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If you're wondering whether you, as a civilian, can own and wear body armor, the short answer is yes—for the most part. Bulletproof vests aren’t just for cops and military personnel; civilians in high-risk professions or just safety-conscious individuals can absolutely invest in personal protection. But, as with anything, there are some exceptions.

In the United States, there are no states that completely ban civilians from owning body armor, but a few impose specific restrictions:

• Connecticut: Connecticut does not prohibit civilians from owning body armor, but all purchases must be made in person under state law (CGS § 53-341b). Online purchases are not allowed, making Connecticut the only state with this requirement.
• New York: In 2022, New York passed a law prohibiting the sale and possession of body armor to civilians, except for individuals in professions that require it, such as law enforcement and security personnel such as armored car guards and various non-law enforcement security officers. Civilians not in these exempted professions cannot legally own body armor. Selling body armor to unauthorized individuals is considered a Class A misdemeanor for the first offense and a felony for subsequent offenses.

Federal Restrictions on Body Armor Ownership

At the federal level, body armor is legal for most civilians. The main restriction comes under 18 U.S.C. § 931, which prohibits individuals convicted of violent felonies from owning or possessing body armor. This law aims to prevent high-risk individuals from using body armor to evade law enforcement during criminal activity.

While this federal restriction is specific to convicted felons, many states mirror these laws, adding parole or probation restrictions for individuals with violent criminal histories. If you have a clean record, you’re free to buy body armor without any issues under federal law.

International Restrictions on Body Armor Ownership

Outside the United States, the rules governing body armor ownership can be much stricter. For instance:

Australia

In Australia, body armor is classified as a controlled weapon, and regulations differ across states and territories:

• Victoria: Under the Control of Weapons Act 1990, body armor is categorized as a prohibited weapon. Individuals must obtain an exemption or a Chief Commissioner's Approval to possess body armor legally. Security professionals, such as security guards and bodyguards, may use body armor if they hold the appropriate licenses and are covered under a Governor in Council Exemption.
• New South Wales (NSW): The Weapons Prohibition Act 1998 classifies body armor vests as prohibited weapons. Security firms and media organizations can apply for a permit to possess body armor for their employees. Applications are submitted to the NSW Firearms Registry, and applicants must demonstrate a genuine need, such as protection due to civil unrest or warfare.
• South Australia: The Summary Offences Act 1953 prohibits the manufacture, supply, possession, and use of body armor without an exemption from the Commissioner of Police. Individuals or businesses must complete an application form (RF1662) and provide the required information to obtain the exemption.
• Tasmania: According to the Police Offences Act 1935, possessing body armor without a permit is an offense. Permits are issued based on the applicant's need and background, and must be produced upon request by law enforcement.

Canada

Canadian regulations on body armor are primarily provincial:

• Alberta: The Body Armour Control Act requires individuals to hold a permit to possess body armor. Applicants must be over 18 and not have a criminal record.
• British Columbia: Similar to Alberta, individuals must obtain a permit under the Body Armour Control Act. Security professionals are typically eligible, while others must demonstrate a legitimate need.

United Kingdom

In the UK, while there are no specific laws prohibiting civilian ownership of body armor, certain types are regulated:

• Military-Grade Body Armor: The UK restricts items designed for military use. The Export Control Order 2008 controls the export of military goods, including certain body armor. While this primarily affects export, it reflects the UK's stance on military-grade equipment.

The UK Home Office has established standards for body armor used by law enforcement, detailed in the Home Office Body Armour Standard 2017. This document outlines performance requirements and testing methods for ballistic, knife, and spike protection.

Civilians can purchase body armor from licensed retailers without a permit. However, it's advisable to ensure the body armor meets relevant safety standards and is appropriate for the intended use.

Obtaining Permits

For regions requiring permits, the process generally involves:

1. Application Submission: Complete the required forms, available from local law enforcement agencies or government websites.
2. Background Check: Undergo a criminal record check to ensure eligibility.
3. Demonstrating Need: Provide a valid reason for needing body armor, such as employment in a high-risk profession.
4. Approval: Await approval from the relevant authority, which may include interviews or additional documentation.

If you’re planning to travel or relocate internationally with body armor, it’s important to research the specific laws in your destination country to avoid unintentional violations.

