It's important for readers to consider that the data covers a range of incidents, including gang shootings, domestic violence, shootings at sports games and after-hours school events, suicides, fights escalating into shootings, and accidents. The Violence Project's research involves interviewing survivors and perpetrators of mass shootings, aiming to fully comprehend the causes of gun violence and how it can be prevented. The project attributes the rise in gun violence to fallout following the COVID pandemic, amplified by social media-induced anger, bullying, diminished faith in societal institutions, and the accessibility of guns to children.
In the post-Columbine era, American schools have approached school shooting drills as if they were inevitable emergencies, akin to fire or earthquake drills. Unfortunately, educators often overlook the fact that these drills inadvertently train potential future shooters. Moreover, these plans don't effectively prevent shootings but only show parents and the media that schools are addressing – or trying to address – the issue. So, what's the solution?
The project argues that Columbine has become a blueprint for modern-day shooters. Some even choose to commit their shootings on the 20th of a given month, since Columbine happened on April 20. Some modern school shooters reported that they could relate to the Columbine shooters because they were depressed and suicidal and wanted to pull off their own shootings as an homage to this first act of violence.
One of the early warning signs of a potential school shooter is obsession. If schools could identify students engaging in obsessive research about school shootings, intervention becomes crucial. The aim isn't necessarily to punish but to provide the necessary help. Harsh legal deterrents are unlikely to prevent school shootings, as many perpetrators see their acts as a "last hurrah," intending to die as a final act of revenge against what they perceive to be a hostile world. To these people, a school shooting is a form of suicide.
Unlike conventional security threats defending against an external enemy, school shootings are typically perpetrated by a student familiar with the building's layout, class schedules, and whatever safeguards the school may have installed. The Violence Project stresses the need for school personnel to act when observing changes in a student's behavior. According to their research, 87% of school shooters were in crisis before the incident, displaying a marked change in behavior triggered by an event at school or home. It's crucial to note these noticeable behavioral changes in the days leading up to the shooting.
Changes may include discussing suicide, heightened agitation, excessive tardiness, and self-imposed isolation away from other students. Therefore, it's crucial for teachers and students to stay watchful and take action when noticing these behaviors. In some cases of mass shootings that could have been prevented, students were aware that a possible issue but failed to report it to a teacher or responsible adult. The Violence Project believes that identifying potential school shooters during these crisis moments is the primary defense.
Meanwhile, at home, firearm enthusiasts with children should recognize that safe storage is crucial for gun safety. Biometric gun safes prevent unauthorized access while providing a quick and easy way for home defenders to access their weapons in emergencies. Given that the majority of school shooters obtain guns from their parents, any laws prohibiting kids from owning guns become ineffective.
Addressing the complex issue of school shootings demands a multifaceted approach involving increased awareness, early intervention, and responsible firearm storage. The Violence Project's information highlights how crucial it is to notice when students' behavior changes and take action to keep them safe. Schools, teachers, and parents play a vital role in creating a supportive environment to prevent future tragedies. By working together to understand the reasons behind gun violence, taking practical steps, and securing firearms responsibly, we can make schools safer for our youth. It's a shared responsibility that requires everyone to commit to the well-being of our communities.
]]>There are many factors that influence the ergonomics and mobility of a particular piece of armor, including the style of its cut, its weight, and the material it is made of, and a discriminating buyer should be armed with the knowledge to make an informed purchase.
The choice between cut styles significantly impacts an individual's mobility. The swimmer's cut, characterized by tapered shoulders, prioritizes enhanced arm and shoulder mobility. This makes it particularly advantageous for professions like law enforcement or military personnel who need to maintain agility in dynamic situations. Conversely, the SAPI-style cut sacrifices some mobility for a larger protective area around the torso, an optimal choice in scenarios where comprehensive coverage takes precedence.
Weight is a crucial factor influencing an individual's ability to move freely while wearing body armor. BulletSafe’s soft armor is NIJA Level IIIA certified and composed of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene with a blend of aramid fibers, a lighter and denser material than Kevlar. This strong lightweight armor is designed to offer protection against handgun rounds at Level IIIA but can be combined with polymers to create a Level III or IV ballistic plate, capable of defeating rifle fire. Lighter Level IIIA armor is suitable for situations where agility and speed are paramount, such as for law enforcement officers who might have to chase after fleeing suspects. They are not ideal, however, in situations where one may expect threats to carry rifles. Maritime security and overseas private security contractors would be safer with the stronger but heavier Level IV plates. However, these harder ballistic plates can be heavier, potentially restricting mobility. Striking the right balance between protection and weight is imperative.
III. Body Armor Material:
Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) is renowned for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and is quickly replacing traditional materials like steel and ceramics. Its lightweight nature ensures superior mobility for the wearer without compromising ballistic resistance. Unlike steel, UHMWPE exhibits flexibility, absorbing and dispersing the impact energy rather than succumbing to fractures. In comparison to ceramics, UHMWPE offers a more cost-effective solution while maintaining comparable ballistic performance. Moreover, UHMWPE's versatility extends to its buoyancy in water, making it suitable for diverse applications, including maritime operations. The remarkable properties of UHMWPE position it as a leading choice for modern body armor, showcasing a harmonious blend of lightweight design, flexibility, and formidable ballistic protection.
When buying body armor, it's crucial to strike a balance between mobility and protection. Whether opting for the agility-enhancing swimmer's cut or the comprehensive coverage of the shooter's cut, factoring in the weight of the armor, and considering innovative materials like UHMWPE, each decision contributes to a personalized and effective protective ensemble. In the dynamic landscape of personal safety, the choices made in acquiring body armor reflect a commitment to both mobility and security, ensuring that the wearer is well-equipped for the challenges ahead.
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Understanding the .45-70 Round and the Level IV plate
The .45-70 cartridge is a potent and historically significant ammunition known for its association with classic lever-action rifles. The specific round under consideration is a 325-grain projectile traveling at a muzzle velocity of 2,050 feet per second (fps). Comparatively, Level IV vests are explicitly designed to thwart larger and faster .30-06 AP 166gr rounds, which typically travel at 2,880 fps.
Velocity and Trajectory Differences
One of the key factors that differentiates the .45-70 round from the .30-06 is the velocity at which these bullets travel. The spitzer or "sharp point" design of the .30-06 imparts a flatter trajectory, enhancing its aerodynamics for greater accuracy over longer distances. In contrast, the .45-70's round nose design sacrifices some of this trajectory flatness but compensates with greater impact energy.
Impact Energy vs. Penetration
The distinction between a round nose bullet like the .45-70 and a spitzer bullet becomes pivotal when considering impact energy and penetration capabilities. The .45-70 delivers higher impact energy due to its design, making it formidable in terms of stopping power. However, it also tends to exhibit lesser penetration compared to spitzer bullets.
Vest Performance
While the NIJ Level IV certification doesn't explicitly cover the .45-70 or other lever-action bullets, independent tests have suggested that the BulletSafe ballistic plate may provide a reasonable level of protection against these formidable projectiles. The armor's design, coupled with its ability to handle the impact of .30-06 AP rounds, hints at its potential to withstand the unique challenges posed by lever-action ammunition.
It is crucial to approach such claims with a degree of caution. The absence of official NIJ testing for these specific types of ammunition means that the vest's performance against .45-70 rounds and other lever action bullets remains a topic of speculation and independent testing. Users should be aware that relying on a vest for untested scenarios may compromise their safety.
While the BulletSafe Tactical Plate Carrier Kit’s design and performance against large caliber AP rounds suggests a robust protective capability, users should exercise caution and seek out the latest independent test results before relying on the vest for specific ammunition types. As the realm of ballistic protection continues to evolve, it is essential for users to stay informed and make decisions based on the most accurate and up-to-date information available.
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Security
It should go without saying that those whose duty it is to guard a location from criminal elements will need protection. A security officer guarding a high value target or individual puts his life on the line every time he shows up to work. Many security companies require their officers to purchase their own vests and equipment, and we at BulletSafe believe that these professionals should be able to have access to effective, durable body armor without breaking the bank, which is one of the reasons why BulletSafe VP3 vests are priced at just $299.99.
EMTs
Paramedics and medical professionals can sometimes find themselves caring for violent or belligerent patients under the influence of mind-altering drugs. These people, without full control over their own actions, will many times attempt to attack the very people who are trying to help them. EMTs are at 22 times greater risk of being attacked on the job than other workers in the United States, according to a report by the CDC. Glass bottles, knives, and improvised weapons are the most common implements used against paramedics. While BulletSafe’s VP3 is not rated specifically for sharp objects such as these, they have been known to provide exceptional melee protection.
Teachers
Schools seem to be at the forefront of the school shooting epidemic. Several school districts, primarily those in the American South, have come up with the common sense solution of simply arming and training teachers to serve as a deterrent to potential school shooters, but in districts where this practice is specifically and vigorously forbidden, it is up to the teachers to find another way to protect their students. A bulletproof vest doesn’t have to be solely for the teacher’s personal protection. By removing the vest and bracing it against a door or window with the proper barricade technique (see below), a teacher can create a good bulletproof barrier capable of stopping the most common pistol rounds ranging from 9mm to .44 magnum.
A proper barricade uses structural integrity and not the weight of objects to prevent intruders from opening the door.
CPS
CPS (Child Protective Services) agents may require bulletproof vests for work due to the inherent risks associated with their role. Working in communities with high crime rates or volatile situations, agents may encounter hostility and danger while investigating cases of child abuse or domestic violence. The unpredictable nature of their work, coupled with the emotional intensity of situations such as child removals or involvement in drug-related or gang-related cases, increases the potential for confrontations and violence. While not all CPS agents wear bulletproof vests as a standard practice, it would be beneficial to use bulletproof vests to ensure the safety of agents as they fulfill their crucial mission of safeguarding the welfare of children.
Range officers
Individuals who work in public venues are well aware that there are always a few guests who exhibit a lack of common sense. Shooting ranges mix the element of danger with the unpredictable behavior of the public. Not everyone who wants to shoot possesses the necessary skills to handle firearms safely, placing range officers at risk of negligent discharges or encounters with shooters who struggle to adhere to basic safety regulations. For range officers, the use of body armor can offer peace of mind, allowing them to prioritize their safety while also ensuring the overall safety of everyone present on the range.
Bank workers
Professionals in the banking sector may require bulletproof vests due to the inherent risk of armed robberies or intrusions targeting the valuable assets housed within financial institutions. The visibility of such protective gear serves as a deterrent and provides a layer of defense in unpredictable situations, safeguarding bank workers who may be at risk of injury during criminal incidents. The use of bulletproof vests is part of a broader strategy for emergency preparedness, ensuring that employees have a measure of protection against potential violence.
Professionals in various dangerous occupations, including those in the banking sector, can benefit from the use of armor as a precautionary measure. Whether in law enforcement, security, or other high-risk fields, the provision of protective gear helps mitigate the potential harm individuals may face while carrying out their duties. By prioritizing safety through the use of armor, employers can contribute to the overall well-being of their workforce in environments where the threat of violence is a persistent concern.
]]>It seems like more folks are finally starting to see firearms as the self-defense tools they’re meant to be. Ironically (but unsurprisingly), most of those who advocate for stricter gun control don’t happen to own any guns at all. A CNN poll revealed that 76% of non-gun households support taking away firearms from the average American. On the flip side, only 45% of gun-owning households are in favor of any sort of gun control.
When it comes to the government's role, opinions are likewise divided. About 58% believe the government can put a stop to mass shootings, while the other 42% are a bit skeptical. Some argue that no matter what laws are in place, bad stuff is bound to happen. Murder's been a crime since biblical times, and even the threat of the death penalty hasn't been able to scare off determined murderers and terrorists.
So, who's responsible for your safety? Well, it looks like it's on you, not the government. You're your own first responder. In a worst-case scenario, the police might take a few minutes to swoop in, and by then, it could be too late.
So, what's your game plan? Take a good look at where you live, check out how prevalent crime is in your local area, and don't forget to look up your state's gun laws to see if you can even carry a gun to defend yourself in the first place. If safety's your top priority and your state allows it, consider applying for a concealed carry license. The best guarantor of your own safety is a trusty handgun you’re trained and familiar with. If you’re on the fence about carrying around a weapon or if your state’s laws don’t permit you to carry one, but you’re still concerned about gun violence in your area, consider a BulletSafe VP3 vest or a tactical plate carrier for that extra layer of protection.
The VP3 is the pinnacle of lightweight, concealable body armor. It's made from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene with a blend of aramid fibers to make a lightweight yet dense material, weighing in at just 5.16lbs for an extra-large vest. You can slip it under your clothes or a hefty jacket without feeling like you're hauling around a suit of armor. Plus, it's NIJ certified and packs a punch, stopping everything from a 9mm to a .44 magnum.
BulletSafe's tactical plate carrier kit is equipped with Level IV plates, capable of defeating rifle fire from most firearms up to 30-06 AP. The no-nonsense plate carrier is lightweight and free of unnecessary obstructions, with integrated MOLLE webbing for users to add their own accessories. This plate carrier is perfect for security officers or law enforcement agencies who need the heavier kit to deal with more substantial security threats.
