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For those new to the world of bulletproof vests, it's easy to assume that all vests are created equal, but that couldn't be further from the truth. The rugged plate carriers sported by soldiers and tactical teams and the discreet, soft black vests favored by beat cops and undercover agents serve very different purposes. Soft armor and hard armor vests each have their own strengths and weaknesses, and they offer protection against different kinds of dangers.

Yet, beyond this fundamental difference, there are numerous other factors to consider when purchasing your first bulletproof vest. From sizing and fit to level of protection and comfort, navigating the world of personal protection gear can be daunting. That's why it's crucial to delve into the nuances and intricacies of vest selection and do your research before making a decision about what type of armor is best suited for your needs.

In this article, we’ll take a look at the five things everyone who wears a bulletproof vest should know.

Printing

In the context of bulletproof vests, "printing" refers to when the contours of your bulletproof vest become discernible through your clothing, potentially revealing to others that you're wearing body armor. It's the last thing you want when discretion is paramount—whether you're working undercover, operating in sensitive environments, or simply prefer to keep a low profile.

Hard armor vests, like plate carriers, aren't exactly subtle. Their rigid structure and angular plates make them difficult to conceal under clothing, unless you're opting for the baggiest of outfits, and even then, someone wearing a plate carrier as concealed armor would not be using the vest as intended. These vests are typically designed to be worn visibly, providing easy access to essentials like mag pouches for firearm reloads. Often seen as part of a uniform, plate carriers come equipped with Velcro straps for patches, aiding in identification.

On the flip side, soft armor offers more versatility. While some soft vests are designed for covert wear under clothing, their thinner profile means they may offer less protection compared to overt options worn over a uniform.

At BulletSafe, we understand the importance of staying under the radar while still being protected. Our Concealed Lightweight Stealth (CLS) armor vests are designed with sleek profiles and advanced flexible materials to reduce printing as much as possible. So you can feel confident knowing you're protected without drawing unwanted attention.

Fitment

Selecting the right bullet or stab proof vest has to do with fit and comfort as much as it has to do with protection.

A vest that doesn't fit properly won't just feel awkward; it'll compromise your safety. Optimal fitting vests should allow for unrestricted movement while providing the necessary protection. When trying on body armor, ensure you can move freely without any restrictions.

Choosing body armor is not like picking out clothes. While the size charts may look similar, it’s always best to measure yourself before you buy your vest. Those with long torsos or pot bellies may find that bulletproof vests do not cover their stomachs. This makes little difference, since a properly worn vest should sit just above the belly button and not extend lower than the navel, safeguarding your vital organs without hindering your mobility. Armor covering the entire torso would make it very difficult for the wearer to sit down, which is the same reason why on a suit of medieval plate armor, the cuirass (chest piece) and the faulds (flexible armored skirt) met at the knight’s belly button.

If you're unsure about your size, it's better to go larger. Body armor is highly adjustable thanks to Velcro straps, making it easier to achieve a snug fit with a larger vest. Trust us, it's far better to have a vest that's a bit too big than one that's too small. A vest that's too small won't provide adequate protection and can put you at risk.

Protection Rating

Not all armor is made to the same standards. The National Institute of Justice, or NIJ, established standard 0101.06 to evaluate ballistic protection. This is the gold standard when it comes to evaluating body armor and allows consumers to make informed decisions about the level of protection they need.

Here's a breakdown of the existing NIJ protection levels:

• Level IIA: Tested to stop 9mm and .40 S&W ammo.
• Level II: Offers protection against higher-velocity handgun rounds, including 9mm and .357 Magnum.
• Level IIIA: Guards against even more powerful handgun rounds, like .44 Magnum and .45 ACP, as well as some shotgun projectiles.
• Level III: Designed to stop rifle rounds, such as 7.62mm NATO and .223 Remington (5.56mm).
• Level IV: Offers the highest level of protection, capable of stopping armor-piercing rifle rounds like .30-06 M2 AP.

