The Best Walkie Talkies for Security Teams: What UK Guards Really Need
When it comes to keeping safety-related operations running smoothly, choosing the right walkie talkies for security is crucial. Whether you’re managing events, patrolling large sites, or safeguarding venues, reliable two-way radios with strong security features can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll break down some of the best models on the market and what you should look for to keep your team safe, connected, and in control.
Best Walkie Talkies for Security Teams
Kenwood TK-3701D features for security use
Security teams just need devices they can count on for clear and confidential communication. The Kenwood TK-3701D delivers exactly this with advanced security features. It has AES/DES encryption capabilities that give you secure and private communication. This encryption helps security guards share sensitive information without worrying about interception.
The radio’s black box design is intuitive with a large textured push-to-talk button you can easily use even with gloves on. On top of that, it has two programmable buttons that let security personnel quickly access their most-used functions.
The TK-3701D’s VOX (Voice Activation) feature lets you transmit without pushing any buttons during security patrols. This becomes really helpful when guards need to keep their eyes on the surroundings or use other equipment.
The radio’s versatility shines with its 48 preset channels across three zones—two digital zones with 32 channels and one analogue zone holding 16 channels. Security teams can coordinate different units or locations efficiently with this channel setup without needing multiple devices.
The TK-3701D also comes with:
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- Built-in voice scrambler to boost communication security
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- Selectable 7-colour LED indicator for different status alerts and unit identification
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- Second PTT (Push-to-Talk) button to use both main and secondary channels
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- Voice announcements for channel changes—great for security operations in dark conditions
The radio supports both PMR446 analogue and DPMR446 digital modes, letting security teams switch between them as needed. Digital mode gives you crystal-clear audio with less background noise—a vital feature when security personnel need to hear commands clearly in noisy places.
Kenwood TK-3701D battery life
Battery reliability is vital for security operations that run through long shifts. The Kenwood TK-3701D uses a high-capacity Li-ion battery (KNB-45L) that runs impressively long. The device stays connected for about 18 hours on standby (with 5% transmit, 5% receive, and 90% standby), so security guards don’t have to worry about power issues during extended duty periods.
The KNB-45L battery lasts up to 16 hours with the battery save function. Even without battery save, you still get 15 hours of solid performance. Security personnel can work the longest shifts without charging or swapping batteries.
Your TK-3701D package has:
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- The 2000mAh Li-Ion KNB-45L battery
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- A dedicated battery charger
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- A handy belt clip
The radio alerts security guards when the battery runs low, so you won’t face unexpected communication blackouts during critical situations. Teams can plan their battery changes or charging without risking communication loss.
Kenwood TK-3701D durability and range
Security work can be tough on equipment, so communication devices need to be durable. The Kenwood TK-3701D’s “industrial strength” construction meets military standards MIL-STD 810 C, D, E, F, and G, giving you exceptional toughness and reliability.
The TK-3701D’s IP55 rating means it resists impact and stays protected against water jets and dust. Security teams can rely on these devices even in bad weather or challenging environments.
The radio stays compact at 123mm height, 54mm width, and 33.5mm depth, weighing just 280g with the battery. This slim design makes it easy to carry and hide, reducing strain during long security shifts.
Digital mode improves range by a lot. The dPMR446 digital modulation technology makes reception better in fringe areas, extending coverage up to 20% more than analogue operation. Security teams covering large properties will find this extra range really useful.
The TK-3701D excels in sound output with:
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- AMBE+2 vocoder for natural voice reproduction
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- BTL audio amplifier pushing powerful 1-watt output
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- Enhanced Kenwood Audio for quality transmissions
These audio features help security personnel hear commands clearly even in noisy places.
Kenwood TK-3701D licensing and compliance
Security operations love the Kenwood TK-3701D because it’s licence-free. This UHF digital radio works on PMR446 frequencies, letting security teams communicate without expensive licensing hassles. You can deploy it quickly without ongoing regulatory concerns.
The radio uses free public frequencies, known as PMR446 channels. You might experience interference from other licence-free radios nearby. Security teams wanting more privacy can use programmable ‘code’ options for secure communications.
The TK-3701D works with both dPMR446 digital and PMR446 analogue standards, following the dPMR standard in ETSI TS 102 490. Digital mode gives you 254 common ID codes to change for each channel, adding security and organisation options.