In a world where opinions on gun ownership and government intervention vary widely, it's clear that personal safety is a matter of individual responsibility. The rising number of gun owners reflects a growing belief in self-protection, as highlighted by shifting perspectives on gun control. Whether you choose to exercise your Second Amendment rights or advocate for stronger regulations, the reality is that being your own first responder is paramount. As discussions around safety continue, considering practical measures, like obtaining a concealed carry license or investing in protective gear like the BulletSafe VP3 vest, underscores the importance of proactive personal security. In the end, the path to safety may differ, but taking charge of your own well-being in a world where uncertainties persist is something we should all be thinking about.
]]>Yet, with Turkey Day swiftly approaching, we at BulletSafe saw an opportunity to shed light on a rather unique form of protection. Picture this hypothetical situation: a dining table, accommodating six to eight guests, stretches to 78 inches or 2 yards in length. If shotgun-toting grandma were to open fire from one end of the table, every shot would be considered point-blank. Shotguns, originally crafted for close-quarters combat within the confines of World War I trenches, can wreak havoc at such close range.
While some hunters may argue that they've taken shots at a turkey only for it to flee, likening it to shooting a bulletproof vest encased in stuffing, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. First, a live turkey is protected by a robust layer of feathers designed to shield it from the elements. Second, when a turkey is hit in the body by a shotgun with turkey loads from distances exceeding 40 yards, it might be wounded but is unlikely to meet its demise due to the aforementioned protective feather layer.
At point-blank range, however, the tables turn, and the turkey's fate is sealed.
That is unless you take two crucial steps: a vigilant weapons check at the entrance to prevent any potential dinner table disruptions and the fortification of your beloved turkey with a BulletSafe IIIA bulletproof vest. Even at point-blank range, the BulletSafe IIIA vest can thwart large-caliber slug rounds and heavy buckshot like 00. While it may result in some unsightly deformation on your centerpiece, you can rest assured that none of the shotgun pellets will breach its defenses.
Soft armor vests, such as the BulletSafe VP3, boast a NIJ Level IIIA rating, primarily designed to halt pistol caliber rounds ranging from 9mm to .44 magnum. However, in practice, they also provide protection against shotgun rounds, either from buckshot or slugs.
In one of our videos, BulletSafe’s very own Jake demonstrated the dependability of our VP3 vests by actually up-armoring a turkey and blasting it with a round of buckshot followed up with a slug to the back. Just as predicted, there was no penetration.
While we sincerely hope that no one has to grapple with shotgun-wielding, holiday-induced chaos this Thanksgiving, we, at BulletSafe, encourage you to prioritize your safety in this unpredictable world. Consider acquiring one of our bulletproof vests for added peace of mind.
]]>As Halloween approaches, it's not just the spooky costumes and haunted houses that capture our imagination. At BulletSafe, we decided to combine the spirit of the season with a bit of science and firearms expertise in a fun and unconventional way. Jake, a Brand Manager at BulletSafe, took the stage to test whether pumpkins could withstand the impact of various handgun and rifle calibers. The result? A fascinating and entertaining experiment that left us all in awe and reinforced an essential safety message.
Jake kicked off the experiment with a 9mm FMJ round. The round managed to punch its way through four pumpkins before coming to rest in the fifth. The soft, fleshy interior of the pumpkins didn't prove to be a significant challenge for this relatively small caliber bullet.
Next up was a .45 caliber round. This bullet, with its larger size and greater force, was able to penetrate five pumpkins and even nick the sixth. The pumpkins seemed to offer little resistance to this bullet's path.
But the real excitement came when Jake decided to bring out the big guns, in this case, a .44 Magnum. Firing a soft-point jacketed round, the .44 Magnum plowed through all the way to the seventh pumpkin. It was becoming evident that pumpkins were no match for these powerful bullets.
In a playful twist, Jake then had some Halloween-themed fun with a 12-gauge shotgun, systematically eliminating a row of frightening pumpkins. It was a reminder of the sheer force and impact that shotguns possess.
But what's the takeaway from this entertaining experiment? Beyond the festive spirit and the impressive demonstration of bullet penetration, it's a crucial reminder of the need for effective personal protection. Pumpkins, while they might make excellent Halloween decorations, are no match for real-world ballistic threats.
As the video concludes, Jake artfully transforms a makeshift Jack-O-Lantern into the final menacing pumpkin, showcasing a bit of Halloween spirit amidst the ballistic excitement.
So, this Halloween, while you're enjoying the spookiness and fun of the season, remember that if you ever need vital protection, a pumpkin definitely won't cut it. BulletSafe offers a range of ballistic protection equipment, such as the VP3 bulletproof vest, designed to provide you with the peace of mind you need in a world where safety is paramount.
Happy Halloween from the folks at BulletSafe, where science, bullets, and pumpkins collide to create an unforgettable holiday spectacle!
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Just like its many inaccurate portrayals of romantic relationships and one-man armies, Hollywood gets bulletproof vests wrong. Here are just a few examples:
Alien Nation (1988): In this science fiction thriller, a .454 Casull casually blows a hole through a soft armor vest at a police firing range. In reality, soft armor vests used by police are rated at Level IIIA, capable of stopping most handgun rounds up to .44 Magnum. While the .454 Casull is a larger round than the .44 Magnum, independent testing has shown that it will not likely be able to penetrate soft armor. However, even if a victim wears a IIIA vest, they will still suffer from heavy internal bleeding from the sheer force of the round.
Back to the Future (1985): In this classic time travel action-comedy, the eccentric scientist Doc Brown gets riddled with AK rounds by angry Libyan terrorists who were cheated out of their plutonium, an event which forced his assistant Marty McFly to travel back in time to warn him. One full-length feature film and a time skip later, Doc Brown dons a bulletproof vest and gets shot again, but is saved thanks to his new bulletproof armor, which in reality would have not done much to stop the 7.62x39mm AK rounds. Being soft armor, the maximum rating for these bulletproof vests would be Level IIIA and the vast majority of centerfire rifle rounds would have punched straight through. In contrast, Level III and IV bulletproof armor is made of rigid ceramic, steel, or UHMWPE plates, and these are the only types of armor meant to stop centerfire rifle rounds like the .223 or the AK’s 7.62x39mm.
Batman Begins (2005): Batman’s bat suit is both flexible and bulletproof. It is made from a Nomex outer shell with a sublayer of bulletproof armor. This armored layer would be feasible if it was made from a lightweight material like ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, the same material BulletSafe bulletproof vests are made from.
Realistically, though, Bruce Wayne asks his head of R&D, Lucis Fox, to make a suit that’s more resistant to dog bites. Even though a vest might be rated to stop high velocity ballistic rounds, the same vest might not be rated to stop things like knives or other sharp, narrow objects like dog fangs from piercing it.
Hollywood often portrays bulletproof vests as being capable of stopping any round, regardless of the caliber or type. However, the reality is that bulletproof vests are not perfect, and they can only stop certain types of rounds up to a certain caliber.
The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) has a rating system for bulletproof vests, which goes from Level I to Level IV. Level I vests are the least protective, and they can only stop pistol rounds up to .357 Magnum. Level IV vests are the most protective, and they can stop rifle rounds up to .30-06 Springfield.
It's important to note that even Level IV vests cannot stop all rifle rounds. There are some very powerful rifle cartridges, such as the .50 BMG, that can penetrate any bulletproof vest.
So, if you're looking for the best possible protection, you need to choose a bulletproof vest that is rated to stop the types of rounds you're most likely to encounter. And, it's important to remember that even the best bulletproof vest cannot guarantee complete protection.
BulletSafe bulletproof vests are made from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), which is one of the strongest and lightest materials available. BulletSafe vests are rated to stop a wide range of pistol and rifle rounds, up to and including .30-06 Springfield.
BulletSafe vests are also comfortable to wear and can be concealed under clothing. They are ideal for law enforcement, security personnel, and anyone else who needs the best possible protection from ballistic threats.
Click here to learn more about our bulletproof vests and to place an order.
]]>One of the foremost reasons bulletproof vests do not extend below the navel is to ensure the wearer's freedom of movement. While the primary goal is to protect against ballistic threats, it is equally important for individuals wearing these vests to be able to perform essential tasks, such as running, sitting, and even driving, without hindrance.
Most bulletproof vests cover this area above the pelvis, allowing freedom of joint movement while protecting the most vital internal organs.
A bulletproof vest that covers the entire torso, including the abdominal region, would limit the wearer's flexibility and comfort significantly. Blocking the body's flexible abdominal muscles with rigid armor material would make sitting down in a patrol car or armored vehicle uncomfortable and restrictive. In emergency situations, officers and security personnel need to be agile and quick on their feet, and cumbersome armor could impede their response time.
The practice of designing armor to end at or slightly above the navel has a historical precedent dating back to the Middle Ages. Medieval breastplates or cuirasses featured a lower front piece known as the "plackart" that ended at the "natural waist," which is just above the belly button. Below this section, metal strips known as "faulds" flared out, resembling a skirt. This design allowed knights and men-at-arms to move freely, whether on foot or horseback. The faulds, in particular, played a crucial role in enabling mobility without sacrificing protection.
In modern law enforcement and security, duty belts are essential equipment for officers and security personnel. These belts come equipped with various accessory pouches, containing items like handcuffs, tourniquets, radios, and firearms. Easy access to these tools is vital for professionals who may need to respond swiftly to a wide range of situations.
A full-torso bulletproof vest that extends below the navel would obstruct the duty belt and make it challenging to reach these critical tools quickly. In high-stress situations, any hindrance in accessing equipment could have dire consequences. Therefore, maintaining a clear and unobstructed path to the duty belt is a practical consideration that influences the design of bulletproof vests.
While some armor solutions with more extensive body coverage do exist, such as the U.S. Army's Improved Outer Tactical Vest (IOTV), these vests are often met with disdain by troops due to their weight and mobility issues. Carrying additional weight can be physically demanding, especially for those who need to be agile and responsive in dynamic situations. Balancing protection with the ability to move swiftly is a delicate trade-off.
In summary, the design of bulletproof vests not extending below the navel is a deliberate choice to strike a balance between protection and practicality.
]]>Relying solely on armor like bulletproof vests may not always be an option, particularly when you’re caught unaware. It's crucial to understand that not all materials are created equal, but anything capable of rapidly decelerating a bullet or stopping it outright is considered "bulletproof." Thin corrugated sheet metal and wooden planks, for example, are far from effective at stopping bullets. In fact, wooden barriers can shatter upon impact, sending bits of wood flying at whoever was unfortunate enough to choose the wood for cover.
Steel, however, with its exceptional strength and durability, was one of the earliest materials used for bulletproofing. In the early days of firearms, steel armor was effective at deflecting low-velocity musket rounds. However, as bullets evolved into the powerful centerfire cartridges of the modern era, steel had to become thicker and heavier to provide adequate protection. This made it impractical for armor, particularly for personal use.
Contrastingly, earth or tightly packed sand can be remarkably effective at stopping bullets. Sand, for example, can absorb over 85 percent of the energy exerted against it, its resistance increasing with projectile speed. This means that sand can outperform even steel when it comes to absorbing ballistic impacts. If you're ever in a situation where you need to fortify your home, consider filling your barriers with sand.
I say this because the walls of modern American homes are not normally rated to stop bullets. Small caliber pistol ammunition has been known to penetrate the cheap, thin walls characteristic of American architecture, as was demonstrated in a recent incident in San Antonio in July 2023. A man who was doing nothing but lying in his bed was shot through the walls by a shooter who was seemingly attacking apartments at random. In the same way, another victim was killed in May of the same year when his next door neighbor was modifying his loaded weapon and accidentally fired it through the wall. This highlights the importance of understanding the limitations of common construction materials.
When it comes to bulletproof construction materials, the ballistic resistance of concrete largely depends on its thickness. A solid 4-inch section of wall can effectively stop bullets ranging from .40 S&W to .308, while a 6-inch brick wall reinforced with 4 inches of clay can withstand even .50 caliber rounds.
However, when it comes to protecting the human body, we need materials that offer high tensile strength while remaining lightweight and flexible. This is where UHMWPE and Kevlar enter the scene.
UHMWPE, or Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene, derives its strength from its unique molecular structure. Its long, overlapping molecular chains provide enormous tensile strength, making it an ideal material for bulletproof applications. In comparison, Kevlar derives its strength from numerous short inter-chain bonds. Both materials have revolutionized personal protection.
Kevlar, accidentally discovered by the Dupont tire company, is seven times stronger than steel, while UHMWPE takes it a step further by being fifteen times stronger than steel. In fact, UHMWPE holds the distinction of being the world's strongest fiber, and the material used in BulletSafe bulletproof vests.
The pursuit of bulletproof materials has come a long way from the days of heavy steel armor. Today, innovative materials like UHMWPE and Kevlar provide lightweight, flexible, and incredibly strong protection against ballistic threats. As technology continues to advance, we can expect further breakthroughs in materials science, pushing the boundaries of what we consider "bulletproof." In a world where personal safety is paramount, the evolution of these materials brings us one step closer to a safer and more secure future.
]]>In the face of such challenges, we have to ask: How can we better protect these courageous men and women who risk their safety (and at times, even their lives) to save others? Statistics from a 2017 CDC report paint a grim picture. According to the report, more than 2,000 EMS professionals are injured annually in violence-related incidents. This statistic is a staggering 22 times higher than the national average for all workers. A separate report suggests female EMS personnel may face an even greater risk of violence-related injuries, further illustrating the need for action.
Consider the case of two EMTs who responded to a call at a J.W. Marriott in Georgia. They courageously rushed to aid a person who had collapsed in a lobby bathroom, only to find themselves under a violent attack. Another incident unfolded in New York, where an EMT was viciously stabbed while trying to provide assistance.
