Let’s Dive into Pro-Gard Industries Charcoal Grey Abs, Standard Transpt Seat Straight Back W/ 1/4″ Poly. Window Cargo Barrier & Seat Mount. Kit
The Pro-Gard Industries Charcoal Grey Abs, Standard Transpt Seat Straight Back W/ 1/4″ Poly. Window Cargo Barrier & Seat Mount. Kit is a product designed for law enforcement and security vehicles, aiming to enhance officer safety and prisoner transport. Pro-Gard Industries offers a range of vehicle partitions, and this specific kit offers a combination of a durable ABS plastic barrier, a transparent polycarbonate window, and a robust seat mount system, all finished in a subtle charcoal grey. This kit promises to provide a secure separation between the front and rear compartments while maintaining visibility and ease of installation.
My journey to this product started with a need expressed by a local Sheriff’s department. They were seeking a more robust and easily maintainable solution for their transport vehicles, something that offered both security and clear visibility. The existing wire mesh barriers in their patrol cars were proving difficult to clean and offered limited protection against unruly detainees.
Upon unboxing the Pro-Gard Industries kit, I was immediately struck by the apparent durability of the ABS plastic. The charcoal grey finish presented a professional, low-profile appearance, a welcome change from the often industrial-looking metal alternatives. The polycarbonate window, while seemingly thin at 1/4 inch, felt surprisingly sturdy and offered excellent clarity.
I considered several other options, including metal mesh barriers and full polycarbonate partitions. However, the ABS plastic construction of the Pro-Gard Industries kit promised greater ease of cleaning and resistance to dents and scratches, crucial for high-use vehicles. The integrated seat mount kit was also a significant draw, promising a simpler and more secure installation process than universal fit alternatives.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The materials felt high-quality, and the design seemed well-thought-out, but I reserved final judgment until I could assess its performance in a real-world installation and use scenario. The price point of $1629.00 felt substantial, so it needed to prove its worth.
Real-World Testing: Putting Pro-Gard Industries Charcoal Grey Abs, Standard Transpt Seat Straight Back W/ 1/4″ Poly. Window Cargo Barrier & Seat Mount. Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
The initial testing involved the installation of the Pro-Gard Industries barrier in a 2018 Ford Interceptor Sedan. The included seat mount kit made the process relatively straightforward, taking about two hours with basic hand tools. The instructions were clear, and the components aligned well with the vehicle’s interior.
The 1/4″ Polycarbonate window provided excellent visibility with minimal distortion, allowing the officers to monitor the rear compartment effectively. The rigid ABS plastic dampened noise significantly compared to the previously installed metal mesh barrier, creating a calmer environment for both the officers and the transported individuals. There was a minor gap between the barrier and the roof lining, which needed some additional weather stripping to fully seal.
After the first week of use, the officers noted a marked improvement in the ease of cleaning the rear compartment. Spills and other messes wiped away quickly from the smooth ABS surface, reducing cleaning time significantly. The straight back design maximized legroom for the transported individuals, a consideration that was appreciated.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of intensive daily use, the Pro-Gard Industries cargo barrier has held up remarkably well. The charcoal grey ABS plastic shows no signs of fading or discoloration, and there are no visible scratches or dents. The 1/4″ polycarbonate window remains clear and free of cracks or hazing, even after repeated cleanings with various disinfectants.
The seat mount kit has remained secure, with no loosening of bolts or shifting of the barrier. The barrier has been exposed to extreme temperatures ranging from below freezing to well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and the materials have shown no signs of warping or degradation. Regular cleaning with standard automotive cleaning products has been sufficient to maintain its appearance.
Compared to previous experiences with metal mesh barriers, the Pro-Gard Industries kit significantly outperforms in terms of durability, ease of cleaning, and noise reduction. The initial investment appears to be justified by the long-term benefits of improved officer safety and vehicle maintenance. However, a minor rattle developed near the seat mount after the first month, requiring a quick tightening of a bolt.
Breaking Down the Features of Pro-Gard Industries Charcoal Grey Abs, Standard Transpt Seat Straight Back W/ 1/4″ Poly. Window Cargo Barrier & Seat Mount. Kit
Specifications
- Material: The barrier is constructed from durable charcoal grey ABS plastic, known for its impact resistance and ease of cleaning. The window is made from 1/4″ thick polycarbonate, chosen for its high impact strength and transparency.
- Design: The barrier features a straight back design, maximizing legroom in the rear compartment. A transparent polycarbonate window allows for clear visibility between the front and rear of the vehicle.
- Mounting: The kit includes a seat mount kit specifically designed for easy and secure installation in compatible vehicles. This ensures a stable and rattle-free installation.
- Color: The charcoal grey finish provides a professional and low-profile appearance, blending well with most vehicle interiors. This reduces glare and enhances the overall aesthetics of the vehicle.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the safety, comfort, and longevity of the product. The durable materials ensure that the barrier can withstand the rigors of daily use in a law enforcement environment, while the thoughtfully engineered design ensures ease of installation and optimal visibility.
Performance & Functionality
The Pro-Gard Industries Charcoal Grey Abs, Standard Transpt Seat Straight Back W/ 1/4″ Poly. Window Cargo Barrier & Seat Mount. Kit performs its primary function of separating the front and rear compartments of a vehicle exceptionally well. It provides a physical barrier that enhances officer safety and prevents unauthorized access to the front of the vehicle.