The TK-3701D works right out of the box. You get:
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- Kenwood TK-3701D transceiver unit
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- Rechargeable battery
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- Battery charger with mains adapter
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- Belt clip
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- User guide
Security companies moving from analogue to digital communication will find the TK-3701D perfect. You can keep using existing analogue equipment while upgrading to digital technology.
The Kenwood TK-3701D gives security professionals a modern communication solution that packs advanced features, solid durability, reliable battery life, and easy compliance into one compact device.
Kenwood NX-3220E / NX-3320E
The Kenwood NX-3220E / NX-3320E series brings a major step forward in two-way radio technology, giving professional security teams excellent versatility. Security operations can rely on this multi-protocol radio system that works great with both digital and analogue communications.
Kenwood NX-3220E features for security use
The NX-3220E excels with its protocol flexibility. Security teams can use NXDN and DMR digital protocols along with FM analogue operation on this advanced device. This lets security companies slowly upgrade from older systems while keeping all functions working. Companies of all sizes with different communication setups find this multi-protocol support really valuable.
Security staff can work hands-free thanks to the built-in Bluetooth that blends with compatible headsets through HSP (Headset Profile). Guards can keep talking while their hands stay free for other tasks.
The radio’s built-in GPS receiver/antenna makes tracking locations simple. Security managers can track their fleet better and know exactly where each guard is positioned.
The NX-3220E also comes with several security-focused features:
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- Built-in motion sensor for man-down, stationary, and motion detection alerts
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- Optional DES and AES encryption for secure communications
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- Active Noise Reduction (ANR) using built-in DSP for crystal-clear audio
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- 7-colour light bar indicator for visual status notifications
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- Emergency call functionality with priority override
A 4-way directional pad (D-pad) and 4-line display showing 14 characters per line make up the control interface. Guards can work the functions easily with this user-friendly layout, which cuts down training time and mistakes.
Teams can share quiet messages when they can’t talk out loud. The display fits a 5-line text message frame with 3 lines of text plus icon and key guide.
Kenwood NX-3220E battery life
Security teams need reliable communication during long shifts, so battery life really matters. The NX-3220E gives you different battery choices based on what you need.
The standard KNB-55L battery (1,480 mAh) runs for about 8 hours in FDMA conventional mode and 9.5 hours in TDMA mode. Teams working longer shifts can pick the high-capacity KNB-57L (2,000 mAh) battery that lasts about 11 hours in FDMA mode and 13.5 hours in TDMA mode.
The KNB-78L (2,860 mAh) battery handles the toughest jobs with 17.5 hours in FDMA conventional mode and 25 hours in TDMA conventional mode. Guards stay connected through the longest shifts without worrying about power.
These battery times assume you’re transmitting 5%, receiving 5%, and on standby 90% of the time. Most security work involves mostly listening with occasional talking, so these numbers match real-world use pretty well.
Kenwood NX-3220E durability and range
The NX-3220E stands up to rough conditions that security work often brings. It meets IP54, IP55, and IP67 protection standards against dust and water.
The IP67 rating means it works even after sitting in 1 metre of water for 30 minutes – perfect for outdoor security or places with water risks.
The radio also passes tough MIL-STD-810 C/D/E/F/G military standards. These cover everything from shock and vibration to extreme temperatures and pressure changes.
Guards can use it in temperatures from -30°C to +60°C. This works great for winter patrols or summer crowd control.
The radio stays compact at 56.0 x 119.6 x 36.4 mm with the standard KNB-55L battery and weighs 315g. Guards can carry it all shift without getting tired.
One watt of audio power means clear sound even in noisy places like public venues or industrial areas. Kenwood’s active noise reduction helps make sure everyone hears security instructions clearly no matter what’s going on around them.
Kenwood NX-3220E licensing and compliance
The NX-3220E works in the 136-174 MHz range, which falls in the VHF band that’s great for medium to long-range talks. This range works perfectly for big areas like campuses, shopping centres, or factories.
You get 260 channels spread across 128 zones, which fits complex security operations with lots of teams. You can even expand to 1,000 channels if you need more.
Digital mode supports 12.5 kHz (wide) and 6.25 kHz (narrow) channel spacing. Analogue mode works with 25 kHz, 20 kHz, and 12.5 kHz spacing, so it plays nice with older equipment.