In light of these sobering realities, it's imperative that EMTs seriously consider integrating bulletproof vests into their standard gear. One promising solution lies in BulletSafe vests, which offer not only bulletproof protection but also defense against stabbing and slashing injuries. While originally designed to protect users against ballistic threats, the BulletSafe VP3, the company’s lightest and most comfortable model which gives wearers the protection they need for the most probable threats.
These vests are designed to withstand various forms of violence, from bullets to sharp-edged weapons such as ice picks or hatchets.
The secret to their effectiveness lies in their construction. Crafted from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene and an aramid fiber blend, BulletSafe vests consist of multiple aramid layers carefully stacked to create a lightweight yet formidable defense. Their ballistic layers of a VP3 are NIJ-certified to Level IIIA, ensuring protection against bullets up to .44 magnum, while also being effective at preventing stabbing and slashing attacks from sharp-edged weapons.
EMTs are the unsung heroes who confront the chaos and dangers of the world every day. In their selfless pursuit of saving lives, they often find themselves in perilous situations, exposed to violence. The CDC's alarming statistics and real-life accounts of EMTs under attack underscore the urgency of equipping them with the best protection available.
BulletSafe vests offer a lifeline, ensuring EMTs can carry out their life-saving duties with enhanced confidence and safety. The incorporation of bulletproof vests into their standard gear is not just practical; it's a moral imperative. Protecting those who dedicate their lives to saving others is a duty society must uphold. As we continue to revere and respect the invaluable work of EMTs, we must prioritize their safety, with bulletproof vests serving as a crucial element of that commitment.
]]>Understand the Importance of Proper Fit
Before delving into the specifics of fitting a bulletproof vest, it's essential to understand why a proper fit matters. A bulletproof vest is designed to absorb and disperse the impact energy of bullets or other projectiles, thereby reducing the risk of injury. However, for it to perform optimally, it needs to be snugly fitted to your body. A loose vest may shift upon impact, reducing its protective capabilities, while an overly tight vest could limit your movement and lead to discomfort.
Take Accurate Measurements
The first step in ensuring a well-fitting bulletproof vest is to take accurate measurements of your body. Use a flexible measuring tape to measure your chest, waist, and hips. It's important to measure over the clothing you would typically wear underneath the vest, such as a uniform or shirt. Be sure to measure both while standing and while seated, as the vest should accommodate your movements in various positions.
Consult the Sizing Chart
BulletSafe bulletproof vests come in various sizes, determined by a user’s height and weight. Use the measurements you've taken to consult the sizing chart provided by the manufacturer. If you find yourself on the upper end of a particular size, it would be safer to get one size larger than what’s recommended. For example, a 5’2” 350lb man would find himself at the end of the 3XL size spectrum, but in truth he would be better off with a 4XL vest, which would allow better mobility and comfort.
However, if you are a heavy person with a slim stomach such as a bodybuilder, you would do well to order one size smaller.
Consider Your Clothing
Keep in mind that wearing your bulletproof vest under your regular clothing can add some bulk. It’s advisable to wear a t-shirt or tank top underneath to prevent chafing. If your intended use requires you to wear multiple layers or thicker clothing, such as during colder weather, account for this when choosing the vest size and choose jackets that are one size larger for more arm mobility.
Check for Adjustability
Most modern bulletproof vests come with adjustable straps and panels to fine-tune the fit. When putting on the vest, it's easier to undo only one side of the vest before donning it, rather than undoing both sides and the shoulders. Adjust the shoulder straps to ensure the proper length, making sure the vest isn't riding up too high or too low. The vest should cover the area between the clavicle and the navel, aligning its top edge with the uppermost part of your sternum and the bottom edge with your navel. This placement ensures protection for your vital organs and comfortable movement when sitting down.
Test Mobility
It's important to note that most vests will not fit properly right out of the box. They will have to be adjusted to the individual wearer's body. After fitting the vest, test your mobility by performing a range of movements, including bending, reaching, sitting, and squatting. The vest should allow you to move comfortably in both sitting and standing positions. If the vest is placed too low below the navel, it may ride up when you sit down, causing discomfort. However, the vest does not need to be flush with a duty belt; leaving room for hip rotation and sitting/standing comfort is important.
Investing in a bulletproof vest is a significant step towards personal safety, but its effectiveness hinges on proper fit. A well-fitted vest not only enhances protection but also allows for comfortable movement during critical moments. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your bulletproof vest fits properly and serves as an effective shield in potentially dangerous situations. Remember, the right fit could make all the difference between safety and vulnerability.
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This is stupid. Don’t booby trap your home.
While not explicitly illegal in federal law, laying booby traps around your house indicates an intent to cause harm, and if a home invader dies because of your expertly rigged shotgun trap, then you have committed murder. This would be especially true if you were nowhere near the trap when it went off, negating any self-defense claims. The courts will destroy you.
Instead of turning your home into a suburban Viet Cong bunker, focus instead on turning it into an unassailable castle. There are several legal things you can do to turn your home or apartment into a hardened target that can be done without too much strain on your wallet or your convenience.
Peepholes and Peephole Cameras
The antiquated peephole is no longer the best option for checking who’s at the door. You won’t be able to see much, and your view will likely be distorted. By replacing your traditional peephole with a Ring Peephole Camera, you’ll be able to see more of what’s going on outside your door, even from your own mobile device or PC. The 1080p full color HD camera wakes up whenever someone rings its integrated doorbell or triggers its motion sensor, and it comes with built-in night vision to detect anyone approaching in the darkness.
Reinforcing your door
A door bar, also known as a door jammer or door stopper, is a cheap, effective way to block any would-be intruders. Relying on physics instead of locks, a security bar is placed between your doorknob and the ground, creating a brace which makes the door impossible to open. Typically adjustable in length, they consist of a bar or rod that can be extended or retracted to fit different door widths.
High-quality door security bars are designed to be tamper-resistant. They may have features such as non-slip rubberized grips on both ends to ensure a secure fit and prevent damage to the floor and door.
Since they’re usually placed during the night when the homeowner is sleeping most door security bars are designed for quick and easy removal in case of an emergency or when you need to leave the house. You can simply release the pressure on the bar, retract it, and put it away.
Door security bars are particularly useful for reinforcing the security of doors that may have weaker locks or are located in high crime areas. They can also be packed in a bag and used in sketchy motels. While a door security bar can add an extra layer of protection, it's important to note that it's not a substitute for proper locks and other security measures. It's always a good idea to have a comprehensive security strategy that includes strong locks, proper lighting, and possibly even a security system to ensure your safety and the security of your property.
Reinforcing windows
A simple $12 piece of plastic is all you need to stop undesirables from sliding open your windows. As long as your window isn’t simply a large piece of glass big enough for a grown man to slip through, the Burglabar is a simple device which sticks to your windows to prevent them from being opened from the outside.
This 3x2x1.38 inch self-locking hinge can be put on any sliding door or window to keep home invaders out or keep toddlers or little children in, whether a window is pulled up or down or slid to the side. For older windows or shutters that open inwards, shutter locks reinforced a simple stick cut to the length of the window and placed on the base of the shutter should be good enough to prevent entry.
Lawn
If you have a second-floor window and all you can see out of it is a tree, the window is useless, and the tree needs to go. Not only will you be able to get the benefits of more vitamin D from sunlight, but you’ll also get a view of the exterior of your house, and you’ll be able to see anyone approaching from far away.
If you imagine your home as a castle, your upper floor windows are the home defense equivalent of watchtowers, and watching the approaches to your castle gate is a vital part of any defensive strategy. Bushes or shrubs in your lawn also provide places for people to hide, either if someone is fleeing from another residence onto your property or if someone is waiting to ambush you when you walk to your garage.
I know I mentioned not to booby trap your home earlier in this article, but consider planting thorny bushes and shrubs like barberries, blackberries, cacti, or crown of thorns plants to act as a sort of natural barbed wire fence and keep home intruders away while keeping your lawn looking nice. Houseplants are neither booby traps nor deadly weapons.
Safe Room/Panic Room
A safe room doesn’t necessarily have to be an armored vault with enough food and ammo to get you and your family through a siege. Growing up, the saferoom in my house was mom and dad’s room, because it was located at the end of a narrow hallway and only had one entrance and exit. The procedure was that in the event of an emergency, I would grab my gun, head to dad’s room, he’d grab his 12ga Armscor M30 and I’d grab my .22lr AK trainer and we’d both point it at the door while waiting for whoever or whatever was in the house to finish its business and get out.
The logic in choosing a defensible position in your home is that it may be more dangerous to go looking for the intruder, especially with a flashlight that announces your presence long before you step into a room. Once a hostile knows he’s likely to be compromised, he’ll either run, change his position to hide more effectively, or fight you. Moreover, getting your entire family in one room together ensures you will be able to defend them if you are the sole firearm owner, or preferably, fight together with them if all of you have your own personal firearms.
If the burglar in question takes any of your possessions, so be it. The primary purpose of home defense is to safeguard your life and the lives of your family. No amount of money or valuables is worth your life.
Personal Protection
In the event of a break-in, we must assume the intruder is armed and dangerous. When you’re awoken by the sound of breaking glass, you may want to don body armor before reaching for your weapon and flashlight to head for your saferoom.
BulletSafe VP3 vests are NIJ certified and rated to Level IIIA, purpose-built to stop most handgun rounds up to .44 magnum. The most common pistol round in the United States today is the 9mm, so a Level IIIA vest would be more than adequate protection for such a threat. For more potent threats such as intruders armed with AR-15s, a Level IV Tactical Plate Carrier Kit is preferred. Like BulletSafe’s VP3, the armor plate inserts in a tactical plate carrier kit are NIJ certified. Made of rigid ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene and a blend of aramid fibers, these Level IV plates are rated to stop rifle rounds up to .30-06 AP.
When it comes to preparing for home defense, it's crucial to prioritize your own safety and those of your loved ones when creating a secure environment in your home.
Investing in modern security measures like peephole cameras and door security bars can significantly enhance your home's defense capabilities, so can securing windows with cost-effective devices like the Burglabar. Additionally, strategic landscaping choices, like carefully placed thorny bushes and shrubs, can create a natural deterrent without resorting to dangerous traps.
Establishing a safe room or panic room within your home serves as a practical defense strategy. By gathering your family members in one fortified location, you can better safeguard their well-being while avoiding unnecessary confrontations with intruders. Lastly, equipping yourself with body armor, such as NIJ-certified Level IIIA vests or Level IV plate carriers, can offer vital protection against potential threats, allowing you to respond more confidently and effectively.
Ultimately, the key takeaway is that while safeguarding your property is important, prioritizing life and safety should always remain paramount. By adopting legal, thoughtful, and effective home defense strategies, you can create a secure haven that protects both your physical well-being and your peace of mind.
]]>The M855 green tip features a steel tip over a tungsten-composite or lead core, encased in a full copper jacket. While it is true that this round can penetrate a steel helmet at 800 yards, it is essential to clarify that it is not classified as an armor-piercing round by the ATF.
Originally designed with the intention of enhanced penetration compared to standard FMJ rounds, the M855 green tip has been criticized as a "big bad body armor breaker." Yet, recent tests have shown that this reputation is not entirely warranted. In fact, it failed to penetrate a BulletSafe Level IV vest during rigorous testing, demonstrating its limitations against modern body armor.
For hunters, the green tip is unsuitable due to its lack of expansion, causing minimal tissue damage and limited blood loss in animals. Similarly, for self-defense purposes, its tendency to over penetrate makes it less than ideal for close-quarters encounters. Additionally, the 1-in-9 inch twist rate might reduce its performance in short-barreled weapons.
However, it is crucial to understand the original purpose behind the design of the M855 round. Invented in the 1970s and initially designated as the SS109, it was primarily focused on flight stability and penetration of light barriers, such as wood, glass, sheet metal, and heavy clothing. The development of body armor-penetrating rounds was not a priority at the time, as the first SAPI plates capable of stopping rifle fire only became available in the early 2000s.
Despite the green tip's limitations and lack of true armor-piercing capabilities, it has faced unwarranted fear and scrutiny. In 2015, the ATF attempted to reclassify the round as armor-piercing, sparking nationwide concern among gun owners. However, passionate responses from responsible firearm enthusiasts highlighted the inaccuracies of such claims and the potential infringement on Second Amendment rights, leading the ATF to withdraw their proposal.
Apart from the armor-piercing debate, there are other reasons why certain firing ranges prohibit the use of green tip ammo. It has been observed that prolonged use of this ammunition on steel targets can gradually degrade the steel, making it thinner with each hit. Additionally, the steel jacket of the M855 can produce sparks upon impact, posing a fire hazard.
If green tipped ammo is no good for piercing armor, can’t be shot at the range, and can’t be used for hunting, then what is it good for?
Long ranged shooting. That is, as long ranged as a 5.56x45mm can go. An M855 has impressive ballistics thanks to its steel core and is more accurate than a standard FMJ at ranges up to 800 yards. It also maintains supersonic flight until the same range, while ordinary FMJ rounds begin to lose supersonic velocity after around 650 yards of travel. A green tip’s round also tends to have less drop, giving it a flatter and thus more accurate trajectory.
While many state that green tip ammo is great because it’s military-issue, NATO militaries use the M855 ammo not only because of its impressive accuracy but because their hands are bound by the Hague convention on expanding ammo. The 1899 Hague Declaration stated:
“The Contracting Parties agree to abstain from the use of bullets which expand or flatten easily in the human body, such as bullets with a hard envelope which does not entirely cover the core or is pierced with incisions.”
