Fear & Loading: Safariland Armor Saves No. 2000

by
posted on January 5, 2018
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
saves.jpg

For 45 years Safariland Group, through its Saves Club, has recognized officers who have survived a life-threatening incident while wearing the company’s armor or protective gear. Late last year New Castle, Ind., K-9 police officer Brandy Pierce became the 2000th member.

On Sept. 24, 2017, officer Pierce and her K-9, Lex, responded to a call of someone breaking into vehicles. The suspect fled on a bicycle when the officer arrived, but the escape attempt was stopped after she released the dog. When she approached to apprehend the subject, however, he shot her in the chest with a handgun at close range. Safariland’s level II armor stopped the bullet and allowed her to stay in the fight.

She was treated at the hospital and has returned to full duty. “As an officer, it’s something you prepare for an understand it a daily possibility,” she said. “Every day, when I put on my armor, I’m reminded of what could have been without its protection, and I’m grateful to still be here to continue the work that I do.”

“We are humbled to recognize these brave men and women such as officer Pierce, who put their lives on the line every day,” said Scott O’Brien, president of Safariland. “Working with our partners, we continue to innovate and engineer best-in-class armor products to protect those who protest us. We truly live by our Company mission, ‘Together, We Save Lives,’ and our goal is to ensure those wearing our products return home to their families after their shifts.”

Armor Technical Specialist and Saves Club Manager for Safariland, Ed Hinchey said, “Two-thousand lives saved with our armor is an incredible milestone, but these individuals are much more than just a number to us. We are honored to say they have become part of the Safariland family and serve as daily reminders that what we do makes a difference.”

Latest

Christensen Rifles factory floor
Christensen Rifles factory floor

Building Christensen Rifles: A Hands-On View

A cutting-edge enterprise takes on the lightweight-hunting-rifle market with models that defy expectations—all without flinching.

New For 2026: 25 WBY RPM

The 25 WBY RPM is the 17th proprietary cartridge developed by Weatherby, a company whose name is synonymous with magnum cartridges and bullet speed.

Firearm Industry Philanthropic Efforts Endure, Despite Lagging Gun Sales

Gun sales in 2025 may not eclipse records, but the firearm industry’s generosity continues to abound, even within challenging economic circumstances.

Product : Ten21 Tactical “The Junk Drawer” Tripod Hammock

Precision shooters using tripods to support their rifles can keep miscellaneous gear organized and within reach by attaching The Junk Drawer by Ten21 Tactical to the tripod’s legs.

Review: SAR USA SAR9 SOCOM Compact

The SAR9 SOCOM Compact from SAR USA packs popular tactical features into a compact package.

A Jakl In Bullpup Clothing: Palmetto State Armory's Olcan

Palmetto State Armory adapted its piston-driven Jakl rifle design into a bullpup configuration it calls the Olcan.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.