Who Can Own Body Armor in the U.S.?

For most law-abiding civilians in the United States, owning body armor is perfectly legal. Unless you’re in a state with restrictions like New York or Connecticut, or you’re a convicted violent felon, there’s nothing stopping you from purchasing a bulletproof vest. Even online purchases are allowed in 49 states.

It’s worth noting that while owning body armor is legal, some states impose enhanced penalties for crimes committed while wearing it. For example, if someone commits a robbery or assault while wearing a bulletproof vest, they may face additional charges or longer sentences.

Why You Should Invest in Body Armor

Body armor isn’t just for law enforcement or military personnel. Civilians in high-risk professions—such as security guards, private investigators, journalists working in conflict zones, or even retail workers in dangerous areas—can all benefit from the added safety and peace of mind that comes with wearing a quality bulletproof vest.

At BulletSafe, we believe personal protection should be affordable and accessible. Our bulletproof vests are designed to meet rigorous safety standards while staying within reach of everyday civilians. Whether you’re looking for a concealable vest or a higher level of protection, we’ve got you covered.

In a world where personal safety is becoming increasingly important, understanding the laws around body armor ownership is just as vital as choosing the right vest. With BulletSafe, you can stay protected without breaking the law—or the bank.

To shop BulletSafe bulletproof vests, click here.

Imagine this: You’re navigating an urban combat zone. The thundering of distant rifle fire echoes through the streets, and you’re out on patrol, feeling confident that you’ll make it back to your cot that night relatively unscathed. You’re sporting reliable pair of Level III plates in your carrier, and you assume that nothing the enemy has is powerful enough to shoot through you.

Then, the loud crack of a sniper’s shot rings out.

The round that hits you isn’t the usual 5.56 NATO or the infamous AK’s 7.62x39mm. It’s a .30-06 armor-piercing (AP) round. As your legs give way beneath you and you find yourself staring at the sky, your last nagging thought is that you should have gotten better plates.

Scenarios like this aren’t just hypothetical for those in high-risk roles. Law enforcement, military personnel, and even civilians in volatile areas could face threats that exceed the capabilities of Level III armor. While Level III plates are excellent for most common rounds, they weren’t designed to stop the .30-06 AP round, but Level IV plates are.

Level IV body armor is the highest rating under the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) standards, capable of stopping a single hit from a .30-06 AP round traveling at approximately 2,880 feet per second. The .30-06 is by no means a rare cartridge. It’s a popular deer rifle round, and in a SHTF scenario, it’s not unreasonable to imagine bad actors carrying a hunting rifle chambered in this big game cartridge or similar large calibers which could easily endanger anyone relying on insufficient protection.

The Science Behind Level IV Plates

The strength difference between Level III and Level IV plates lies in the design specifications and material performance tailored to their respective threats.

Level III plates, while made of ceramic and UHMWPE, are designed to stop rounds up to 7.62x51mm NATO. These plates focus on dissipating the kinetic energy of standard military rounds and preventing penetration through a combination of hardness (ceramic) and energy absorption (UHMWPE). However, they are not built to counter the concentrated force and penetrative capabilities of armor-piercing (AP) rounds.

Level IV plates are specifically engineered to defeat AP threats like the .30-06 AP round. Here's how they achieve superior performance:

1. Stronger Ceramic Composition: The ceramic used in Level IV plates is denser and harder than that in Level III plates. It is formulated to withstand and shatter the hardened steel or tungsten cores found in AP rounds, dissipating their immense energy more effectively.
2. Enhanced Backing Layers: The UHMWPE or composite material backing in Level IV plates is designed to handle the additional force transmitted after the ceramic strike face absorbs and breaks the projectile. This ensures that even the residual energy from an AP round is effectively dispersed.
3. NIJ Standards for AP Threats: Level IV plates must meet more stringent NIJ standards, requiring them to stop a .30-06 AP round at a specific velocity. Level III plates are not tested or rated for these types of rounds, as their primary purpose is to stop non-AP rounds.

The difference comes down to purpose: Level III plates are optimized for widespread, non-AP threats, while Level IV plates are built to handle the extreme forces of armor-piercing rounds, offering the highest level of protection available.