This means, in essence, that the average civilian who is unbound by the articles of the Hague can purchase better, more destructive ammo for self-defense rather than rely on what the governments of NATO give to its soldiers.
While it is evident that green tip ammo is not the ultimate armor-piercing round as believed by some, it does find its niche in long-range shooting. With impressive ballistics and increased accuracy compared to standard FMJ rounds at extended ranges, it caters to the needs of precision shooters looking to engage targets up to 800 yards away.
In conclusion, the M855 green tip ammo's negative reputation as an illegal bullet is undeserved, as it is not officially classified as armor-piercing by the ATF. Its limitations in hunting, self-defense, and close-quarters scenarios are apparent, but its strengths lie in long-range target practice. By understanding the true capabilities of this ammunition, hunters and shooters can make informed decisions based on facts rather than misconceptions.
]]>Mag pouches: used for storing your magazines. A good number of these should be kept on your plate carrier, as they will be essential in a firefight. However, keep in mind the old military adage that “pounds equal pain” and that an excessive number of magazines in an normally peaceful environment such as a shopping center in the wealthy part of town will be both unnecessary and bad for your back. However, carrying 12 magazines while pulling security for an international company operating in a middle eastern hotspot may be necessary, since engaging a large number of enemy combatants is a realistic possibility.
Drop pouches: Used to catch empty magazines during tactical reloads, a drop pouch is a range accessory. There is no need to wear one on duty, since the precious seconds spent carefully tossing your empty magazine into your drop pouch can instead be spent engaging a threat. When performing tactical reloads in the real world, just drop your magazine. There’s a man trying to kill you on the other side, and he would like it very much if you turned your attention away from him just to toss away your empty mag for cleanliness’s sake.
IFAK: Your individual first aid kit is a necessity, whether your kit is for security, law enforcement, or private contract work. The first aid kit should contain essentials such as bandages, disinfectant, cotton balls, scissors, and a tourniquet; essentially everything needed to stop the bleeding from a gunshot wound. The first aid kit is not a field surgeon’s bag, you are not a medic. It is meant to stop you or one other person from bleeding out. It does not necessarily need to have aspirin for headaches or tums for an upset stomach. The IFAK should be easily accessible and should not require the wearer to contort his or her arm in a position that would be impossible for an injured individual to pull off.
Radio: Your radio should be easily accessible in such a way that you’d be able to queue it with one hand. Usually placed on the shoulder strap of your vest, it would be a bad idea to place your radio on your hop or any other body part that moves while you’re moving.
Multitool: An optional, but sometimes necessary accessory. You’ll never know when you’ll need a screwdriver to tighten a loose bolt on your weapon or a knife to cut off the excess tail of a zip tie. The modern multitool also has scissors for cutting bandages, pliers for utility work, and a bottle opener. Try not to go anywhere without a knife of some sort. You’ll never know when you might need it.
Hydration: This is a must. If you’re spending any good amount of time in the outdoors wearing what is essentially a weighted vest, a canteen pouch on your vest or a CamelBak on the back would be a great option. While many hydration packs come with backpack-type straps, some are outfitted with MOLLE webbing to be attached to the backs of a MOLLE-compatible tactical vest.
Flashlight: If you work security, you might be required to patrol dark parking lots or dimly lit alleys. Flashlights are also needed for peering into corners or under vehicles. It’s also useful for signaling others and can work as a nonlethal self-defense tool in a pinch. A modern tactical flashlight is small enough to conceal in its own pocket or secured by a clip on a MOLLE strap.
Pen and paper: Note-taking is essential when working any job that requires you to have attention to detail. Working a job that requires you to be out in the field with a rifle and armor is no exception. Police officers may need to jot down details of a crime as well as potential witnesses and suspects. License plates of offending vehicles and street maps may also need to be noted.
Armor plates: Your tactical vest is little more than a front-facing backpack if it isn’t packed with armored plates. BulletSafe offers lightweight IIIA bulletproof panels for stopping pistol rounds up to .44 magnum as well as rigid, heavy duty Level IV plates capable of defeating rifle fire up to .30-06 AP. Regardless of which you choose, know that BulletSafe’s materials are NIJ certified, guaranteeing high quality protection.
]]>Currently, there are several firearms which use the AK-47’s 7.62x39mm round. While the most famous of these is the AK-47 itself, this Soviet round is also found in certain variants of the CZ 805 BREN, IWI Galil ACE, SKS, Robinson Armament XCR, and even AR platform rifles. If a particular vest can stop a round from a Galil, it’ll stop a round from an AK-47 just as well.
The appended “x39” to the AK-47’s ammo designation is important to distinguish it from the 7.62x51mm NATO and the 7.62x54mm Russian rounds. Some sites erroneously state that the AK-47 shoots full-sized rifle cartridges like the 7.62x51mm NATO when in fact, the Soviet rifle uses 7.62x39mm Soviet ammo.
When it comes to the issue of protection, not every type of body armor is guaranteed to stop the 7.62x39. For example, the Level IIA and IIIA soft armor vests typically used by personal protection officers and police are normally only rated for pistol rounds, vulnerable to anything larger than a .44 magnum.
For example, in 2022, a Las Vegas metropolitan police officer was killed while investigating a domestic violence incident. The suspect was using an AK pistol chambered in 7.62x39mm, which defeated his body armor and tragically ended his life.
In the same way, the US military’s flak jacket – a Vietnam era relic that might pass as modern body armor in the developing world – was never meant to protect soldiers against direct enemy fire. This 10-pound vest, twice as heavy as a modern IIIA vest, could not even stop large caliber pistol rounds which modern soft armor can do with ease. Accurate fire from even a poorly maintained SKS would kill a Vietnam-era soldier in full kit.
An extremely unsafe test of a bulletproof plate against an AK-47.
Only Level III and Level IV plates can stop rifle rounds of any kind. These plates are made of rigid materials like steel or ceramic materials blended with aramid fibers and bonded with resin. The resulting material is a hard but lightweight plate capable of defeating intermediate rifle rounds at Level III such as the 5.56x45mm, 7.62x39, and 7.62x51mm NATO, while Level IV plates are rated for larger caliber rounds such as the .30-06 AP, also known in the military as the M80.
No longer issued flak vests, modern US military personnel are equipped with IBA and IOTV armor. These modern protective vests are built to be used together with Level III and Level IV plates, meaning they are resistant to most enemy small arms calibers .30-06 and below.
Sergeant Joseph Morrissey, who deployed with the 82nd Airborne to Afghanistan in 2012, was on the receiving end of a five-round burst of AK-47 fire delivered from only 30 yards away. He was back on patron in just 48 hours, since his IBA was outfitted with life-saving plates of rigid armor.
BulletSafe sells both soft IIIA vests for pistol caliber threat as well as top of the line Level IV plates for the highest levels of small arms protection.
]]>Bulletproof protection levels are determined by the National Institute of Justice, which subjects vests to rigorous testing to determine their resistance. While any company can claim to make bulletproof materials, the NIJ will determine if the user will still be alive after being shot, by measuring the amount of back face deformation. A “dent” in a vest is acceptable, but too much deformation will punch deep into a victim’s chest cavity to the point of death. Just because a bullet is stopped does not mean the vest is a life saver.
In the world of bulletproof vests, the NIJ classifies armor according to type, beginning with Level IIA at the bare lowest bulletproof rating and ending with Level IV at its maximum strength. Here at BulletSafe, we don’t bother with the lighter Level IIA vests, which are rated to only stop small and medium caliber bullets like 9mm and .40 S&W. Our most popular product, the VP3, is rated to stop Level IIIA threats, while our Tactical Plate Carriers come with Level IV plates for maximum protection.
Level IIIA products like the VP3 are rated to stop most pistol caliber threats ranging from .22LR all the way up to .44 magnum, while Level IV products such as the plates in the BulletSafe Tactical Plate Carrier are hard armor capable of stopping rifle rounds from .223/5.56x45mm to .30-06 AP.
Now, there may be some confusion about Level IIIA and Level III. While both seem similar because of their nomenclature, the two armor types could not be more different. Level III armor, despite its name, is the more powerful of the two. Level III armor is much like Level IV both in terms of its ability to defeat rifle fire and its construction as a hard armor plate, meant to be worn as part of a plate carrier system.
Level IIIA, on the other hand, is almost always soft lightweight armor meant to stop pistol rounds. In some cases, helmets such as the MICH, ACH, and PASGT are rated at a IIIA level, but just like IIIA vests, they are not meant to resist rifle fire.
IIIA vests are usually used by law enforcement professionals, as 9mm and other pistol rounds are a more common threat than large caliber rifle rounds on the streets of a bad town. Level IIIA vests also weigh less than the heavy Level III SAPI plates used by United States military personnel in modern IOTV armor. Since our service personnel in tan and green face more considerable threats than the men and women in blue, they are expected to have better protection. The “bad guy” weapon of choice around the world is the AK-47, which would punch straight through a civilian cop’s IIIA vest, while a Level III plate would stop both the AK’s 7.62x39mm or a full sized 7.62x51mm round from an Iranian G3. Level IV armor, also found in military use as ESAPI armor, is rated to stop all rifle fire up to and including the .30-06 AP round, a large, hard-hitting round famous for being used in the .30 caliber M1919 machine gun and M1 Garand from World War 2.
What bulletproof topics would you like to read about in the future? Tell us in the comments below!
]]>Homemade bulletproof armor is typically unwieldly, ugly, and of questionable effectiveness. Usually created by people with a mix of ingenuity, desperation, insanity, and a great amount of faith, homemade bulletproof vests should never be relied on if there are professional-grade products readily available.
The definition of “bulletproof”
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines “bulletproof” as “impenetrable to bullets,” but fails to mention that there is some nuance to this term. A vest capable of withstanding a direct hit with a .22LR will not be able to survive being hit by a .50 BMG. When it comes to bulletproof materials, composition matters.
Bulletproof armor comes in four general levels defined by the National Institute of Justice or NIJ. With Level IIA (handgun protection up to .40 S&W) at the low end and Level IV (large caliber rifle protection up to .30-06 AP) at the highest level, NIJ certified armor undergoes rigorous testing to determine its safety. Homemade armor, obviously, is not held to the same standards. Some of it could even fall apart after vigorous jumping before it even gets hit by the first bullet, just like…
Egyptian Mosireen Soda Can Armor
Mosireen (Arabic for “Insistent”) is a volunteer activist group formed during the Egyptian Revolt of 2011. Dedicated to the dissemination of truth and exposing the horrors and violence perpetrated by their oppressive government, the group has frequently found itself on the receiving end of violent crackdowns by Egypt’s National Security Agency.
In 2013, a thousand protesters were gunned down near the Rabaa al-Adawiya mosque in Cairo to end a peaceful sit-in. Unfortunately, in a nation where the people have no weapons to fight back, anti-government protesters have had to rely on jury-rigged homemade solutions for their own protection, such as this “bulletproof” vest made from soda cans and glue.
With materials easily obtainable from local hardware stores and restaurants, anyone can make the Mosireen soda can vest by gluing together 6-10 sheets of aluminum and duct taping them to an undershirt.
Mosireen Soda Can Armor
The question is, of course, if it’ll actually stop bullets. According to Mosireen, the answer is maybe… sometimes… and only at distances of 8 yards or greater. The Mosireen vest is primarily designed to stop birdshot and nonlethal rounds, which wouldn’t even meet Level IIA standards on the NIJ scale. Unfortunately for Mosireen protesters, Egyptian security forces frequently pack AK-47s and sidearms along with their 12 gauges so the practicality of this armor is questionable at best.
Clint Emerson’s Book Armor
In contrast to the Egyptians, former Navy SEAL Clint Emerson created something with substantially more survivability that can be made with a fraction of the materials and the effort. Made of nothing but copies of his moderately thick “100 Deadly Skills” books, ceramic pool tiles, and duct tape, Emerson’s makeshift armor is surprisingly effective against 9mm rounds, but shouldn’t be relied on to stop anything heavier.
By making a double-layered ceramic tile sandwich between two books and duct tape, Emerson created armor that can assembled in a hurry or in an emergency situation by anyone with access to common household items. Even without the ceramic tiles, the books can be moderately effective at stopping smaller calibers like .22LR and 9mm at long ranges. Ceramic tiles or not, it should still not be trusted to stop anything beyond small caliber pistol rounds.
704 Tactical’s Ceramic Tile Armor
The YouTuber 704 Tactical took the pool tile armor concept and made it slightly more professional-looking. His $6 DIY armor made out of three layers of pool tiles, 0.3 inches worth of copy paper, and a layer of duct tape, this DIY plate weighs 8.5lbs and is strong enough to stop 9mm rounds and 12ga buckshot.
However, the armor comes with an unfortunate caveat. In 704 Tactical’s own words, “don’t rely on it, you’ll definitely die.” While some companies rely on ceramic plates for their bulletproof materials, professionally-made armor is always augmented with some form of ballistic fiber, and copy paper just doesn’t provide the same level of protection.
Trojan Ballistics Armor
Troy Hurtubise's Trojan Armor
While the “Trojan” looks semi-professional, it’s actually the brainchild of one man. Troy Hurtubise, the Canadian inventor of the bear suit, was famous for testing his homemade heavy armor while wearing it himself. The aforementioned bear suit, for example, was hit by a 300lb log.
