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Throughout history, there have been remarkable accounts of books stepping in to save lives during the unlikeliest of circumstances. Whether it’s a treasured Bible or a practical survival guide, these incidents spark curiosity and highlight the fascinating relationship between physics, ballistics, and fate.

Historical Anecdotes

Charles W. Merrill, 1863
During the Civil War, Union soldier Charles W. Merrill was struck by a musket ball in battle. Fortunately, a New Testament tucked in his breast pocket absorbed the impact, sparing him a potentially fatal wound. At the time, musket balls were large but relatively slow-moving, making such a miraculous save possible.

Leonard Knight, World War I
British soldier Leonard Knight experienced a similar miracle decades later during World War I. A German bullet struck the Bible he carried in his breast pocket, stopping just 50 pages from the end and saving his life.

Leandro Araujo de Oliveira, 2024
In a more recent case, Navy officer Leandro Araujo de Oliveira was attacked by muggers in Rio de Janeiro. One of the bullets fired at him was stopped by a naval survival guide tucked into his backpack, proving once again that the right book in the right place can change everything.

While these stories are captivating, the science behind them reveals the key factors that determine whether a book can stop a bullet. A bullet loses velocity over longer ranges, reducing its kinetic energy and thus its penetrating power.

For example, spherical lead musket balls used in the Civil War were large but relatively slow and ineffective beyond 300 yards. Compare this to a modern AR-15, which has a maximum effective range of 600 yards. Similarly, the angle of impact plays a significant role, as a glancing shot is less likely to penetrate than a direct hit. The thickness of the book is another critical factor; thicker books provide more material to slow down or stop a bullet, and the compact density of the paper also contributes to its effectiveness. Lastly, the caliber and velocity of the round make a significant difference.

In Leonard Knight's case, it is hypothesized that the 7.92×57mm Mauser round fired at his Bible had lost sufficient velocity due to the range of the shot, allowing the dense layers of paper to absorb and dissipate its remaining energy, ultimately stopping the bullet. Similarly, in the case of Leandro Araujo de Oliveira, the round that struck him, which was probably a 9mm, was fired at a relatively short range but struck the survival guide at an angle, forcing the round to pass through multiple layers of dense paper. This angular impact likely slowed the bullet enough for the material to dissipate its energy and prevent penetration.

Additionally, the round used in Oliveira's case was most likely a standard full metal jacket (FMJ) round, which is relatively common and cost-effective. Had the attackers used higher-pressure ammunition, such as +P rounds, the increased velocity and energy could have resulted in significantly more penetration, reducing the likelihood of the survival guide stopping the bullet. Larger, slower-moving rounds, like those from older firearms, are easier to stop compared to modern high-velocity ammunition.

BulletSafe’s Book Experiment

To test the limits of books as ballistic protection, BulletSafe conducted an experiment using a .50 AE Desert Eagle to shoot through seven thick books. Here’s the lineup:

• The Ultimate Weight Solution by Dr. Phil McGraw: 0.9 inches thick
• Going Rogue by Sarah Palin: 1.38 inches
• Not Afraid of Life by Bristol Palin: 0.93 inches
• Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert: 0.84 inches
• Winning the Insurance Game by Ralph Nader and Wesley Smith: 1.25 inches
• See I Told You So by Rush Limbaugh: 1.25 inches
• Healthy Aging by Dr. Andrew Weil: 0.95 inches

When stacked together, the books created a barrier approximately 7.5 inches thick. The .50 AE round fired at close range was ultimately stopped in the middle of Dr. Weil’s book. The results demonstrated that while books can stop bullets, it depends heavily on circumstances like distance, angle, and caliber.

A Word of Caution

While these stories and tests are fascinating, relying on books for protection is not a viable strategy. The chances of a book being in the right place at the right time—and thick enough to stop the bullet—are slim. For dependable personal protection, trust gear that’s designed for the job.

If you want reliable ballistic protection, the BulletSafe VP4 Concealable Vest is the solution you can count on. With its advanced Level IIIA soft armor and compatibility with hard plates, the VP4 is engineered to handle the threats you might face. Unlike a stack of books, the VP4 vest provides consistent, NIJ-tested protection without leaving anything to chance.