DMR Tier II conventional and site roaming come standard. You can add DMR Tier III trunking by buying the KWD-3302TR licence. This lets security companies buy just what they need and save money upfront.
Big security operations using trunked radio systems can use both NXDN Type-C and Gen2 trunking protocols. This makes the NX-3320E perfect for security teams of any size, from single sites to big multi-location operations.
The Kenwood NX-3220E / NX-3320E series combines versatility, toughness, and advanced features that security teams need. It works with existing systems right away and leaves room to grow later.
Kenwood NX-3200E / NX-3300E
The Kenwood NX-3200E / NX-3300E series packs multi-protocol capability into a compact, rugged design. These radios make ideal choices for security teams that need advanced communication solutions. The sophisticated devices support NXDN and DMR digital protocols while handling FM analogue operation, which gives security operations exceptional flexibility at any scale.
Kenwood NX-3200E / NX-3300E features for security use
The NX-3200E and NX-3300E radios stand out with their detailed security-focused features that improve team coordination and personal safety. These models support both NXDN and DMR digital protocols along with FM analogue operation. Security teams can make a gradual switch from older systems at their own pace. This versatility helps security operations that span multiple sites with different communication setups.
The built-in GPS receiver and antenna let control room staff track security personnel’s exact location in real-time. This feature improves operational safety by a lot, especially when teams work across large sites or remote areas.
The built-in motion sensor system comes with three safety monitoring features:
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- Man-down detection for emergency situations
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- Stationary detection for monitoring inactive guards
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- Motion detection for tracking movements
These smart sensors trigger emergency alerts automatically when they detect unusual movement patterns. This makes them vital for protecting lone workers in high-risk environments.
These radios really take care of communication security through software DES and AES encryption options for both NXDN Conventional/Trunking and DMR Conventional protocols. Your sensitive security communications stay private and safe from unauthorised access.
More security features include:
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- 7-colour bar light indicator that shows different call types, statuses, or contacts
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- Built-in Bluetooth for hands-free operation with compatible headsets
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- Active Noise Reduction using built-in DSP for clear audio in noisy places
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- Emergency call functionality for quick message delivery during critical situations
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- Status and text messaging capabilities for quiet information sharing
The user-friendly interface shows a 4-line display with 14 characters per line and a 5-line text message frame. Security personnel can quickly check important information without losing focus on their main duties.
Kenwood NX-3200E / NX-3300E battery life
Battery performance matters a lot in security operations. The NX-3200E/3300E series offers several battery options to match different operational needs. The standard KNB-55L (1,480 mAh) battery runs for about 8.0 hours in FDMA mode and 9.5 hours in TDMA mode. This setup works well for standard security shifts without mid-shift charging.
Security teams working longer hours can pick the KNB-57L (2,000 mAh) battery. It runs much longer – about 11.0 hours in FDMA mode and 13.5 hours in TDMA mode. Your team stays connected through the longest shifts with this extended capacity.
The KNB-56N (1,400 mAh) battery gives you about 8.0 hours in FDMA mode and 9.0 hours in TDMA mode. These battery choices let security operations balance weight against run time needs.
All battery life estimates use a standard duty cycle of 5-5-90 (5% transmit, 5% receive, 90% standby). This matches real security usage patterns since most security work involves monitoring with occasional radio use.
Kenwood NX-3200E / NX-3300E durability and range
These radios can handle tough security environments. They meet MIL-STD-810 C/D/E/F/G military standards, making them really tough against shock, vibration, extreme temperatures, and pressure changes.
The environmental protection ratings are impressive:
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- IP54 guards against limited dust and water splashes
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- IP55 protects from dust and water jets
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- IP67 keeps out all dust and handles temporary water dunking
Your radio keeps working in challenging outdoor conditions or facilities with water hazards. Security operations continue whatever the weather throws at you.
The radios work from -30°C to +60°C. You get reliable performance in any climate, from winter patrols to summer crowd control. The NX-3200E stays compact at 56.0 x 119.6 x 36.4 mm with the standard KNB-55L battery and weighs just 315g. The UHF model (NX-3300E) keeps these same dimensions while working on the 400-520 MHz frequency range. Security guards can carry these lightweight radios all shift without getting tired.