While it’s true that not every situation calls for Level IV armor, its importance becomes undeniable when you consider the unpredictability of modern threats. Level IV plates offer a layer of protection that no other armor type can match. For professionals in high-risk scenarios or civilians preparing for worst-case situations, Level IV isn’t just a precaution, it’s peace of mind.

At BulletSafe, we understand the critical need for reliable, high-performance body armor. That’s why our Level IV plates are built to NIJ standards, ensuring they provide the protection you need when it matters most. Lightweight, durable, and rigorously tested, these plates are the pinnacle of modern armor technology. When the stakes are life and death, don’t settle for anything less than the best. Choose Level IV. Choose BulletSafe.

To shop BulletSafe plates, click here.

Working as an armored car driver isn’t like an average 9-to-5. It’s a high-risk profession that demands constant vigilance and preparation. If you’re new to the job, you’ve probably already heard plenty about protocols and safety, but sometimes it’s good to think about the worst case scenarios just so you can be mentally prepared.

1. Never Stop for People You Don’t Trust

One of the oldest tricks in the book is criminals impersonating authority figures. In 1962, during an event known as the Great Plymouth Mail Truck Robbery, two men dressed as police officers waved down an armored mail truck. The drivers, thinking it was a routine traffic stop, stopped and ended up being led into a dead-end where they lost $1.5 million. Not everyone who looks official is there to help you.

Today, some companies have protocols in place for what to do when stopped by police. They usually involve communication between the police department in question and the armored car company’s dispatch to see whether the traffic stop is legitimate. This may involve taking the officer’s credentials and sending them to dispatch for verification.

If the cops flag you down, don’t assume the worst—but don’t open up just because they’re flashing a badge either. Check with dispatch. It might feel awkward, but it's better than ending up in a dangerous situation. If you ever feel uneasy, stay inside the vehicle with the doors locked and the engine running. Remember, you’re not obligated to hop out unless you’re 100% sure it’s legit.

2. Don’t Stick to a Routine

Robbers love predictability. If you’re taking the same route every day, at the same time, stopping at the same gas station, you’ve become a sitting duck. During an armored car robbery in Arizona in 1997, the perpetrators had studied their intended victims’ route for almost a year and knew the drivers’ routine, including the best spot where they could pull them over, force them to open the truck, and escape with $228,000. As for the drivers, they got stuffed into bags and dumped into a lake.

Mix it up. Plan different routes and keep alternate plans in your back pocket. The fewer patterns you fall into, the harder you are to target.

3. Pay Attention During Stops

Delivery and pickup spots are where things can go south fast. This is where attackers are most likely to strike because they know you’re distracted, focused on hauling heavy bags of cash into the truck as quickly as possible. The 1981 Brink’s robbery is a gut-wrenching example. During what seemed like a routine delivery stop, robbers ambushed the crew, killing two policemen and a Brink’s driver. It’s a brutal reminder that even “normal” stops can turn deadly.

Here’s the deal: when you’re at a stop, don’t zone out. One team member should always be scanning the area while others handle the delivery. Drivers? Keep that engine running and stay ready to hit the gas. Even if the area looks calm, don’t let your guard down.

4. Keep Your Head on a Swivel

If you want to be truly alert and “switched on,” you’ll want to notice the little things. Is someone hanging out near your route a little too long? Did a car make the same turns as you for the last mile? Trust your gut. The 1997 Dunbar Armored robbery happened because the criminals planned every detail and took advantage of gaps in the crew’s awareness such as blind spots in Dunbar’s security camera placement and the predictability of the guards’ routine. They walked away with $18.9 million. Don’t make it that easy for anyone.

Distractions are your worst enemy here. This isn’t the time to scroll through your phone or zone out on the radio. Use mirrors, reflective windows, or even casual glances to keep tabs on what’s happening around you. If something feels off, don’t ignore it.

5. Always Wear Your Protective Gear

Here’s the truth: no amount of preparation can make you invincible. There are risks in this line of work, and you owe it to yourself to be as protected as possible. That’s why wearing a reliable bulletproof vest is essential. It doesn’t matter if it’s your first day or your hundredth; being caught unprotected could cost you everything.