Around the time of the War in Iraq, Mr. Hurtubise grew concerned about IED attacks on Canadian soldiers, so he put his efforts into creating a new suit rated to stop bullets and shrapnel. He described his Trojan Ballistics Armor as the “first ballistic, full exoskeleton body suit of armor.” The full body armor was capable of stopping 9mm, .357 Magnum, and 12ga buckshot at close range. Hurtubise even made the bold claim it could stop a round from an elephant gun (loosely defined as any large caliber centerfire chambered in .400 or greater) but no evidence was found to prove this. The suit was never tested against IEDs.
Based on the modifications he made to the suit, Hurtubise probably intended to create a real-life Iron Man suit for special operations use. Weighing a mere 50lbs, the suit was equipped with magnetic holsters, helmet-mounted headlights, a solar-powered air conditioning system, a recording device, a pepper spray capsule, and a compartment for emergency morphine and salt.
While the product seemed top notch on paper, Hurtubise’s marketing for government contracts was less so. In 2010, his research and development drove him to bankruptcy and later divorce. Tragically, Hurtubise died in a freak highway accident in 2018 when his car collided with a gasoline truck which resulted in a fiery explosion. He was not wearing his armor at the time.
Hurtubise was confident that its bullet-resistant foam, a material of his own design, would be able to stop even the largest calibers of ammo, and he proved it to be at least Level IIIA resistant, but sadly the suit’s true capabilities may never truly be tested.
BulletSafe
BulletSafe VP3 vest
Unlike these other examples of bulletproof armor, BulletSafe vests and plates are NIJ tested and approved. The VP3 vest is affordable, durable, and lightweight Level IIIA armor capable of stopping rounds up to Level IIIA, and BulletSafe Level IV plates have been shown to be capable of defeating .30-06 armor piercing ammunition.
If you decide you need bulletproof protection at home, there’s no need to improvise. BulletSafe’s vests are sold at just $299.99 and are worn by security and law enforcement professionals all over the world.
]]>Knowing this, people who want to buy a bulletproof vest and use it prefer if they could wear it in public, and the only way to do so without getting funny looks would be to conceal it. Now, it’s important to know that not all kinds of armor can be concealed. One cannot simply throw on a poncho over an IOTV like Clint Eastwood and go to a mall.
Armor carrying heavy Level IV ballistic plates cannot typically be concealed. Tactical vests and plate carriers are typically meant to be worn over the body, which is why they have MOLLE webbing for external attachments like first aid kits, magazine pouches, and other gear.
For everyday wear that doesn’t make people call 911 on you, consider a IIIA vest. Worn under baggy clothing like dress shirts, sports coats, or Hawaiian shirts, IIIA vests are light, foldable, and resistant to most pistol caliber rounds up to and including the powerful .44 magnum.
In the military world, Level IIIA vests in the form of the PASGT system were used by ordinary infantrymen from the Invasion of Grenada in 1983 all the way up to the first years of the Global War on Terror. Meant to stop shrapnel from grenades, Level IIIA armor is also worn by vehicle crews, who can be hurt by fragments of metal that fly off the interior walls of a vehicle when it takes enemy fire.
Level IIIA vests are also worn by Secret Service agents under their suits, as well as police and SWAT teams, who value the vest for its light weight and flexibility. These qualities make it great for everyday wear, as opposed to the modern Level III and IV plates which are stronger but rigid.
Even if Level IIIA armor is lighter and softer, it still adds some bulk to your body, so you won’t be able to show off your figure anymore. T-shirts are to be worn under the body to prevent direct contact with your skin, as exposure to moisture like your sweat can degrade the ballistic fibers over time.
The vest itself should never be “low cut” like a tank top. It should always protect everything between your collar bone and your navel. If you’re a person with a little bit of extra love around your waistline, this doesn’t change. Even if you have extra fat dangling under your vest, it truly does not matter. Your vest is meant to protect your vitals like your heart and your lungs, not your love handles.
As a general rule, buy your bulletproof vest in the same size as you would your regular clothing. Any clothing meant to be worn over it should be one size larger, or otherwise clothing that’s loose like a hoodie. Here, fat people have an advantage because they already look large, and any added bulk won’t be as noticeable as it would be on a person with a skinny frame.
BulletSafe offers its VP3 – an NIJ certified Level IIIA soft armor vest – in all sizes from extra small to 4XL, ensuring that it’ll fit on people of all shapes and sizes. With its adjustable straps, breathable material, and $299.99 price tag the VP3 vest is quite possibly the most practical and affordable vest on the market today. There is no reason to pay more for the same level of protection, which is why you should consider BulletSafe for your personal protection needs.
]]>Retired SAS operator Christian Craighead, who was in the country training Kenyan counter-terrorist units, was on break at the time. Craighead heard the gunfire erupt and rushed to his vehicle, where he retrieved his kit, consisting of his Canadian C2 rifle, a sidearm, and his plate carrier. After spending mere seconds gearing up, he ran towards the sound of gunfire. With the help of local police forces, the attackers were subdued. Craighead became a legend in the firearms community almost overnight.
If you are reading this from the United States, the likelihood of you being involved in a mass shooting is substantially higher than it would be in Kenya. While it would generally not be a good idea to storm into a building to subdue a shooter (first responders might mistake you for the bad guy), it would be a good idea to add a plate carrier to your vehicle EDC kit.
Jacob Albarado, the hero of the Robb Elementary shooting in Uvalde, famously had to borrow his barber’s shotgun and helped with the evacuation but did not go into the school because of his lack of gear.
“At one point, I was there at the door fixing to go in, but once again I didn't have any of my gear. It wouldn't have been a smart move for me. All those guys had their gear and stuff so like I said, I pulled back."
To be fair to Albarado, this wasn’t cowardice at all. Through no fault of his own, he found himself unprepared. Realistically, who imagines they’ll ever be in a situation where they need to fight for their lives or the lives of their loved ones? However, in the crazy, dangerous world we live in, it’s becoming more and more likely, and it’s important to be prepared.
You never know when the next riot, natural disaster, terrorist attack, mass shooting, or other life-threatening circumstance might happen, so if you choose to throw a vest in your back seat, know that it may be there for a very long time. For long-term storage, soft armor vests are not the best. Prolonged exposure to humidity and ultraviolet light can cause degradation over the long run, so when it comes to vehicle storage, Level III or IV plates are the better option.
BulletSafe’s Level IV ballistic plates area made of durable alumina-oxide ceramic, which does not degrade over time like its soft armor counterpart. In addition, Level IV plates are stronger than soft armor, capable of defeating rifle fire from AR-15s and AK-47s as well as a single .30-06 round.
While we hope the worst case scenarios never come to pass, a bulletproof vest in the car would be beneficial in several scenarios, such as:
Working High-Risk Jobs. Armed security personnel and asset protection units put their lives on the line every day. It would be good for company vehicles to have vests in the back seat in case of worst case scenarios or if visitors might need them.
Living in High-Crime Areas. If you live in a particularly bad area known for frequent gang wars and fall asleep to the sound of gunshots every weekend, it might be a good idea to put a vest in your car. Depending on how bad the crime is where you live, you might even want to consider mounting it on the back of your seat. Mounts like the vehicle seat back plate carrier hanger from Grey Man Tactical work perfectly for this.
Active Shooter Situations. As previously mentioned, active shooters are becoming more common in the United States. You don’t want to compromise on your safety, and a Level IV vest is an incredible asset whether you’re escaping from a shooting or if you’re going in to help others.
Natural Disasters. In the aftermath of a natural disaster such as a hurricane or earthquake, there may be an increased risk of looting and violence. Carrying a bulletproof vest in your car can help protect you in case of an attack during these chaotic situations.
Traditional plate carriers, unlike soft vests, are usually equipped with MOLLE webbing. This means that aside from serving as armor, vehicle plate carriers can also serve as light “bug out survival vests.”
Aside from ammo, your vest can also carry an individual first aid kit, a fire starter, and probably a small pouch where you can keep an esbit stove and a life straw. This kit should serve as something that can keep you alive if you happen to run out of gas in the middle of Notown, USA and you need to get help, but you shouldn’t have so much gear that you’ll be over-encumbered.
It's important to note that carrying a bulletproof vest is not a guarantee of safety and should be done in conjunction with other safety measures such as avoiding dangerous situations, being aware of your surroundings, and calling law enforcement if you feel threatened.
]]>For the everyday commuter, the BulletSafe bulletproof backpack panel is the size of a 10x14 inch notebook and at 17 ounces, weighs just as much. Deceptively soft and pliable, this lightweight bulletproof panel is NIJ Certified to Level IIIA, making it capable of stopping a wide variety of handgun calibers up to and including the legendary .44 magnum.
Statistically, the handgun was the most used firearm in crimes across the United States.
In a 2021 study conducted by the FBI, 62% of the total firearms used in crimes were handguns, while 3.6% were rifles, and another 3.6% were automatic weapons/machine guns.
A separate 2021 study by the Office of the Attorney General revealed that the 9mm has been the caliber of choice for criminals since the late 1990s due to its abundance and low cost. Out of the sample of firearms used in crimes which were examined by the Bureau of Forensic Services for the study, 90.3% were handguns, and 46 of those were chambered in 9mm, with the second most common caliber being the .40 Smith and Wesson. Thankfully, a Level IIIA plate like the BulletSafe bulletproof backpack panel is more than capable of defeating a 9mm even in close quarters.
Another advantage of buying a $99.97 bulletproof backpack panel is cost. Other companies might charge as much as $899 for a complete backpack system, but an insert, especially one as light at the BulletSafe bulletproof backpack panel, can be placed in the laptop panel of any conventional backpack without any need for modification.
As the old adage goes, it is better to have and not need than to need and not have. Investing in a BulletSafe bulletproof backpack panel is also an investment in your peace of mind.
]]>For starters, Kevlar is actually a registered trademark of the Dupont company, who originally used the lightweight but highly durable material as a replacement for steel in racing tires. Kevlar itself is a blend of a tough but light material called aramid that is unique to Dupont. Other companies produce aramid fibers and armor but cannot legally use the Kevlar brand name.
In contrast, the armored ceramic plates are made of various materials such as steel, ceramics, or most commonly, ultra-high-molecular-weight-polyethylene also known as UHMWPE. While hard armor plates can be made of Kevlar, UHMWPE provides some advantages Kevlar lacks.
When the United States military first started issuing Kevlar body armor en masse to its troops, it came in the form of the PASGT system in the 1990s. This revolutionary body system replaced the aging flak jacket used in the Vietnam War, which relied on ballistic nylon and was never meant to survive a direct impact from even small pistol calibers. The PASGT system, on the other hand, was built with lightweight, flexible Kevlar. The new armor could stop 9mm rounds but would only slow down a round if hit by a larger rifle bullet, which would still penetrate.
Despite the fact it could defeat 9mm, the PASGT was meant to only protect against fragmentation threats. For rifle rounds, the Army needed something sturdier. Beginning in 1998, full production of a new, exciting vest came underway. The Interceptor Body Armor was made of Kevlar aramid fibers while protected from the front and back by solid plates. This new type of armor could take on direct hits from 7.62x39mm rounds and survive. This isn’t to say that the UHMWPE is the end-all be all in terms of personal armor, but it comes close.
STRENGTH
Bulletproof materials require immense strength, and tensile strength measured in pascals determines how much stress a material can take before it breaks under tension. While Kevlar is quite sturdy with its tensile strength of 3,620 megapascals (compared to the 400 megapascals of structural steel), it pales in comparison to UHMWPE, which has a tensile strength so high it can stretch from 4 to 10 gigapascals, making it the world’s strongest fiber.
Winner: UHMWPE
DURABILITY
Aramid fibers like those in a Kevlar vest decay faster than UHMWPE and are degraded by UV light. A Kevlar vest will usually begin to show signs of degradation after five years, after which time it would no longer be wise – or safe – to trust one’s life to the vest, while UHMWPE fibers in armor tend to persist for far longer, thanks to their unique molecular structure, which makes them resistant to water, moisture, chemicals, ultraviolet radiation and microorganisms.
Winner: UHMWPE
TEMPERATURE
When operating in a warm environment, UHMWPE’s light weight and high heat resistance make it a primary candidate for service in deserts and prairies. In contrast, aramid vests are excellent at retaining heat, which makes them more suitable for cold weather operations.
Winner: Varies
MOISTURE RETENTION
UHMWPE is waterproof, and unlike steel or any other metal, will not rust or corrode. This unique property is highly valued among both the Navy SEALs and shark divers, who use UHMWPE as part of their armor. Certain companies sell shark-proof wetsuits with UHMWPE sewn in with the nylon, while SEALs regularly utilize UHMWPE plate carriers during UDT operations. Aramid, on the other hand, can take on water. Wearing a bulletproof vest in a wet or humid environment can result in an aramid vest taking on as much as 3.5% of its own weight in water.
Winner: UHMWPE
If someone wants something with a combination of the benefits of both fibers, they should look into BulletSafe vests. BulletSafe offers bulletproof vests made of a blend of Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene with a blend of aramid fibers, giving users a wide array of options from bulletproof backpacks to soft armor and hard plates. BulletSafe vests are NIJ certified, and the company is committed to providing affordable quality bulletproof products to any and all protection-minded individuals.
