Bulletproof vest, also known as ballistic vest, is one of the main elements of combat equipment. By absorbing the impact of bullets or projectiles, it offers optimal ballistic protection to protect the upper body.
While other equipment helps protect other areas, body armor typically only covers the torso. It is specifically designed to distribute the energy of the bullet and to reduce the risk of blunt trauma through its deformation.
The most common type of body armor includes the use of soft ballistic panels on the front and back, with NIJ Level II, IIA, or IIIA protection, and is primarily used by military forces. order, security officers or enthusiasts.
People frequently exposed to threats from rifle bullets or armor-piercing bullets, such as special mission units or active shooter rescue teams, use body armor or plate carriers in conjunction with body armor plates. hard bullets with NIJ protection level III (level 3) to IV (level 4).
Why are bulletproof vests effective?
Although ballistic vests provide substantial protection against projectiles, they are best thought of as bullet-resistant in the broad sense of the term, rather than bulletproof. Bulletproof vests are available in different protection levels and qualities to meet all needs at different price ranges.
Their level of protection also depends on the material of the ballistic panels and the type of combat for which they are designed. If the most popular type is the Kevlar vest, which generally offers protection against level IIA to IIIA threats, you will be able to find other types of vests with additional pockets in which you can insert hard armor , composed of ceramic or steel ballistic panels, in order to obtain protection similar to that of a plate carrier.
Before purchasing your body armor, like any other combat equipment, you need to consider who will be using it and in what situations.
Who uses bulletproof vests?
Body armor is the centerpiece of tactical equipment, and it is used by various professionals, such as
Active military personnel
Law enforcement officers/police officers
Security guards
Private security
VIPs
Is it legal to own a bulletproof vest?
In France as in the United States, it is completely legal for civilians to own and wear bulletproof vests and body armor.
Body armor today is extremely popular among combat gear enthusiasts, survivalists, and even ordinary people who are concerned about active shooter situations, as this equipment can provide the most basic ballistic protection , not only in life-threatening situations, but also for everyday use.
What can bulletproof vests protect me from?
Protection levels of body armor are rated by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ). Level III (3) and IIIA (3A) ballistic vest panels, most often soft vests, are among the most popular, for their versatility and level of protection.
Note that the higher the protection level, the heavier the armor plate will be to carry. Some people may also opt for protection as low as NIJ Level II (2) if they only expect to be exposed to handgun bullets and knives.
However, keep in mind the type of caliber of weapon you may be facing. If NIJ level II (2) protection can be effective against a 9mm handgun, it will be much less effective against weapons of higher caliber, such as a 44 magnum (which level IIIA soft armor can to counter). Remember that not all body armor or Kevlar vests are stab proof or certain types of spikes.
Most body armor manufacturers include additional armor plate pockets, so the wearer can add hard armor plates, up to level IV, to their body armor to increase the level of protection ballistics, as well as stab resistance capabilities, similar to how plate carriers work.
Kevlar body armor is one of the most popular pieces of combat gear you can find. These days, it's pretty easy to find body armor made from a variety of materials. From Kevlar vest to ceramic vest to hard steel vest, you will be spoiled for choice to meet the requirements of your threat level.
Choosing the Best Bulletproof Vest for Your Needs
At Delta Tactics , we want to ensure that every purchase you make on our store is a wise investment in your safety and that of your loved ones. Therefore, we have put together a comprehensive guide on how to find the best body armor that will undoubtedly come in handy, especially in a life and death situation.