Kenwood NX-3200E / NX-3300E licensing and compliance
The NX-3200E works in the 136-174 MHz VHF range, while the NX-3300E covers the 400-520 MHz UHF band. These frequencies work great for security teams covering big areas like campuses, shopping centres, or industrial sites.
You get 512 channels hosted across 128 zones. This gives plenty of room for complex security operations with multiple teams. An optional upgrade pushes this to 1,000 channels for the most complex security setups.
Both radios support digital channel spacing of 12.5 kHz (wide) and 6.25 kHz (narrow). In analogue mode, they work with 25 kHz, 20 kHz, and 12.5 kHz spacing. This means they play nice with both old and new, more efficient networks.
The NX-3200E/3300E handles several digital protocols:
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- NXDN Conventional and Type-C & Gen2 Trunking
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- DMR Tier II, DMR Auto Slot Select & Site Roaming
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- DMR Tier III Trunking (needs optional KWD-3302TR licence)
Unlike basic licence-free radios on shared frequencies, these professional radios need proper Ofcom licensing in the UK. While this means some extra paperwork, you get dedicated frequencies that keep your security communications private.
The Kenwood NX-3200E/3300E series ended up being an excellent choice for security teams that need advanced features, flexible protocols, and tough durability in a compact package.
Kenwood NX-1000 Range
The Kenwood NX-1000 Range redefines entry-level two-way radios for security applications. It combines affordable pricing with professional features that exceed expectations. Security teams will find this versatile series an economic yet powerful communication solution that delivers all essential functions.
Kenwood NX-1000 Range features for security use
The NX-1000 Range stands out by offering security-focused features you usually find only in higher-tier models. These radios become especially valuable when you have multi-protocol flexibility. They support FM Analogue, DMR, or NXDN digital protocols with automatic Digital/Analogue mixed-mode operation. Security teams can keep communicating with existing analogue radios as they move to digital technology.
The built-in 15-bit scrambler gives you essential encryption for voice and data transmissions. You can upgrade security to 40-bit ARC4 encryption with an optional licence. This keeps sensitive information safe from unauthorised access.
Surveillance Mode is a great way to get maximum discretion in high-security settings. This mode mutes all alert tones and turns off display backlight and LED illumination. Your team can operate covertly in sensitive situations. The Lock-down Alert Function lets security teams set up a pre-programmed channel for emergencies. This works great in schools, arenas and stadiums.
Key security features include:
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- GPS capability through external speaker-microphone for portable units
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- Over-the-Air Alias shows transmitting radios’ ID names
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- Battery level checks through audible tones and LED flashing
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- Noise Suppression technology philtres ambient noise for clearer voice transmission
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- Remote Radio Stun/Kill feature deactivates lost or stolen radios
These features boost team coordination, especially in tough environments where clear communication matters most.
Kenwood NX-1000 Range battery life
Battery performance is vital for security operations. The NX-1000 Range delivers impressive results. NX-P1200AVK/NX-P1300AUK models with 2,000 mAh Li-Ion batteries run for 11.5/12.5 hours. NX-P1202AVK/NX-P1302AUK variants last even longer at 15/16.5 hours.
The standard 2,000 mAh battery takes only 3 hours to fully charge. Your security team’s radios can get back to work quickly after charging.
These units weigh just 9.88 oz with the battery but pack plenty of power. Battery ratings reflect typical security usage: 5% transmit, 5% receive, and 90% standby. This matches real-world patterns where monitoring dominates with occasional transmission.
Kenwood NX-1000 Range durability and range
The NX-1000 Range can handle tough security environments. These radios meet the U.S. Department of Defence’s MIL-STD-810 C/D/E/F/G standards. They resist shock, vibration, temperature extremes, and atmospheric pressure changes.
The radios’ environmental protection includes:
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- IP54 rating against limited dust and water splashes
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- IP55 rating against dust and water jets
Military-grade durability makes the NX-1000 Range perfect for security work in challenging conditions. Your team can use them in rainy outdoor patrols or dusty industrial settings.
Digital capability substantially improves reception in fringe areas. NXDN and DMR digital protocols deliver crystal-clear audio in one-to-one communication. They offer better range and battery life than analogue operation. Teams can switch between analogue and digital modes to get the best performance for their location.
