angeles has hundreds of security companies, and not all are created equal. Some operate with expired licenses, undertrained guards, or inadequate insurance. Others charge premium rates without delivering premium service. In this guide, I’m breaking down exactly what separates the best armed security guard companies from the rest and what you need to know before signing any contract in 2025.
Why Los Angeles Businesses Are Turning to Armed Security
Let’s talk numbers for a moment. According to recent California crime statistics, commercial burglaries remain 6.8% above pre-pandemic levels despite an 8.3% decrease. Retail theft surged by 39% in 2023, and organized retail crime has become a multi-billion-dollar problem across California.
In this environment, armed security guards provide several critical advantages:
Enhanced Deterrence Factor
Criminals conduct risk assessments just like businesses do. The visible presence of armed security significantly increases perceived risk, making your property a harder target. Studies consistently show that criminals choose the path of least resistance and armed guards make that path much harder.
Rapid Response Capabilities
While LAPD response times average 5-8 minutes for priority calls, armed guards are already on-site. In critical situations where seconds matter, active threats, violent confrontations, or armed robbery attempts, having a trained, armed professional present can literally save lives.
Asset Protection at Scale
If you’re protecting jewelry stores, cannabis dispensaries, financial institutions, high-value equipment, or large cash operations, armed security isn’t just recommended, often required by insurance carriers. The cost of armed security pales in comparison to potential losses from a single incident.
What Makes an Armed Security Company “The Best”?
1. Proven Track Record in High-Risk Environments
The best companies don’t just have armed guards, they have armed guards with relevant experience. Look for companies whose guards have backgrounds in law enforcement, military service, or executive protection. At OnGuard Security, for example, our armed security team includes former police officers and military veterans with real-world tactical experience.
2. Comprehensive Training Beyond State Minimums
BSIS requirements are minimums, not standards of excellence. Top-tier companies invest in ongoing training, including:
- De-escalation techniques: Using firearms should always be the last resort
- Active shooter response: Advanced threat assessment and neutralization
- Legal liability training: Understanding use-of-force continuum and California law
- Scenario-based exercises: Regular drills simulating real-world threats
- Customer service integration: Armed doesn’t mean unapproachable
3. Advanced Insurance Coverage
Armed security carries significantly higher liability exposure. The best companies maintain:
- General liability coverage of $2-5 million (minimum)
- Umbrella policies covering catastrophic incidents
- Weapons liability coverage specifically for armed guards
- Workers’ compensation with law enforcement endorsements
Always request and verify certificates of insurance directly from the insurer. Make sure your business can be named as an additional insured party.
4. Transparent Operational Protocols
Exceptional armed security companies document everything:
- Rules of engagement: Clear protocols for when and how firearms can be deployed
- Escalation procedures: Step-by-step response to various threat levels
- Communication systems: Real-time connectivity with supervisors and law enforcement
- Incident reporting: Detailed documentation of every significant event
- Weapons accountability: Check-in/check-out systems with tamper-proof logs
5. Technology Integration
Modern armed security leverages technology for enhanced effectiveness:
- Body-worn cameras for accountability and evidence
- GPS tracking and patrol verification systems
- Real-time digital reporting accessible 24/7
- Integration with client surveillance and alarm systems
- Mobile panic buttons and emergency alert systems
Understanding Armed Security Costs in Los Angeles
Let’s address the elephant in the room: armed security isn’t cheap, but it shouldn’t break your budget either. In Los Angeles, expect to pay:
Current Market Rates (2025)
- Standard armed guards: $50-$70 per hour
- Highly experienced armed guards: $70-$95+ per hour
- Executive protection specialists: $100+ per hour
- Armed mobile patrol: $60-$90 per hour
For 24/7 coverage with two armed guards, businesses typically budget $250,000-$400,000 annually. Yes, that’s significant, consider it against potential losses from a single robbery, lawsuit, or security breach.
What Affects Pricing?