The BulletSafe VP4 Advanced Vest is a solid choice for anyone in the armored car business. It’s easy to wear over your clothes, doesn’t weigh you down, and offers NIJ Level IIIA protection against most handgun threats. The best part? It’s designed to be comfortable even during those long, grueling shifts. Think of it as your last line of defense when everything else goes sideways.

Driving an armored car requires you not only to protect valuable cargo but also your life and the lives of your teammates. Learn from history, stay sharp, and don’t be complacent. The more prepared you are, the less likely you are to end up in a dangerous situation. And when it comes to protection, don’t settle for less. The BulletSafe VP4 Vest is here to have your back—literally. Stay safe out there.

To buy the BulletSafe VP4 vest, click here.

Whether you’re building a plate carrier for professional use, home defense, or just want to look prepared for a tactical photo op (we won’t judge), you’ve come to the right place. It might be tempting to get all the MOLLE equipment you can find on Amazon and strap it to your rig, but in the real world, pounds = pain, and there is such a thing as too much gear. Setting up your plate carrier is equal parts functionality, comfort, and mobility, ensuring you can utilize your gear and run in it when the moment calls for it.

Your magazines are the backbone of your plate carrier’s functionality, and the easier they are to access, the faster you will reload, leaving you less time to be vulnerable to enemy fire. Assuming you're using AR magazines with curves and not straight stick mags for a PCC, position them upside-down for faster retrieval, but the direction they face depends on how you draw them. Generally speaking, the way they face depends on your “handedness.” If you’re right-handed, they should generally face right. However, try to find the best way that works for you through constant practice. Run dry reload drills to test your setup and let muscle memory guide your configuration.

This left-handed shooter has his magazines facing left, according to his draw style. (Photo credit: Paul Sneck)

The placement of your Individual First Aid Kit (IFAK) depends on your role. If you’re following military standards, the kit is typically placed behind you, out of the way, so teammates can access it to patch you up. However, for law enforcement or civilians who might need to provide aid to others – or even to themselves – the IFAK should be placed by the hip where it’s easier to grab. In both cases, always ensure that your tourniquet is within arm’s reach, accessible by either hand, because seconds can make all the difference in an emergency.

Be cautious about overloading your stomach area with gear. If you’re ever required to lie prone, excess gear on your belly will not only make it uncomfortable but will also elevate your profile, increasing your chances of being hit. Keeping this area streamlined ensures better comfort and functionality, which will be critical if you ever find yourself in a situation where bullets start flying.

Once you’ve got the essentials down, consider adding a few extras to enhance your setup. A reliable flashlight is invaluable for low-light situations, while medical shears can complement your IFAK, helping you cut through bandages or clothing during emergencies. A durable notebook, such as a Rite-in-the-Rain all-weather notepad, paired with a dependable pen, is perfect for jotting down critical notes or instructions. A sturdy knife is another versatile tool that often proves to be indispensable, so it should be readily accessible with either hand, but should also not be sitting in a spot where it makes turning, standing, sitting, or going prone uncomfortable. If you’re operating with a team, a walkie-talkie or similar communication device should also be included to keep you connected.

When setting up your plate carrier, it’s important to tailor it to your specific needs and priorities. While having the right gear is critical, overloading your rig with unnecessary items can weigh you down and reduce your effectiveness.

Unless you’re in law enforcement, you likely don’t need to carry bulky non-lethal equipment like a baton. These tools are better suited for specific operational scenarios where your objective is to arrest a perpetrator, not survive a high stakes firefight. Thus, large non-lethal implements like these can hinder your ability to move swiftly. Remember, your rifle is far more versatile and effective, capable of delivering blunt force if necessary while being much more intimidating due to its "primary attack mode."

If you find you have extra room on your rig, consider adding small, practical tools like utility knives. These tools are endlessly helpful for cutting or prying, or even conducting minor repairs in the field.

Lastly, if you don’t expect to face heavy fighting and want to minimize your loadout, consider running a lighter kit. A Tactical Level IIIA vest with a MOLLE front carrier is a solid option for mobility while still offering protection. Alternatively, you could use a slick vest (with no accessories) paired with a chest rig or battle belt to carry your gear. This setup lets you remain agile while keeping essential gear within easy reach.