Kenwood NX-1000 Range licencing and compliance
Your security operations will need an FCC licence to use these radios. Kenwood dealers can help with the licensing process.
The radios work with 12.5 kHz and 6.25 kHz channel bandwidths in digital mode. They support both 25 kHz and narrow 12.5 kHz channel spacing in analogue mode. This means they work with existing systems while offering digital technology’s benefits.
Multi-protocol capability gives security teams big advantages. NXDN digital protocol supports both 12.5 kHz and 6.25 kHz bandwidths using FDMA technology. This provides excellent coverage and spectrum efficiency. DMR doubles capacity by offering two talk paths within a 12.5 kHz bandwidth. You get twice the capacity from a single licence or repeater.
The NX-1000 Range works perfectly for security companies moving from analogue to digital. Automatic analogue/digital mixed mode operation lets teams keep using existing equipment while upgrading to digital technology. Your communication stays uninterrupted throughout the transition.
Kenwood NX-1000 Analogue
The Kenwood NX-1000 Analogue radio gives security teams a budget-friendly communication option. This radio works reliably without complex digital systems that many teams just need. Security operations will find this model perfect to start with its simple operation and key security features.
Kenwood NX-1000 Analogue features for security use
The NX-1000 Analogue helps teams work better together while keeping everyone safe. The radio has a 16-code voice inversion scrambler that works in analogue mode to keep communications private. Security guards can share sensitive information safely without worrying about others listening in.
The Lone Worker feature keeps solo security personnel safe by checking on them regularly. The team gets an alert if a guard doesn’t respond within their scheduled check-in time.
The radio also has:
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- Radio Stun/Kill feature to disable lost or stolen radios
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- Noise Suppression technology that cuts background noise for clearer voice calls
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- Lock-down Alert Function for emergencies in schools, arenas and stadiums
Kenwood NX-1000 Analogue battery life
Security operations depend on reliable power. The NX-1000 Analogue’s Li-ion battery lasts up to 12 hours on a single charge. Guards can work their entire shift without stopping to recharge.
Kenwood NX-1000 Analogue durability and range
The NX-1000 Analogue meets the U.S. Department of Defence’s MIL-STD-810 C/D/E/F/G standards. These radios pass 11 tough environmental tests, including resistance to ‘driven rain’.
The IP54/55 rating protects against dust and water. Security teams can use these radios in rain or dusty places without issues. The radio weighs just 9.9 oz with its battery, so guards can carry it comfortably during long shifts.
Kenwood NX-1000 Analogue licensing and compliance
The NX-1000 Analogue’s design looks to the future. The radio starts as an FM Analogue device but can upgrade to digital later. Security companies can switch to digital technology at their own pace without replacing all their radios at once.
The radio’s modular design lets security teams add features as they grow. With 4 watts of transmission power, these radios provide good coverage for most security needs.
Comparison Table
| Model | Protocol Support | Battery Life | Durability Rating | Key Security Features | Channel Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kenwood TK-3701D | PMR446 Analogue & DPMR446 Digital | 15-18 hours (KNB-45L) | IP55, MIL-STD 810 C/D/E/F/G | AES/DES encryption, Voice scrambler, VOX | 48 channels (32 digital, 16 analogue) |
| Kenwood NX-3220E/3320E | NXDN, DMR, FM Analogue | 8-25 hours (varies by battery) | IP54/55/67, MIL-STD-810 C/D/E/F/G | Built-in GPS, Motion sensor, DES/AES encryption | 260 channels (expandable to 1,000) |
| Kenwood NX-3200E/3300E | NXDN, DMR, FM Analogue | 8-13.5 hours (varies by battery) | IP54/55/67, MIL-STD-810 C/D/E/F/G | Built-in GPS, Motion sensor, DES/AES encryption | 512 channels (expandable to 1,000) |
| Kenwood NX-1000 Range | FM Analogue, DMR, NXDN | 11.5-16.5 hours | IP54/55, MIL-STD-810 C/D/E/F/G | 15-bit scrambler, Lock-down Alert, Remote Stun/Kill | Not mentioned |
| Kenwood NX-1000 Analogue | FM Analogue (Digital upgradeable) | 12 hours | IP54/55, MIL-STD-810 C/D/E/F/G | 16-code voice scrambler, Lone Worker, Radio Stun/Kill | Not mentioned |