- Guard experience level: Law enforcement/military backgrounds command premium rates
- Neighborhood risk assessment: Higher-crime areas require more experienced personnel
- Shift timing: Overnight and weekend shifts typically cost 15-20% more
- Response requirements: Immediate deployment capabilities increase costs
- Technology integration: Body cams, GPS tracking, and advanced reporting systems add value
Hidden Costs to Clarify Upfront
Ask about these potential add-ons before signing:
- Uniform and equipment fees
- Weapons maintenance and ammunition costs
- Holiday premium rates (can be 1.5x-2x normal rates)
- Minimum shift length requirements (4-8 hours common)
- Emergency call-out fees for unscheduled coverage
Key Questions to Ask Armed Security Companies
Come prepared with these essential questions during your evaluation:
About Licensing and Compliance
- What’s your BSIS license number and firearms endorsement? (Verify it yourself at BSIS.ca.gov)
- Can you provide proof of current firearms training facility certification?
- Have you had any BSIS complaints or disciplinary actions?
- How do you handle guard requalification and continuing education?
About Guard Selection and Training
- What percentage of your armed guards have law enforcement or military backgrounds?
- What’s your hiring process and background check protocol?
- What ongoing training do armed guards receive beyond state requirements?
- How often do guards requalify on the range?
- What’s your average armed guard tenure?
About Insurance and Liability
- What’s your general liability coverage amount?
- Do you carry specific weapons liability insurance?
- Can we be named as additional insured on your policy?
- How do you handle incident investigations and claims?
Industries That Benefit Most from Armed Security in LA
While any business can benefit from armed security, certain industries see exceptional ROI:
Cannabis Dispensaries
Armed security is often legally required and critically important given cash-heavy operations and federal banking restrictions. Expect a 24/7 armed presence as standard.
Jewelry Stores and High-Value Retail
Smash-and-grab robberies have increased dramatically. Armed guards provide both deterrence and rapid response when seconds count.
Financial Institutions
Banks, credit unions, and check-cashing businesses face elevated robbery risks. Armed security protects staff, customers, and assets simultaneously.
Manufacturing Facilities with Valuable Equipment
Copper theft, equipment theft, and industrial espionage make armed security essential for high-value manufacturing and distribution centers.
Healthcare Facilities
Emergency departments and psychiatric facilities face increasing violence against staff. Armed security provides critical protection while maintaining professional environments.
Why OnGuard Security Stands Out in Los Angeles
At OnGuard Security, we’ve spent over 8 years protecting Los Angeles businesses with armed security solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs. What sets us apart:
- Fully licensed and insured: BSIS-compliant with comprehensive liability coverage
- Experienced personnel: Armed guards with law enforcement and military backgrounds
- 24/7 availability: Round-the-clock management support and emergency response
- Industry specialization: Proven expertise across corporate, retail, healthcare, and industrial sectors
- Competitive pricing: Premium service without premium-gouging prices
- Modern technology: Body cameras, GPS tracking, and real-time digital reporting
- Customized security plans: No cookie-cutter approach client gets tailored solutions
We understand that choosing armed security is a significant decision. That’s why we offer complimentary security assessments to help you understand your actual risks and appropriate protection levels.
Making Your Final Decision
Selecting an armed security company in Los Angeles requires careful evaluation, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow this approach:
- Verify BSIS licensing first: Non-negotiable starting point
- Check insurance coverage: Request and verify COIs
- Evaluate guard experience: Ask about backgrounds and training
- Review operational protocols: Understand rules of engagement
- Compare total value: Not just hourly rates
- Request references: Speak with current clients in similar industries
- Start with a trial period: Test the relationship before long-term commitment
Remember: armed security is an investment in protection, not an expense to minimize. The difference between a mediocre company and an exceptional one could literally be life-or-death in a critical situation.
Ready to discuss armed security for your Los Angeles business? Contact OnGuard Security today for a complimentary security assessment. Our team is available 24/7 to answer questions and provide expert guidance on protecting what matters most to you.