]]>US murder-homicide rates have skyrocketed in recent years (data from the World Bank)
In the top 5 most dangerous cities in the United States, the homicide rates are so bad that they’re comparable to the casualties suffered in some wars. To clarify: a war is a series of battles fought over a long period of time, usually several years. To have more deaths in a single city in peacetime truly says something about the quality of life there and city hall’s crime policies.
695 people were killed in Chicago in 2022, giving the city some of the highest homicide numbers in the United States. The murders are concentrated around the Englewood and West Chicago areas, with some shootings occurring near downtown tourist hot spots. The city is so violent that it’s earned the dark moniker “Chiraq.” Ironically, there were more dead Chicagoans in 2022 than dead Iraqis in 2021.
When the Russians invaded South Ossetia in 2008, conservative casualty estimates place the combined number of dead on both the Russian and Georgian sides at 659, including the casualties suffered by the various mercenaries and foreign volunteers who took up arms for either side.
The City of Brotherly Love is ironically one of the most dangerous cities in America, with 516 homicides in 2022. According to a report by the New York Times, 1,400 people had been shot by August of 2022, which is odd for a city which is trying its best to regulate its citizen’s guns. Violence is usually concentrated in North and West Philadelphia, so a lot of the city is safe for tourists, and local ride-shares will usually be knowledgeable enough to tell you which places are no-go zones. However, the gas stations and 7-11s throughout the city that are frequent targets of carjackings and muggings make it almost mandatory to carry a weapon for self-defense.
Philadelphia’s high homicide count is comparable to the total casualties suffered during the world’s shortest war: the Anglo-Zanzibar War. In 1896, the tiny Zanzibar Sultanate dared to stand up to the Royal Navy. In response, two British cruisers and three gunboats off the coast shelled until it surrendered. The entire affair lasted just 38 minutes and resulted in approximately 500 casualties.
Known for its large homeless population and violent crime, the City of Angels has never quite lived up to its name. With the majority of violent crime concentrated in the city center, Los Angeles reported 382 homicides in 2022. Some, like Captain Paul Vernon of the LAPD, believe this high homicide rate is due to the political hamstringing of the police force. The popular “defund the police” movement has led to some LAPD officers afraid to do their jobs, and there has been a decreased police presence in high crime areas. The lack of badges has emboldened criminals, leading some criminals to do “walk up” shootings in the middle of broad daylight, knowing that police will be reluctant to stop them for fear of being labeled as “racist” and losing their jobs.
Meanwhile, down in Mozambique, the country’s Marxist government was challenged over the results of the 2014 general elections, in which they narrowly defeated the conservative, anti-communist RENAMO party. Conservative forces waged an on-and-off guerrilla war on the communist government. This war, which lasted from 2014 – 2019, resulting in approximately 327 casualties, less than the number of people killed in Los Angeles every year.
The media is rife with stories about Detroit, making it out to be an urban hellhole worse than even its fictional counterpart in the Robocop movies. The city now synonymous with gun violence was once the auto manufacturing capital of the world. When production shifted overseas, the city which once had two million people now has a population of 640,000 and shrinking. Thanks to the lack of jobs and high crime rate (caused by the lack of jobs), Detroit will continue to be a city in decline until its leadership does something to crawl out of its economic crisis. 309 people were killed in Detroit 2022, mostly as a result of gang wars and violent crimes.
Compare that number to number of people killed in the entirety of the Second Afar Insurgency. This relatively unknown 28-year-long ethnic conflict lasted from 1995 until 2018 in an area the size of New Mexico. During that entire time period, battlefield casualties are estimated to be anywhere from 275 to 569 in total, miniscule compared to the combined 8,796 murdered people in Detroit during those same years.
The Home of the Blues also happens to breed some of the toughest people in America. Shootings and murders are a regular occurrence in the city, and many children fall asleep to the soothing tones of police sirens and gunshots. The city’s old money and lack of upward mobility has been a death sentence for the large minority population struggling to pull itself out of poverty. As a result, its high crime claimed the lives of 302 people in 2022, and it shows no signs of stopping. Locals know where not to stay after sunset, and Memphis police has lowered its entry standards, no longer required college credits, military service, or previous law enforcement experience, and merely asked for two years work experience – any work experience. Memphis police has gotten so desperate that it has considered hiring officers with criminal backgrounds.
It may be hard to believe, but Memphis has suffered more deaths than the entire Ghost Dance War. This event, burned into the collective memory of the Lakota people and all Native Americans, lasted from 1890 – 1891. What started as a native religious revival erupted into violence as US troops attempted to confiscate Native weapons and land. The entire war was over in about a month, with approximately 300 natives killed.
If you live in any of these cities, it would be in your best interests to consider affordable personal protection, especially if you work in the security field. The most common round used in gun-related crime is the 9mm, and BulletSafe’s comfortable, concealable NIJ-Certified VP3 vests are available for only $299.99. Capable of defeating most handgun calibers up to .44 Magnum. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.
]]>This article was previously published on gunlove.com and has been updated as of January 24,2023.
In the early weeks of January 2023, three separate mass shootings rocked the state of California within 44 hours, but those are only the ones that received media attention. In reality, there have already been 47 mass shootings this year, and it's only January.
As of this writing, there have been 5,182 mass shootings in the United States since 2013, with 549 in 2022 alone. More than five thousand people have been killed in a mass shooting, while only about 200 people have died from lightning strikes within the same time frame. According to the mass shooting tracker website, an average of 1.96 shootings happen every day. In these uncertain times, when it’s literally more likely to die from a mass shooting than from a lightning strike, it should be the responsibility of the average American to prepare for the worst.
The very fact tragedies like this happen so often should be a wakeup call to everyone. Nothing stops a bad guy with a gun better than a good guy with a gun, but the problem seems to be there aren’t enough good guys willing to carry guns.
To survive a mass shooting and save the lives of the innocents around you, a firearm by your side is the best insurance policy. Based on a study of the police response times of the ten most populated US cities, it takes the police an average of 8.6 minutes to arrive at the scene of an active shooting, while it takes mere seconds for a well-trained shooter to draw his or her weapon and neutralize a target. A mass shooter is usually either inexperienced, drug-addled, overconfident or all three. A well-trained good guy with adrenaline pumping through his veins will be able to end a threat well before a police officer arrives on the scene. Within the first five minutes of a mass shooting, everyone in the area will run for cover. It usually takes five minutes for someone to remember to call 911, and by the time first responders arrive, the incident will have been well over.
If, for some reason, you find yourself at an establishment which does not allow you to bring in your firearm, and in the event you choose to follow the establishment’s guidelines (unlike Elisjsha Dicken, hero of the Greenwood Park Mall shooting), you may find yourself at a distinct disadvantage in case a raging lunatic bursts through the doors and starts blasting away.
Fortunately, the FBI has a detailed step-by-step plan to survive such an event. Simply called “Run. Hide. Fight,” this plan is designed to help the average unarmed bystander avoid the carnage of a mass shooting.
Run
If you are completely outmatched in a fight, the most obvious thing to do is run. There is no shame in running if the alternative is death. You don’t necessarily need to find marked escape exits – these are designed for fires and natural disasters. The threat here is mobile and can go wherever you go. The nearest exit is always your best option. Windows that exit to street level (for example, those in a classroom) are probably a quicker escape path than the main exit.
Begin running as soon as you hear gunfire and feel threatened. Do not attempt to reason with the shooter. Yelling at him to stop will do nothing but make yourself a target. Criminals are rarely – if ever – deterred by words alone, and attempting to negotiate with a man who sees you as nothing but a target is a bad idea. Do not wait for everyone around you to react. If you are carrying anything, drop it. You will run faster if you are unhindered by a shopping bag or a backpack. Help others escape if possible. If you end up making a wrong turn into a room without a backdoor, do your best to barricade it.
Hide
A mass shooter can shoot at locks and hinges, so it may be best to rely on improvised barricades. The old “chair under the doorknob” barricade only works if the door opens outwards and not towards you. It’s important to note that the backrest should be between the door and the door frame. Piling heavy objects up against a door can be unsuccessful against a door that opens inwards unless the heavy objects form a solid block to the other end of the room.
It should also go without saying that you should remain as quiet as possible. Phones should be completely silent – vibration should be off. If possible, hide behind objects you were not able to use for your barricade. Your hiding place should be out of the shooter’s view and provide sufficient protection just in case the mass shooter gets through.
That said, not many types of household furniture will stop a bullet. A 9mm hollow point round will go through more than a dozen layers of dry wall, which means a shooter blasting away at the poor unfortunates in the room next to yours could still injure you. If you think the steel door between you and the shooter is enough to stop a bullet, know that most steel doors are less than an inch thick and will likely be penetrated. An office cubicle offers concealment rather than cover, and just like walls, bullets will pass through multiple cubicles before stopping. Turning over a table to use as cover like they do in Hollywood will not provide protection from even smaller calibers like 9mm rounds. However, a .223 or 5.56x45mm round can be stopped by a cinder block or a sturdy wall made of cement or brick. It’s a good practice to lie as flat as you can on the ground, since the shooter will most likely be shooting from a standing position and his shots will land above the waist level.
Once you believe your room is secure enough, turn off all the lights and hope the shooter will believe the room is empty.
Fight
When all else fails and you have nowhere to go, be prepared to fight.
If your room is completely dark, you have the advantage. Set up an ambush position in the blind spot of an inward facing door to attack the mass shooter as soon as he steps into the room. If you have others with you, attack him from multiple directions. He can only shoot at one target before someone else gets to him.
If your state allows it, try your best to always carry a blade with you. They aren’t typically limited in the same ways firearms are, and usually prove very handy in everyday situations, even more so in a life-or-death scenario like this. In a pinch, you can also use a fire extinguisher to distract the mass shooter by both spraying him with it or hitting him over the head.
If you do have a knife, keep in mind the mass shooter may be armored. Target your assailant’s hands so he drops his weapon; alternatively go for the eyes to blind, the groin to incapacitate or the throat to kill. This is a mass shooter – no sitting jury would ever rule against you. Fight dirty, your life is on the line. The human body is not limited to punching and kicking. Choke or bite your assailant if you can.
When the chaos is over and the police arrive, be sure to put your hands up and follow all instructions. It can still go very badly for you if you don’t. As a historical example: in 1976 during Operation Entebbe, Israeli commandos rescued their countrymen being held hostage by Ugandan dictator Idi Amin. The commandos entered the room where the hostages were being held and ordered everyone to get down. One hostage, Jean-Jacques Mimouni, leapt for joy when he saw his rescuers and was immediately shot dead, having been mistaken for a hostage taker.
With this in mind, keep your hands visible at all times, discard any weapons you might have with you, and know that help for the injured is on the way. Alert the authorities to any casualties or people who you know are missing from your group and follow their instructions to evacuate from the active crime scene.
Now that you know what to do in the event of a mass shooting in your area, hopefully you will be better prepared for it should it ever happen to you. However, the best policy, in this author’s opinion, is to be armed and ready to return fire at a moment’s notice.
For additional resources, visit the FBI’s active shooter page here.
]]>For example, if you need a vest that can protect you from high-powered rifles, then you'll need to opt for a plate carrier with Level III or Level IV ballistic plates, made from multiple layers of bulletproof material. On the other hand, if you're looking for something to protect you in a situation where potential adversaries will be using smaller caliber handguns, then a Level IIA or Level IIIA soft vest, worn over or under clothing will be the right choice.
Statistically, most crimes in the United States will be committed with handguns. In 2020, the ATF ran data analysis on 389,276 firearms recovered from crimes across the United States. Contrary to anti-gun rhetoric, which preaches that the 5.56x45mm rounds from the AR15 are the most dangerous and prolific rounds in the United States, the 9mm is by far the most common round found at crime scenes in America. In all the states except Montana and Puerto Rico (where criminals favor the .22 and the .40 caliber respectively) the 9mm is the undisputed king of gun crime. The 5.56x45 doesn’t even make it into the top 5, and the .223 ranks 13th.
According to the ATF’s numbers, a Level IIA soft vest should be enough to stop the most common threats, since it protects against both 9mm and .40 S&W, the two most popular handguns used in crimes. The IIIA, a slightly heavier option, offers protection from larger rounds such as the .45 ACP, .357 Sig, .357 Mag and .44 Mag. Of these calibers, the .45 and .357 still rank relatively high on the ATF’s list, so it’s a good idea for anyone to spend the extra money to get the security of more robust armor.
If you’re concerned about possibly taking rifle fire, Level III plates are rated to stop the AR15’s 5.56x45 rounds as well as 7.62x39 rounds from an AK-47 or .308 rounds from a high caliber bolt action rifle or AR-10. This type of armor is impossible to conceal under a shirt, and is usually worn by military personnel or law enforcement. Compared to the 145,815 9mm weapons traced by the ATF, the 9,032 5.56x45mm weapons in their database seem decidedly low, despite the AR15 being the most popular rifle in the United States. The .308 appears even less, with only 1,545 firearms traced.
For those who want only the highest level of protection, Level IV plates are available. These heavy duty armor plates are capable of defeating .30-06 Armor-Piercing Rounds. This large caliber round is only slightly less common than its .308 counterpart on the ATF’s list of traced calibers. There were only 1,587 weapons chambered in .30-06. This is most likely because .30-06 rounds are expensive, averaging at around $1.30 on the lower end.