At the heart of your plate carrier setup is, of course, the plates themselves. Without proper plates, your carrier is just a heavy vest. To ensure maximum protection, opt for Level III or IV plates. Level IV plates are especially crucial as they can stop rifle rounds that soft armor (like Level IIIA) cannot. BulletSafe’s Level IV plates, made from ceramic materials and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, are lightweight yet capable of stopping high-caliber threats like .30-06 armor-piercing rounds. The tensile strength of polyethylene, stronger than steel, provides exceptional protection without weighing you down, making these plates an outstanding choice for serious users.

Your plate carrier should feel like an extension of yourself – functional, comfortable, and efficient. Regularly test and refine your setup through training and drills to ensure it performs when you need it most. And when it’s time to upgrade your armor or invest in new plates, BulletSafe’s Level IV plates offer top-tier protection you can trust. Because when every detail matters, it’s better to be prepared.

To shop BulletSafe soft armor, click here.

To shop BulletSafe Level IV plates, click here.

When it comes to buying a bulletproof vest, it's easy to get lost in the numbers, acronyms, and technical jargon. Should you go with Level IIIA, III, or IV? What’s the difference between soft armor and hard plates? And most importantly—how do you avoid ending up with something too bulky to wear or, worse, not protective enough when it matters most?

We get it. Choosing a vest can feel like walking a tightrope between "too much" and "not enough." You never know what threat you're going to face and you don't want to make the mistake of buying a big bulky vest that'll only cause you discomfort while you're out on long hours on patrol.

Overkill

If you’re not storming enemy lines or participating in a SWAT raid, you don’t need to wear a vest designed for that. While Level IV hard plates can stop armor-piercing rifle rounds, they also:

• Add weight: They’re heavy. We’re talking multiple pounds per plate.
• Restrict movement: Imagine running or bending over with a couple of dinner plates strapped to your chest.
• Conspicuousness: If you’re a security guard, the goal is to blend in, not look like you're guarding a checkpoint in Kandahar.

For everyday civilian use, such as personal protection or security work, that’s overkill. You may end up leaving it in the closet instead of wearing it because it’s too much hassle.

When selecting a bulletproof vest, it's crucial to understand the types of firearms most commonly used in violent crimes. Handguns, particularly 9mm models, are the predominant weapons in such incidents. In 2023, handguns were involved in 7,159 homicides in the United States, making them the most frequently used murder weapon. In contrast, rifles, which Level III and IV vests are made for, accounted for only 455 homicides in 2020.

Under-Protection

On the flip side, you don’t want to cut corners on safety. An old IIA vest that only stops knives or small caliber rounds might leave you exposed to more common threats like 9mm or .44 Magnum rounds. If the vest isn’t certified to handle the threats you might face, what’s the point of wearing it?

NIJ Level IIIA vests are the gold standard for stopping handgun rounds like 9mm, which are statistically the most likely threat in most scenarios.

The VP4 IIIA Concealable Vest

The BulletSafe VP4 Concealable Vest is built to NIJ Level IIIA standards, meaning it stops nearly all handgun rounds, including powerful calibers like .357 and .44 Magnum. For most people—civilians, security professionals, or law enforcement in low-risk roles—that’s all the protection you’ll ever need.

But we didn’t stop at safety. We know you’re not just looking for protection; you want something you can actually wear comfortably.

Here’s why the VP4 stands out:

1. Lightweight and Flexible: Made with a blend of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene and aramid fibers, this vest is light and moves with you.
2. Concealable Design: Its low-profile cut lets you wear it under regular clothing and reduces printing.
3. Affordable: High protection doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. At $499.99, the VP4 is competitively priced without sacrificing quality.

Who Should Wear the VP4?

This vest is ideal for:

• Security professionals: Perfect for bodyguards or private security who need reliable protection without attracting attention.
• Civilians: Whether you’re protecting yourself during high-risk activities or just want peace of mind, the VP4 is discreet and effective.
• Off-duty officers: A concealable option that still meets professional standards.

At BulletSafe, we believe your vest should protect you without slowing you down or making you uncomfortable. The VP4 IIIA Concealable Vest strikes the perfect balance—it’s not overkill, but it’s far from underwhelming.

To buy the BulletSafe VP4 Concealable Level IIIA Bulletproof Vest, click here.