Note that Level IIA and Level II vests are slightly harder to find nowadays as they once were, since modern vests like the BulletSafe CLS provide Level IIIA protection while remaining as light and slim as its IIA counterparts.

Each level represents a higher degree of protection, allowing you to select the appropriate level based on your specific needs and potential threats. Likewise, the higher an armor’s protection rating is, the denser the materials are and the harder it becomes to conceal. Armor at Levels IIA and II is very thin and light material reserved for concealable vests, while Level IIIA is typical of soft armor vests worn over clothing. Levels III and IV represent hard plates, which are typically worn inside plate carriers. Whether you're a law enforcement officer facing potential threats from the undesirable elements of society or a civilian preparing for the unexpected, there's a NIJ-rated vest to suit your requirements.

NIJ Certified vs. NIJ Compliant

Let's clear up some confusion about NIJ compliance. While "NIJ Compliant" and "NIJ Certified" may sound interchangeable, they're actually quite different.

A vest labeled as "NIJ Compliant" doesn't necessarily have the stamp of approval from the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) itself. Instead, these products undergo testing by their manufacturers using methods that mimic NIJ standards. Think of it as a close approximation, but not the real deal.

On the other hand, "NIJ Certified" armor has been sent to the NIJ itself to be tested according to their standards. These vests have undergone rigorous ballistic and temperature tests to meet the same standards required for law enforcement and military use.

Now, not every bulletproof vest company goes the extra mile to get true NIJ certification. But here at BulletSafe, we're committed to delivering top-notch quality at affordable prices. That's why we ensure that our vests are sent to the NIJ for certification, so you can trust that you're getting the real deal without breaking the bank.

Therefore, there is no reason to settle for an "NIJ Compliant" vest at a higher price when you can get superior "NIJ Certified" protection with BulletSafe. We believe in giving our customers peace of mind, knowing they're getting the highest quality protection they deserve.

You May Still Get Hurt

It's crucial to understand that bulletproof vests aren't magical shields that make you invincible. Instead, they're designed to do one thing exceptionally well: prevent death. Here's how it works:

When a bullet strikes a vest, it absorbs the impact and spreads the force across a wider area, reducing the likelihood of penetration. But even if the bullet doesn't pierce the vest, it can still cause serious harm. When hit, a user is still very likely to suffer from broken ribs, bruising, and internal bleeding — all from the force of the impact alone.

These injuries are a result of what is known as backface deformation. This occurs when a bullet hits a vest, creating a dent or deformation on the opposite side. While this deformation might sound harmless, it can actually cause significant injury, especially if it occurs over vital organs like the heart or lungs.

So, let's be crystal clear: a bulletproof vest will save your life, but it won’t prevent hospitalization. Armor is designed to prevent death by reducing the likelihood of a bullet penetrating vital organs, but they can't guarantee protection against injury, especially from the force of impact.

At BulletSafe, we're committed to providing you with the highest level of protection possible. That's why our vests undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet or exceed industry standards. So, when you're suiting up with BulletSafe, rest assured that you're equipping yourself with the best defense against life-threatening situations.

From understanding the nuances of bulletproof vest selection to grasping the importance of NIJ certification, it's clear that informed decision-making is key. At BulletSafe, we want to empower you with the knowledge and tools to protect yourself and your loved ones. Whether it's navigating the complexities of different protection levels or recognizing the limitations of body armor, BulletSafe has your back. Our commitment to providing top-notch, affordable, NIJ Certified vests ensures that you can face whatever comes your way with confidence. Because at the end of the day, your safety is our priority.

An investment in BulletSafe is an investment in your life. We offer everything from soft IIIA vests for security use to Level IV plate carrier kits for hard-charging operators to use in dangerous locales. . So, whether you're navigating the challenges of law enforcement, security, or simply prioritizing your personal safety, trust in BulletSafe to provide you with the protection you need to face the unexpected with confidence.

Click here to browse BulletSafe’s selection of bulletproof vests

A few months ago, my cousin contacted me about wanting to buy a bulletproof vest for the first time. He wanted, in his own words, to be “armored like Batman” so he would be completely protected from gun and knife fire. In other words, he wanted to be covered in as much bulletproof material as humanly possible.