The 1/4″ polycarbonate window offers a clear and unobstructed view of the rear compartment, allowing officers to monitor transported individuals effectively. The ABS plastic construction reduces noise levels and provides a more comfortable environment for both officers and those being transported. However, additional sound deadening material may be needed for extremely loud individuals.
The kit meets and exceeds expectations in terms of durability, ease of cleaning, and visibility. While the installation process requires some mechanical skill, the included seat mount kit simplifies the process significantly. A minor drawback is the potential for small gaps between the barrier and the vehicle’s interior, requiring additional weather stripping to seal completely.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Pro-Gard Industries barrier is excellent, with high-quality materials and precise construction. The charcoal grey ABS plastic is both durable and lightweight, contributing to a comfortable and secure installation. The weight of the barrier is manageable for a single person during installation.
The design is user-friendly, with a straight back that maximizes legroom and a transparent window that provides excellent visibility. There is a slight learning curve associated with the installation process, but the included instructions are clear and comprehensive. The lack of sharp edges or protruding hardware ensures the safety of both officers and transported individuals.
Durability & Maintenance
The Pro-Gard Industries barrier is designed to last for many years with proper care and maintenance. The ABS plastic is resistant to impacts, scratches, and chemical damage, ensuring long-term durability. The 1/4″ polycarbonate window is also highly durable and resistant to cracking or hazing.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only regular cleaning with standard automotive cleaning products. The smooth ABS surface is easy to wipe down and disinfect, making it ideal for high-use vehicles. The seat mount kit is designed to be robust and maintenance-free, with minimal risk of loosening or failure.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Pro-Gard Industries Charcoal Grey Abs, Standard Transpt Seat Straight Back W/ 1/4″ Poly. Window Cargo Barrier & Seat Mount. Kit comes with all the necessary hardware for installation, including the seat mount kit and mounting bolts. There are limited customization options available directly from Pro-Gard Industries.
However, the barrier is compatible with various aftermarket accessories, such as additional sound deadening material, window tinting films, and custom seat covers. The universal design allows for the addition of communication systems, camera mounts, and other specialized equipment. Compatibility with accessories from other brands is generally good, as long as they are designed for use with standard vehicle interiors.
Pros and Cons of Pro-Gard Industries Charcoal Grey Abs, Standard Transpt Seat Straight Back W/ 1/4″ Poly. Window Cargo Barrier & Seat Mount. Kit
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: The ABS plastic construction and 1/4″ polycarbonate window are designed to withstand the rigors of daily use in law enforcement vehicles.
- Easy to Clean: The smooth ABS surface is easy to wipe down and disinfect, reducing cleaning time and improving hygiene.
- Improved Visibility: The transparent polycarbonate window provides a clear and unobstructed view of the rear compartment.
- Noise Reduction: The ABS plastic dampens noise levels, creating a more comfortable environment for both officers and transported individuals.
- Secure Installation: The included seat mount kit ensures a stable and rattle-free installation.
Cons
- Potential Gaps: There may be small gaps between the barrier and the vehicle’s interior, requiring additional weather stripping to seal completely.
- Price Point: The initial investment of $1629.00 is substantial compared to some alternatives, although the long-term benefits may justify the cost.
Who Should Buy Pro-Gard Industries Charcoal Grey Abs, Standard Transpt Seat Straight Back W/ 1/4″ Poly. Window Cargo Barrier & Seat Mount. Kit?
The Pro-Gard Industries Charcoal Grey Abs, Standard Transpt Seat Straight Back W/ 1/4″ Poly. Window Cargo Barrier & Seat Mount. Kit is perfect for law enforcement agencies, security companies, and any organization that requires secure and reliable prisoner transport. It’s also a good fit for fleet managers looking for a durable and easy-to-maintain solution for their vehicles.
Individuals looking for a budget-friendly option or those who only need a temporary solution might want to skip this product. Those with vehicles that are not compatible with the included seat mount kit should also consider alternative solutions.
A must-have accessory is high-quality weather stripping to seal any gaps between the barrier and the vehicle’s interior. Additionally, consider adding a small fan or ventilation system to improve airflow in the rear compartment.
Conclusion on Pro-Gard Industries Charcoal Grey Abs, Standard Transpt Seat Straight Back W/ 1/4″ Poly. Window Cargo Barrier & Seat Mount. Kit
The Pro-Gard Industries Charcoal Grey Abs, Standard Transpt Seat Straight Back W/ 1/4″ Poly. Window Cargo Barrier & Seat Mount. Kit is a well-designed and highly durable solution for enhancing officer safety and prisoner transport in law enforcement vehicles. The ABS plastic construction, transparent polycarbonate window, and secure seat mount kit combine to create a reliable and easy-to-maintain product.
The price is justified by the long-term benefits of improved durability, ease of cleaning, and enhanced visibility. I would personally recommend this product to any organization that prioritizes the safety and well-being of its officers and the security of its vehicles.
If you’re looking for a robust and reliable cargo barrier for your law enforcement vehicle, the Pro-Gard Industries kit is an excellent choice. Invest in safety and security – you won’t regret it.