Criminal elements are most likely to use what’s available, concealable, and cheap. For the best in concealable bulletproof, protection, BulletSafe recommends the VP3 bulletproof vest. This NIJ-Certified IIIA armor is designed to be lightweight and comfortable while being practical and effective. Worn over or under a shirt, it can also be upgraded with Level III or Level IV plates in its Velcro pockets to protect against greater threats. The VP3 is ideal for law enforcement, security and other professionals who seek reliable and comfortable protection.
]]>
There are two important maxims one should remember when kitting out. The first and most important is to equip yourself with what you will need for your particular mission; the second being that “lighter is faster.” Unless you graduated from BUD/S school you aren’t a Navy SEAL, and there’s absolutely no reason for you to copy a SEAL loadout because you aren’t going for long missions deep in hostile enemy territory.
Most customers who purchase the BulletSafe Tactical Plate Carrier Kit are either civilian security or law enforcement with the remainder of customers falling into the category of “protection-minded citizens.”
For security professionals who will be doing most of their work standing, a lightweight loadout is preferred. There’s no need to carry six extra magazines, since any potential encounter will be swift and limited to a single individual or a very small group. If you happen to work in a private security firm, be the judge of how many magazines you need to carry, but keep in mind that the majority of altercations with a single dangerous individual end after only a few rounds are fired from the weapon of a well-trained security officer. In the same vein, security officers should also carry a body camera on their vests in case police need evidence following a shooting.
The primary purpose of carrying things on a vest is for immediate access. However, you will still need to run to a threat if you are needed there, and you don’t want to be winded when you reach said threat. Either do cardio or carry less weight on your vests. For security personnel, any job-essential equipment that can be carried on a duty belt such as a first aid kit, handcuffs, or nonlethal weapons like pepper spray should be carried as such so as not to restrict your upper body movement, which you will need for aiming.
It's also important to remember that you may find yourself in a position where you have to get into awkward positions such as going prone or kneeling in a firefight. Extra equipment on your chest that hampers your ability to put your knees in the proper support position, or equipment which does not allow you to go prone will be detrimental to you.
With all this being said, it is up to you, the user, to find the right attachments for your vest suited to the tactical scenario you believe you will find yourself in.
]]>Now, Sergeant Helus was wearing a bulletproof vest at the time, but it had been expired for 14 years. Not only that, but it was a soft armor vest that was never meant to take rifle fire. In the after action report of the incident, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department recognized the need to track the expiration dates of their body armor and notify personnel when necessary. They also saw that officers needed additional protection to meet rifle threats in the form of a tactical vest which could be worn over their soft armor. Because of this unfortunate tragedy, every deputy in Ventura County now has access to plate carriers stored away in their vehicles reserved for extremely dangerous situations.
Now, if you’re a civilian, what does this mean to you? First, you should know most soft armor is not guaranteed to protect you against rifle fire, and every precaution should be taken to ensure you have adequate threat protection. Second, body armor expires, and it would behoove the responsible body armor owner to keep track of his vest’s expiration date. Think of body armor like a fire extinguisher. The little red tank is always there, sitting quietly in its glass case in the corner. You hope you’ll never have to use it, but if your house catches fire fifteen years after you buy it, and you reach for your fire extinguisher only to watch in horror as it fizzles out, this is not exactly the most ideal situation. In the same way, body armor usually lasts about five years, which is the same length of time as BulletSafe’s warranty. You’ll think it’ll work until it won’t, and the moment it stops working is when you’ll need it most.
With this in mind, it is genuinely unwise to buy used bulletproof vests from places like police and military surplus stores. If a seller states the vest is older than five years and you intend to use it for something other than a costume, do not buy the vest. Some people buy used vests for economic reasons, but BulletSafe remains committed to selling body armor at affordable costs. As of this writing, BulletSafe vests are still only $299.97, a much more affordable price than some individuals are charging for police surplus.
Not only do bulletproof vests expire, but they can also be damaged outside of regular wear and tear. Generally, it’s best to store your vest in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. The aramid fibers used to construct BulletSafe vests loosen with heat and humidity. Vests expire rapidly with daily use, but in some situations, the vest should be replaced immediately.
For example, if your bulletproof vest is ever immersed in water for an extended period of time, say, in a washing machine, the cohesion of the aramid fibers is jeopardized. While NIJ standard 0101.06 requires a bulletproof vest to be put into water for 30 minutes before testing, this does not mean that a wet NIJ certified vest should be relied upon for safety. A paper published in the Textile Research Journal concluded that aramid fabric loses its tensile strength after being sprayed with water for only three minutes. In the test, a 9x18mm Makarov round was fired at both wet and dry vests. 20 wet layers of aramid fiber failed to stop the round from punching through, but 14 dry layers of the same material were sufficient enough to prevent penetration.
Lastly, you should also consider disposing of your vest after it’s been compromised in any way. If a vest is shot, stabbed, or otherwise broken, this does not mean the vest is still safe. Any damage from shots or stabs in the armor play havoc on the resistance of the ballistic fibers by unraveling them. Once a vest is shot or otherwise damaged it should immediately be replaced.
If you’re a BulletSafe customer and one of our vests happened to save your life, we will gladly replace the vest free of charge as long as a police report is provided.
Did you know bulletproof vests could expire? How have you been taking care of your own armor? Tell us in the comments below.
]]>Like firearms, the sale, possession, and wearing of body armor is regulated by the states. 18 USC 931 regulates body armor at the federal level for violent felons. States can further restrict it, but may simply recognize the federal law and place no further restrictions. While BulletSafe maintains the opinion that everyone has the right to protection, some states associate the use of body armor with mass shooters and don’t want to give criminals an edge.
Because of this association, it is a federal crime for felons to purchase or wear body armor, and some states restrict the wearing of body armor completely. The following list provides a comprehensive look at the regulations governing body armor in all 50 states.
Alabama – This state defers to federal law regarding the sale or possession of body armor.
Alaska – This state defers to federal law regarding the sale or possession of body armor.
Arizona – Any adult may purchase and wear body armor. However, a person wearing body armor while committing a felony is guilty of a class 4 felony.
Arkansas – Any adult may purchase and wear body armor. However, convicted felons who attempt to possess body armor are guilty of a Class A misdemeanor.
California – Any adult may purchase and wear body armor. However, convicted felons who attempt to purchase or possess body armor are guilty of a felony. Felons may apply for exceptions if their employment, livelihood, or safety depends on their ability to use body armor.
Colorado – This state defers to federal law regarding the sale or possession of body armor.
Connecticut – Any adult may purchase and wear body armor. However, convicted felons or juvenile delinquents who attempt to possess body armor are guilty of a Class A misdemeanor. Body armor in this state must be sold in person.
Delaware – Any adult may purchase and wear body armor. However, a person wearing body armor while committing a felony is guilty of a class B felony.
Florida – Any adult may purchase and wear body armor. However, a person wearing body armor while committing a felony is guilty of a third degree felony.
Georgia – Any adult may purchase and wear body armor. However, a person wearing body armor while committing a felony is guilty of a felony. Subsequent violators are punished by life imprisonment.
Hawaii – Any adult may purchase and wear body armor except for felons, persons addicted to drugs or alcohol, the mentally ill, and juvenile delinquents. Any person prohibited from using body armor may request an exemption from the court if body armor is required for the person’s safety or livelihood and if it can be proven the person will use the body armor in a safe and lawful manner. Anyone in violation of this law is guilty of a class C felony.
Idaho – This state defers to federal law regarding the sale or possession of body armor.
Illinois – Any adult may purchase and wear body armor. However, those who commit any crimes while wearing body armor are guilty of a Class A misdemeanor. Subsequent offenses are classified as Class 4 felonies.
Indiana – Any adult may purchase and wear body armor. However, a person wearing body armor while committing a felony is guilty of a Level 6 felony.
Iowa – Any adult may purchase and wear body armor. However, convicted felons who attempt to possess body armor are guilty of a class D felony.
Kansas – This state defers to federal law regarding the sale or possession of body armor.
Kentucky – Any person who was found guilty of a felony offense or theft of a motor vehicle and who was wearing body armor and was armed with a deadly weapon at the time of the offense shall not be granted probation, shock probation, parole, conditional discharge, or any other form of early release.
Louisiana – Any adult may purchase and wear body armor everywhere except on school property. Felons who attempt to possess body armor will be fined and/or imprisoned for not more than two years.
Maine – This state defers to federal law regarding the sale or possession of body armor.
Maryland – Any adult may purchase and wear body armor. However, a person wearing body armor while committing a violent crime is guilty of a misdemeanor.
Massachusetts – Any adult may purchase and wear body. However, felons who attempt to possess body armor will be fined and/or imprisoned for not more than two years.
Michigan – Any adult may purchase and wear body. However, felons who attempt to possess body armor are guilty of a felony. Felons may attempt to request for a written exemption in case their livelihoods require them to wear body armor, but those felons who wear body armor at work without a written exemption are guilty of a misdemeanor.
Minnesota – Any adult may purchase and wear body. However, felons who attempt to possess body armor are guilty of a felony.
Mississippi – This state defers to federal law regarding the sale or possession of body armor.
Missouri – This state defers to federal law regarding the sale or possession of body armor.
Montana – This state defers to federal law regarding the sale or possession of body armor.
Nebraska – This state defers to federal law regarding the sale or possession of body armor.
Nevada – Any adult may purchase and wear body. However, felons who attempt to possess body armor are guilty of a category B felony.
New Hampshire – Any adult may purchase and wear body armor. A person is guilty of a class B felony if he commits or attempts to commit any felony while using or wearing body armor.
New Jersey – The sale and/or possession of body armor is illegal unless a person’s employment requires the use of body armor. Unlawful purchase of body armor is classified as a disorderly persons offense for first offenders. A subsequent offense is classified as a crime of the fourth degree.
New Mexico – Any adult may purchase and wear body armor. However, a person wearing body armor while committing a felony is guilty of a third degree felony.
New York – The purchase, sale, and/or possession of body armor is illegal unless a person is engaged or employed in certain eligible professions, including police officers, peace officers, military service members and certain others. Unlawful wearing of body armor is a class E felony.
North Carolina – This state defers to federal law regarding the sale or possession of body armor.
North Dakota – This state defers to federal law regarding the sale or possession of body armor.
Ohio – Any adult may purchase and wear body armor. However, a person wearing body armor while committing a felony is guilty of an unclassified felony.
Oklahoma – Any adult may purchase and wear body armor. However, a person wearing body armor while committing a felony is guilty of a felony.
Oregon – Any adult may purchase and wear body armor. However, a convicted felon attempting to possess body armor is guilty of a Class C felony.
Pennsylvania – Any adult may purchase and wear body armor. However, a person wearing body armor while committing a felony is guilty of a third degree felony.
Rhode Island – Any adult may purchase and wear body armor. However, a convicted felon attempting to possess body armor is guilty of a felony.
South Carolina– Any adult may purchase and wear body armor. However, a person wearing body armor while committing a violent crime is guilty of a felony.
South Dakota – This state defers to federal law regarding the sale or possession of body armor.
Tennessee – Any adult may purchase and wear body armor. However, a person wearing body armor while committing a felony is guilty of a Class E felony.
Texas – Any adult may purchase and wear body armor. However, a convicted felon who attempts to possess metal or body armor is convicted of a third degree felony.
Utah – Any adult may purchase and wear body armor. However, a person wearing body armor while committing a felony is guilty of a felony.
Vermont – This state defers to federal law regarding the sale or possession of body armor.
Virginia Any adult may purchase and wear body armor. However, a person wearing body armor while committing a felony is guilty of a Class 4 felony.
Washington – This state defers to federal law regarding the sale or possession of body armor.
West Virginia – Any adult may purchase and wear body armor. However, a person wearing body armor while committing a felony is guilty of a felony.
Wisconsin – Any adult except for felons or the mentally ill can purchase and possess body armor. Violation of this law is a class E felony.
Wyoming – This state defers to federal law regarding the sale or possession of body armor.
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The short answer is “it varies.” There is more than one type of bulletproof vest on the market, and in the case of this particular type of product, choosing the most expensive armor may not always be the best choice. A businessman who wants to wear his armor concealed under his suit does not want to come to work every day wearing a tactical vest, and a mother sending her child to school does not want to stuff her child into an IOTV.
The different types of bulletproof armor exist for a reason. If you’re a first time armor buyer, with the help of this short guide, hopefully you’ll be able to make an informed decision.
IOTV - $1,500.00
Only available to government agents or law enforcement personnel, the IOTV or “Improved Outer Tactical Vest” is the United States Army’s third generation body armor. Capable of accepting numerous attachments such as deltoid and groin protectors, this current iteration of Uncle Sam’s infantry body armor when combined with the appropriate E-SAPI plates is rated to stop .30-06 armor piercing ammo, equivalent to NIJ Level IV armor in the civilian world.
The armor is large and bulky, but its weight is evenly distributed through the user’s body through a belly strap. In emergencies, when a medic needs access to injuries, a ripcord on the front of the vest can be pulled for easy disassembly.
Tactical Plate Carrier - $4,000 to $449.97
The plate carrier by itself is not armor, but an external vest that accepts ballistic plates. The plates themselves are made of ceramic and can be rated at either Level III or Level IV. Level III rated plates are designed to stop up to 7.62x51 M80 FMJ (.308 Win), while a Level IV plate can survive a hit from a .30-06 armor piercing round. Plate carriers at higher price points are usually more expensive due to brand names and addons to the plate carrier like extra pockets or accessories but would have the same protective power as plate carriers on the lower scale.