To save him from future embarrassment and buyer’s remorse, I told him in no uncertain terms that his idea was stupid. For someone armored head to toe like the Juggernaut, the simple act of walking from one room to another is a light cardio workout. Running will be slower, and changing positions from prone to kneeling to standing again would be another workout by itself.

This goes without mentioning the hassle of putting on such a cumbersome piece of equipment in the dead of the night while your adversaries are bearing down on you. In a worst-case scenario, you’d have to fight hand-to-hand with someone, and a bulky heavy vest works against you in such a scenario.

An approximation of my cousin's ideal home-defense loadout. There are more practical options.

In a practical situation, one would want the lightest, least obstructive armor one could get. The military knows this, and the Department of Defense has been trying to tackle the problem for decades. Since the military introduced true bulletproof armor after phasing out the light (but not bulletproof) PASGT armor system, designers and engineers have grappled with the challenge of striking the right balance between protection and mobility for American soldiers.

The Interceptor Body Armor (IBA), introduced in the early 2000s, was an initial attempt at providing comprehensive upper body protection to the individual infantryman. However, it quickly became apparent that the IBA was simply too heavy and limited a soldier’s movement too much to be as combat effective as the military wanted to be. In response to these issues, in 2008, the Improved Outer Tactical Vest (IOTV) was introduced as its successor.

An American officer wearing the IOTV.

The IOTV, while an improvement, still faced criticism for the same problems of being heavy and cumbersome. Special Operations units took a different route, completely abandoning the IOTV in favor of lighter plate carriers. Furthermore, deltoid and groin protectors were rarely used since they did relatively little to save a soldier from a direct hit. While they protected fairly well against shrapnel from explosives, these accessory panels do nothing against direct hits from enemy rifle fire. Most realized the extra padding was more hindrance than help. Recognizing the need for a more agile solution, the military is now phasing out the IOTV in favor of the Modular Scalable Vest (MSV). Weighing 25lbs fully loaded, this new armor system is 5lbs lighter than its predecessor, signaling a shift towards enhanced mobility for regular troops.

Beyond the military, civilians, including security personnel and citizens who regularly wear body armor, are also seeking lighter alternatives to traditional full armor kits. Anyone who walks around with armor all day wants the same two things: protection and mobility.

One armor kit that offers the best of both worlds is the Advanced Vest with Reinforced Lightweight Advanced (RLA) Armor from BulletSafe. Crafted with a focus on comfort and mobility, RLA armor is a lighter and more flexible alternative to its predecessors. Maintaining the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Certified IIIA protection, RLA armor is capable of defeating most pistol caliber threats, including formidable .44 magnum rounds.

Designed with the user in mind, this armor prioritizes comfort and flexibility without sacrificing protection. Its construction allows wearers to move freely, making it an ideal choice for individuals who need to be both protected and agile when they’re on the job.

The evolution of body armor reflects a fundamental shift in priorities from sheer protection to a balanced consideration of mobility and comfort. As military forces transition to lighter and more agile solutions like the MSV, civilians are also benefiting from innovations like BulletSafe’s RLA armor, which strikes a balance between protection and the freedom to move. As technology advances, the future of body armor looks promising, with continued emphasis on enhancing both safety and usability for users across various sectors.

To purchase the BulletSafe Advanced Vest with RLA Armor, click here

BulletSafe has revolutionized the world of body armor with the new VP4 vest with Reinforced Lightweight Advanced Armor (RLA). Engineered to meet the demanding needs of high-speed operators, this soft shell bulletproof vest redefines personal safety by combining enhanced protection with mobility and unparalleled comfort.

The VP4 Vest with Integrated RLA Armor combines the best of both worlds: the mobility and comfort of the VP4 Vest with the formidable defense of RLA Armor. It's a game-changer, providing a comprehensive solution that prioritizes both safety and agility.

