2026-08-25

From the Field, to the Workbench, to Sandberg Valley

After more than two decades with the Swedish Police, Henrik Ståhl made the decision to leave a secure career in public service to pursue a long-held dream. Today, he develops products that make the job safer for his former colleagues through his own newly established company.

Raised in Småland, Henrik moved to Skåne in 2006 to begin his career as a police officer, with the goal of joining the National Task Force. He achieved that goal within just a few years and served in the unit until 2025. During those years, he gained extensive experience from the realities of police work, while also developing a strong commitment to improving working conditions for his colleagues. 

“I quickly saw a need for better, more efficient, and smarter equipment that could reduce the risk of violence and physical injury, both for responding officers and for the individuals being taken into custody. I started experimenting with solutions on a small scale in my own workshop at home.” 

Using CAD software, 3D printer, and a great deal of trial and error, Henrik developed prototypes based on needs he had identified in the field. One tool, designed to help officers manage knife-wielding individuals at a distance, was used in a real-life incident in 2016 and helped save the life of a responding police officer. 

The Right Conditions at Sandberg Development

The idea of starting his own company had been on Henrik’s mind for a long time, and several of his prototypes and products were already being manufactured under license by other companies. However, it was only after a series of meetings with Sandberg Development CEO Stefan Persson and Igor Miskovic, Head of the Incubator, that he decided to take the leap. 

“Leaving a government agency after 20 years is not a decision you make lightly. It takes the right conditions and someone who truly believes in your idea. Together with Sandberg Development, I felt confident enough to take that step.”

Today, Henrik is the founder and CEO of Staahl Dynamics, a technology company developing innovative tactical equipment for police forces and other professional users. Operating at the intersection of real-world operational experience and technological innovation, the company’s goal is to create relevant products that make a meaningful difference in users’ day-to-day work. At Sandberg Development, Henrik believes his company has a real opportunity to develop and grow.

“In practice, I’m running a start-up, but with the security of being part of something larger. I have access to a tremendous amount of expertise and great colleagues, while still building something of my own.”

Strong Demand and a Team Doubled in Size

The company is currently in an intensive growth phase, with several projects underway and a new product approaching launch. Interest from the market is strong, including internationally.

“Demand for this type of tactical equipment is significant, and at the moment I can’t keep up with all the inquiries on my own. That’s why I’m especially excited to hire my first colleague and go from being on my own to being a team of two!”

When he is not working, Henrik enjoys spending time with his family, including his wife and two teenage children. Exercise has always been a natural part of his life, particularly due to his background in football. Today, however, his free time is less about performance and more about recovery. In recent years, oil painting has also become a favorite hobby. The family also enjoys traveling together, both for sunny getaways and skiing trips.

That said, work is never far from his mind.

“When my work involves a lot of analytical and technical thinking, it becomes especially important to switch off with something analog. That’s also what I love about my job. I get to spend time developing solutions, and then actually build them. That’s why you’ll often find me in the workshop even on a day off. That’s where ideas take shape.”

Five quick facts about Henrik Ståhl

Currently reading? Books on leadership, technology, and entrepreneurship

Currently watching? The Agency

Favorite meal? Fried pork with onion sauce

Currently listening to? Classic rock

Next travel destination? The United States