Enter the BulletSafe Tactical Plate Carrier Kit. This complete kit offers everything you need and nothing you don’t, keeping the price point low, and consists of a plate carrier and Level IV inserts, and is just as capable of stopping high caliber armor piercing rounds as the Army’s IOTV, for only $449.97.
Plate carriers are lighter than IOTVs and are the vests often worn by tactical teams and special operations forces. Airsoft players may buy the carriers without the inserts, while civilians who want to use plate carriers for tactical practice or weight training may choose which plates best suit their needs.
Soft Armor Body Vest - $3,000 to $299.99
Plate carriers and tactical vests may seem threatening to civilians with their numerous pockets and mag pouches. Knowing this, some security companies and law enforcement agencies may sometimes require their personnel to wear something less formidable looking.
For this, most employ a soft vest like BulletSafe's VP3. This bulletproof armor, rated to Level IIIA, is designed to stop pistol rounds up to .44 Magnum. A soft vest requires no inserts like our previous examples. Instead, the entire vest is constructed with bulletproof fibers. This special lightweight construction provides the wearer with flexibility that is absent in any armor requiring plates.
Some soft body armor may be worn under clothing, perfect for those who require something more covert for their self-defense needs. However, since soft armor cannot stop rifle rounds, they are never worn in high risk environments where potential threats are armed with rifles, such as conflict zones.
The $2,000 price point of ordinary soft armor is part of why BulletSafe was founded in the first place. Founder and president Tom Nardone thought it was unfair for security personnel and law enforcement to have to pay that amount of money for a product he could manufacture for far cheaper. To this day, BulletSafe still manufactures soft bulletproof vests with NIJ certification for $299.99, and is perhaps the best price point for value of any body armor brand on the market.
]]>Ever since men realized small objects hurled at high speeds could put other men in the grave, there has been a constant arms race between the projectiles and protection. Every advancement in weapons was matched with an equally ingenious development in armor.
Ancient Scale Armor
The concept of armor was introduced to Bronze Age peoples like the Egyptians when they discovered ore could be smelted and formed into sheets. Like the scales of a fish, small discs of copper or bronze could be laid over each other to create scale armor. While this armor was effective against swords and arrows, only the Pharaoh and certain members of his court could afford them. The grunts of the Egyptian army frequently charged into battle wearing nothing more than a belt, a loincloth and a cowhide shield. While the sight of a thousand screaming, shirtless men was no doubt a terrifying sight, it looked more like advanced target practice for enemy archers.
The Greeks – Linothorax and the Muscle Cuirass
Centuries later, the Greeks, those inventors of democracy, invented a true people’s armor: the linothorax. It was made with strips of linen and cotton layered over one another in the same way modern Kevlar is manufactured. Arrows and sword strikes meant little to the linothorax, but a determined spear thrust in the belly would usually be enough to end the warrior wearing it.
Unfortunately, Greek warfare at the time was a pushing contest with spears, and only bronze cuirasses, called thorax heroikon (heroic chests) were spear-proof. They were worn mostly by rich officers and nobles, since back in those days, everyone had to buy their own gear, and only people with coin could afford the sheets of bronze and artistry involved in making the bronze armor. Otherwise, poorer warriors received their armor as a hand-me-down.
Muscle cuirasses were shaped to resemble an idealized male torso, complete with rippling abs and nipples. This was essentially the armored dress uniform of the ancient world. If there were a party or parade in Ancient Sparta, you could be sure both the Spartan kings (yes, they had two men reigning at the same time) and all their officers would be in attendance wearing their glistening bronze armor.
Knightly armor of the Middle Ages
From the fall of Rome to about the 13th century, chainmail was the armor of the day. It was cheap, easy to smith, and provided great protection against all types of attacks. For hundreds of years, the charge of mailed warriors on horseback or on foot was the bane of all who stood before them. However, everything changed once the crossbow came to Europe.
In contrast to longbow archers, who would require years of training to be proficient, a crossbowman could master his weapon in the span of only a few weeks. Also, the crossbow bolt could defeat armor. This meant a rag-tag band of angry peasants equipped with crossbows could, in theory, revolt against their rulers and turn an army of knights into pincushions with a volley of crossbow bolts (hint hint).
The ruling governments of the time did not like this very much and Pope Urban II passed legislation to ban the weapon in 1096 (hint hint). Under pain of excommunication, “murderous” crossbows were not to be used against Christian enemies… which in essence meant shooting a Muslim or a heathen was fair game. On a related note, the same council also forbade jousting tournaments. Needless to say, jousting continued until the 16th century, and so did crossbow archery.
Since no one conformed to the pope’s “assault weapon ban”, the armorers of Europe were forced to develop plate armor. Built of steel or iron, it was shaped for practicality rather than aesthetics. The metal abs and nipples of the long-dead muscle cuirass were replaced with a sloped metal breastplate. New close helmets covered the whole head. Pauldrons, greaves and sabatons enclosed the warrior in a suit of steel, making him nigh invincible.
The new plate armor, equipped on both man and horse, turned the knight into a living tank. Nothing short of pure blunt force trauma delivered at close range would be able to take him down. This armor enabled knights to live long and storied careers full of exploits worthy of song – until the gun was invented.
Bulletproof Samurai
Hundreds of years prior to the development of anime, Japan was a land of mystery to the rest of the world. An extremely insular country, Japan had mostly developed on its own for the greater part of history. Then the Portuguese introduced them to the musket. Contrary to popular belief, the samurai quickly adapted firearms, creating a whole new martial art dedicated to the new weapon: hōjutsu, the way of the gun. It wasn’t as simple as “point and shoot.” The new martial art had its own stances, rituals, and exercises just like aikido, karate, and kenjutsu.
Following the “Great Sword Hunt” of Lord Hideyoshi in 1590, weapons were confiscated from all the peasants. Hideyoshi wanted to keep his people under control, and only the samurai class were allowed to carry anything larger than a carving knife. The same rule applied to guns. The rank and file foot soldiers who made up the bulk of Japanese feudal armies fell into a lower subclass of samurai called ashigaru, many of whom were armed with muskets alongside spears and bows.
Before the musket came to Japan, a samurai’s armor made him just as formidable as a European knight. After they discovered bullets could go through iron and leather plates, a new type of armor had to be invented. The tameshi gusoku was a type of steel armor strong enough to stop subsonic musket rounds. Blacksmiths who made these armor pieces took design cues from European armor and shot them before delivery to “prove” they could stop bullets (hence the word “bullet proof”).
If a samurai wasn’t felled by an arrow to the neck, he would be struck by a hail of bullets fired by lowborn ashigaru. The ruling classes were probably glad these common soldiers with the killing firepower of the gods were forbidden from rising out of their caste to become something greater.
Renaissance Munition Armor
Meanwhile, on the other side of the world, the nations of Europe were facing a similar problem. During the Peasants’ War of 1524 and several wars thereafter, European nobility learned the hard way that lowborn peasants with guns and a few days of training could take down armored noblemen who had trained for war since birth. In another leg of the arms race, the constantly warring armies of Europe had to develop a type of body armor which could be both bulletproof and mass produced.
During the late Middle Ages, armor was tailor-made for the individual knight. Due to its customization, a knight’s armor cost more than many peasants would make in a year. To get around this, blacksmiths of later centuries created half-armors with no arm or leg pieces which were essentially one-size-fits-most, which made them affordable enough for wealthier peasants. These new munitions grade plate cuirasses were usually made with thick steel and “bullet proofed” in the same way a samurai’s armor was. It was during this era when plate armor began its long decline. The noble on horseback shed his sabatons in favor of boots and breeches, and the knight in shining armor was transformed into the pistol-armed black rider, so named for the color of his armor. Where a knight would run down an opponent with a lance, the black rider would charge and fire his two pistols at close range before drawing his sword to hack away at his terrified enemies. The era of chivalry was truly over.
However, with mass production of armor came quality control issues. Many breastplates were never “proofed” at all and simply issued to soldiers without anyone knowing if they could even do their job. Heading into battle wearing one of these breastplates would be a coin toss when the lead started flying.
The First World War – armor returns
Guns continued to dominate the arms race into the early 20th century. The musket gave way to bolt-action rifles as technology advanced. It took time for commanders to realize that marching lines of infantry headlong into an enemy equipped with bolt-action rifles was just throwing their lives away. This era of history saw the grandiose scale and order of line battles give way to trench warfare.
Tacticians and scientists on both sides of the conflict tried to come up with various ways to break the stalemate in the trenches. Among the ideas proposed on both sides was a return to armor. These suits of armor always looked ridiculous and were usually very unwieldly. Many soldiers today complain about having to low crawl in full battle rattle, however, a select few unlucky Americans in WW1 had to wear the Brewster armor: 40 pounds of solid steel.
Dr. Otis Brewster, the armor’s inventor, was confident enough in his creation that he volunteered to test it himself by receiving a burst of fire from a .303 machine gun. Brewster lived and said that the force of being hit was “only about one tenth the shock which he experienced when struck by a sledgehammer.”
While Brewster armor could stop most contemporary ammunition, it exposed the wearer’s arms and legs to enhance mobility, which was a real problem. Whoever wore the steel suit could neither turn his head nor shoot in the prone position. The blocky helmet also made proper cheek weld and aiming impossible. There was no armor on the sides or back, since Dr. Brewster estimated that the extra plates would make the armor weigh a total of 110 pounds, more than what would be reasonably expected for any soldier to carry.
World War Two and the Flak Vest
Body armor for infantry was largely abandoned in World War I for being too heavy and impractical. However, when it came time for the second World War, heavy steel body armor saw limited use with the Soviets and the Japanese. The Russians issued 8 pound steel breastplates to their engineers, which were good enough to stop German submachine gun rounds. The Japanese made suits of small steel plates sewn into pockets on the front of the vest, which also had a special Shinto bulletproof charm on the inside (This did not always work.)
Meanwhile, the United States Air Force began to experiment with body armor for its pilots and bomber crews. The armor did not need to be as heavy as the infantry armor of World War I, which could take direct fire from a large caliber rifle, but it still needed to protect the wearer from shrapnel from anti-aircraft guns.
Working in tandem with the British, the Air Force developed the flak vest: a cotton apron that housed steel plates sown into multi-layered nylon. The new vest proved to be quite effective, reducing pilot and crew fatalities from shrapnel immensely. Sometimes, pilots would sit on their flak vests, since the majority of anti-aircraft fire would pierce the plane from below.
The Flak Vest evolves
Thanks to its distinguished performance in World War 2, the flak jacket continued to serve in Korea and Vietnam where it once again found service on the ground with the infantry. The Army’s flak vest was a bearable 8 pounds, but was primarily made of nylon and cotton without the small steel plates the Air Force used in its vest.
Like its Air Force counterpart, this lightweight flak vest could only stop shrapnel. If it received a direct hit from a 7.62x39mm – the primary round used by the enemy – the wearer would die. A push was made to integrate some sort of plate system in the armor to give it more protection. This resulted in the creation of Variable Body Armor.
The ceramic plates managed to stop an AK round, but it made the armor weigh 20 pounds. In the tropical humidity of Vietnam, this was a nightmare for many troops. According to Vietnam vet and author Stephen E. Atkins, no one wanted to wear the new vest because it was more likely that a soldier wearing the armor would die from heat exhaustion rather than an enemy bullet. Even in modern armies of countries that traditionally operate in humid tropical environments like Burma and the Philippines, heavy armor is often ditched in favor of lightweight protection.
Modern armor
In the mid-60s, the DuPont chemical company anticipated a gas shortage. They predicted that Americans would want lighter tires with a similar strength to what they were used to. Enter chemist Stephanie Kwolek. After various experiments, Kwolek was able to create a light, heat resistant material five times stronger than steel: Kevlar.
She didn’t understand the fiber’s protective applications at the time, but Richard Davis soon did. Richard was a pizza delivery guy from Detroit who kept getting shot at while delivering pizzas. After his pizzeria was burned down, Davis decided to change the lives of those who were in constant danger like himself, like the police.
Davis contacted DuPont and bought some of their new lightweight tire material. Fashioning it into a vest, he tried selling it to police. To prove his product worked, he shot himself in the chest over 200 times over the course of several demonstrations.
Eventually, the Department of Defense caught on to the idea and began issuing Kevlar helmets and body armor to replace their aging steel helmets and flak vests. These newer evolutions of military armor weighed 30 pounds and included bulletproof plates that were, at long last, capable of defeating enemy rifle fire while being light enough to move around in.
Countless thousands of lives have been saved by Kevlar vests all over the world. The helmet, while not designed to take a direct hit from a 7.62x39mm, can still save soldiers from grazing hits. These life-saving products are available to the average American citizen but are usually prohibitively expensive.
BulletSafe
Tom Nardone, an engineer with experience working for Sikorsky and Ford, noticed that bulletproof vests made of Kevlar cost $1,000. In the same way that early armor was inaccessible to commoners, Nardone thought this was way too much for the average consumer, so he sought to reduce the price to a more realistic $300 by using of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene ballistic inserts instead of Kevlar. This low price point was especially valuable to security guards, smaller police departments, sheriff’s departments or other small agencies, who usually had to buy their own gear and couldn’t normally afford a thousand dollar vest.
In 2013, BulletSafe was launched, selling vests made of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene for the low price point of only $299.97. Soon, BulletSafe received NIJ certifications for Level IV plates. The company continues to be a maverick in the world of bulletproof protection to this day and will continue to hold to its commitment to provide effective and affordable bulletproof protection.
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