Crafted for optimal freedom of movement, the VP4 Vest features a superior cut and low-profile Velcro fastening system. Made from high-performance materials, it's built to withstand active use and offers front and rear plate pocket access, compatible with both RLA Armor and BulletSafe Level IV plates.

NIJ Certified to withstand impacts from pistol calibers up to .44 Magnum, RLA Armor delivers reliable defense against a wide range of ballistic threats. Its waterproof soft shell keeps users dry and comfortable in any weather, while its lightweight construction ensures all-day wear without fatigue.

Proudly crafted in the United States, the VP4 reflects BulletSafe's unwavering commitment to quality. With strategically angled and placed cuts around the shoulders, this armor enhances movement and provides operators with unmatched mobility during various activities, from driving to combat.

The VP4 is tailor-made for the tactical needs of armed professionals and individuals prioritizing personal safety. Its discreet yet effective protection makes it a versatile choice for those who demand mobility without compromising on ballistic defense.

At BulletSafe, we're dedicated to leading the industry with innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of high-speed operators. With the VP4, users can experience the perfect fusion of protection and mobility, setting a new standard in personal safety. Trust BulletSafe to keep you safe, wherever your mission takes you.

Click here to buy the VP4

Here at BulletSafe, we pride ourselves in being “NIJ certified,” and understanding what "NIJ certified" means is crucial for discerning consumers when they’re buying a piece of gear that could mean the difference between life and death. In essence, the term indicates a stamp of approval from the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), showing that the vests have been thoroughly tested and met certain standards. While many brands claim to meet these standards, not all have gone through the rigorous NIJ testing process.

While nearly all body armor sold in America is rated according to NIJ standards (Level IIIA, Level III, Level IV, etc.), not every company can claim their products are NIJ-certified. This means that the NIJ has not actually subjected these products to its rigorous testing, and at most, the merchant selling the product has done its own individual testing, which is frequently substandard.

Some manufacturers produce armor that meets the bulletproof ratings set by the NIJ but fail to meet the temperature or atmospheric requirements. In practice, this means that these non-NIJ vests or plates may be bulletproof fresh out of the box but may deteriorate when subjected to extreme heat, such as when they’re stored away in a car and constantly exposed to the extreme heat of a hot parking lot.

These NIJ-rated but not certified vests, due to their substandard manufacturing and testing methods, are usually much cheaper than true NIJ-certified armor, which makes them an attractive option for those who don’t want to spend the money on the “real deal.”

Thankfully, BulletSafe does not have a price point issue because of the materials it’s made of. BulletSafe vests are crafted from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene blended with aramid fibers, a ballistic blend discovered by our founder, Tom Nardone, while he was working for Sikorsky, designing bulletproof fuel tank liners for their helicopters.

Understanding the importance of NIJ certification underscores the significance of BulletSafe's commitment to rigorous testing procedures. While some brands may cut corners to offer cheaper alternatives, BulletSafe stands firm in its dedication to quality and reliability. Our vests undergo meticulous testing by the NIJ to ensure they meet and exceed their standards, providing peace of mind to our customers.

Testing Procedures

NIJ Testing Procedures involve rigorous assessments to ensure the quality and effectiveness of body armor. All hard armor, such as ballistic plates, undergo a 24-shot perforation/backface deformation test, along with either a 24-shot or 12-shot ballistic limit test. Prior to testing, the armor is stored at a temperature range between 77° ± 18° F and a relative humidity of 20 – 50%, simulating ambient range conditions, for at least 24 hours.

For Level III protection, the compliance test involves shooting the armor with 7.62 NATO rounds, while Level IV plates are tested against .30 caliber M2 AP rounds, commonly known as the .30-06. These tests are tailored to the specific levels of protection expected from the bulletproof vests. Level III vests are designed to withstand medium to large caliber rifle rounds ranging from 5.56x45mm up to 7.62x51mm NATO rounds, while Level IV armor is engineered to resist .30-06 AP rounds.

