Bullet Proof Vests – A Vest Made of Bulletproof Kevlar
If you live in a high crime area or work at a job that puts you in harm's way, you may decide that you need a bullet proof vest for that extra measure of personal safety.
Find, Compare, and Buy a Bullet Proof Vest - Clothing Links
A bullet proof vest is the most common type of body armor in use today, and advancements in design, fabric and construction have resulted in a variety of styles to cover a variety of situations. Online retailers and government agencies can provide in-depth information about the classes of assault vests available, allowing you to make an appropriate choice.
Most states have specific eligibility requirements concerning civilian purchase of body armor. Before you spend time researching the vest that's right for you, contact your local police department to make sure you meet those requirements.
The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) tests and classifies personal body armor for law enforcement personnel. If you are a civilian interested in purchasing a bullet proof vest, make sure that the retailer or manufacturer you are dealing with supplies you with the applicable NIJ certification for the vest under consideration. You may also wish to contact the National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center (NLECTC) at 800-248-2742, and request a copy of its publication, Selection and Application Guide to Personal Body Armor.
1. How does a bulletproof vest work?
When a bullet hits a ballistic resistant vest, its fibers absorb and spread the energy of the impact across the vest.2. Are bulletproof vests also puncture/stab resistant?
The material that makes soft body armor ballistic ally resistant doesn't necessarily make it puncture or stab resistant (and vice versa). While their have been instances where bulletproof vests have provided some level of protection from attacks with sharp weapons, it shouldn't be assumed that it will provide that type of protection at all3. What types of materials are used to make bulletproof vests?
Vests can be made from a variety of woven or non-woven materials. One of the first fibers used in their construction was Kevlar®, manufactured by DuPont. Non-fabric (hard) armor plates are also manufactured from a variety of materials including metal and ceramics.4. Are men's and women's vests different?
The main difference between male/female styles of body armor is that for women's styles, most manufacturers will fabricate and stitch in bust cups. The NIJ testers make sure the seams, typically the weakest portion of the vest, still meet standards for ballistic protection. Some manufacturers mold the bust cups into the vest, eliminating the seams; others simply alter the outside panel dimensions (such as enlarging the arm holes) to accommodate different builds and body types - these are called "unisex" vests.5. What type and threat level of armor should I wear?
First determine the type of threat you face, and select a vest that is rated by the NIJ to best protect against it. Also consider the climate in which you'll be wearing the vest (in warmer temps, they can be uncomfortably hot to wear). Will you be wearing the vest under or over clothing? Select one that will fit your apparel needs. No vest can protect you if it's hanging up in your closet.
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