Level IIIA soft armor undergoes rigorous testing to ensure its efficacy in protecting against various ballistic threats. Specifically, this type of body armor is subjected to testing with .357 SiG FMJ Flat Nose bullets and .44 Magnum rounds, reflecting the diverse range of pistol threats it may encounter in real-world scenarios. By undergoing such thorough testing, NIJ-certified Level IIIA soft armor, like that of BulletSafe provides wearers with confidence in its ability to provide reliable protection against a range of firearm threats, from handguns to more powerful firearms.

In simplified terms, this means Level IIIA soft armor is meant to defend against handgun rounds, Level III armor is made for intermediate centerfire rifle cartridges, while Level IV is made for large caliber armor piercing rounds.

While this is not a comprehensive examination of all the testing the NIJ subjects armor to, many brands may do the bare minimum and claim they offer a product that meets the standard, BulletSafe distinguishes itself through the thoroughness of the NIJ testing process and the adherence to established standards. Our armor not only meets but exceeds these standards, ensuring reliability and peace of mind in high-stakes situations. From Level IIIA soft armor designed to withstand handgun rounds to Level IV plates engineered to resist powerful rifle ammunition, each piece of BulletSafe gear undergoes meticulous testing to guarantee optimal performance. By prioritizing quality materials, innovative design, and stringent testing protocols, BulletSafe upholds its commitment to providing top-tier protection to its customers. In a world where safety is paramount, investing in NIJ-certified body armor is not just a choice but a necessity, and BulletSafe stands as a trusted ally in ensuring personal safety and security.

On a quiet afternoon in Monroe, North Carolina, 32-year-old Moja Estep strolled through his local Walmart clad in a plate carrier, armed with a Glock, a Chiappa Rhino, an AK-47, and several knives.

Cell phone footage captured Estep casually minding his business, conversing on his phone while navigating the Walmart aisles like any typical shopper. While some smiled and waved at him, others gave him nervous looks. While most responsible advocates of the Second Amendment have no issue with individuals carrying firearms in public, some understandably felt alarmed seeing Estep equipped with such an array of weaponry. Consequently, he was later arrested and charged with a misdemeanor for "going about armed to the terror of the people."

In his defense, Estep clarified that he wasn't behaving in a threatening manner and had no intention of causing harm. The only reason why he was in Walmart with his rifle in the first place was to purchase a new sling for it.

While many of us carry firearms in public for self-defense, numerous self-defense experts would argue that maintaining the element of surprise offers the greatest advantage. This same principle is also for one's gear and its visibility.

There are some instances where open-carry gun owners have been unexpectedly disarmed by opportunistic criminals. Slick-fingered thieves have been captured on video snatching pistols out of waistbands or holsters and using their ill-gotten weapons on their owners. This is why it’s smarter to carry concealed. Similarly, the same concept applies to body armor. Whether worn by law enforcement, military personnel, security professionals, or civilians mindful of their safety, the goal is personal protection. A police officer or a security guard wants to be visible to act as a deterrent. However, an ordinary civilian would be smart to not draw attention to himself.

Logically, a potential assailant is more likely to neutralize the first perceived threat before escalating violence. By wearing body armor, one presents oneself as a threat. Concealing protective gear reduces this perception, much like concealing a firearm.

Perhaps a more discreet option like a gun bag for his rifle and BulletSafe’s Conceal Vest might have been better for him to not draw so much unnecessary attention. This innovative vest maintains Level IIIA protection while prioritizing discretion with features such as low-profile Velcro, soft edges for comfort, and a modified cut for enhanced mobility. The Conceal Vest would have allowed Estep to move freely while maintaining a high level of safety.

Ultimately, I'm not dictating what individuals should or shouldn't do, but the incident involving Moja Estep underscores the impact of outward appearances. Despite his harmless intentions, Estep's conspicuous attire sparked fear among the people around him.

While individuals have the right to bear arms and protect themselves, exercising this right in a manner that doesn't needlessly alarm others is paramount. Whether it's carrying firearms or wearing body armor, discretion and mindfulness can mitigate unnecessary fear and tension in public spaces, not to mention draw the attention of criminals.