Books may have saved lives in extraordinary circumstances, but when it comes to truly reliable protection, there’s no substitute for proper body armor. Equip yourself with the BulletSafe VP4 Concealable Vest today, and face the unexpected with confidence.

To shop BulletSafe bulletproof vests, click here.

When it comes to personal protection, you need gear that works as hard as you do. That’s why the BulletSafe VP4 Advanced Vest is designed for maximum versatility—offering trusted protection against handguns and the ability to upgrade for threats from high-velocity rifles. Whether you’re on patrol, heading to the range, or preparing for high-risk situations, the VP4 is your reliable, all-in-one solution.

Flexible Protection, Built for Any Scenario

The VP4 Advanced Vest comes standard with Level IIIA protection, meaning it stops some of the most powerful handgun threats, like .44 Magnum and .357 SIG.

But what happens when the stakes are higher? The VP4 makes it easy to adapt. It’s equipped with front and back plate pockets designed to hold Level III or Level IV rifle-rated ceramic or steel plates. Adding these plates allows the vest to stop high-powered rifle rounds like 7.62x39mm and 5.56x45mm NATO.

Upgrading is simple:

1. If your vest is small or medium, remove the vest’s soft Level IIIA armor for a better fit.
2. Insert hard rifle-rated plates into the designated pockets.
3. Reinstall the soft armor for added blunt force protection.

This modular system gives you the flexibility to respond to changing threats without compromising on comfort or mobility.

The VP4 Advanced Vest is designed to perform wherever you need it. Its abrasion-resistant PVC-coated polyester carrier makes it durable enough for the toughest environments, while its lightweight build keeps you comfortable on the job.

Level IIIA vs. Level III: What’s the Difference?

Understanding the difference between NIJ ratings helps you make the best choice for your safety:

• Level IIIA: Protects against handgun threats, including .44 Magnum, .357 SIG, and smaller calibers. It’s lightweight and flexible, making it perfect for close-range defense and everyday wear.
• Level III: Provides rifle-rated protection, stopping rounds like 7.62x39mm FMJ and 5.56x45mm NATO. This level of protection requires adding hard plates to your vest, giving you defense against high-velocity impacts.

With the VP4, you don’t have to choose one over the other. Its ability to combine Level IIIA soft armor with Level III hard plates gives you the ultimate balance of versatility and safety.

Trusted Protection at a Price You Can Afford

At BulletSafe, we believe safety shouldn’t come at a high cost. That’s why the VP4 Advanced Vest is built with the same commitment to affordability and reliability that’s made us a trusted name in body armor. Whether you’re upgrading for high-risk scenarios or need dependable everyday protection, the VP4 adapts to your needs without breaking the bank.

To buy the VP4 Advanced Vest, click here.

There’s a lot of confusion out there about how full metal jacket (FMJ) rounds work against body armor. Some think FMJ bullets of any kind can punch right through armor, but that’s not exactly true. The truth is, whether a bullet gets through body armor has more to do with the power and speed of the round than just the bullet’s design. To understand why, you need to understand what FMJ rounds were actually made for, how body armor is rated, and why rifle rounds pack a much bigger punch.

History and Purpose of FMJ rounds

FMJ bullets have been around since the late 1800s. Back then, shooters had problems with lead bullets fouling their barrels, which made their guns less accurate and harder to clean. The solution was to cover the soft lead cores of those bullets with a harder metal jacket—hence the name full metal jacket. These reduced fouling and made guns more accurate.

FMJ rounds also became the standard military cartridge after the Hague Convention of 1899, which banned expanding bullets in war. These rounds kept their shape better when they hit a target, making them reliable for deep penetration. However, FMJ rounds were never made to beat body armor.

How Does the NIJ Rate Body Armor?

Body armor gets tested and rated by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) to see what kinds of bullets it can stop. Here’s a quick look at the levels:

• Level IIA and II: (Older categories) Protect against common handgun rounds like 9mm FMJ and .40 S&W.
• Level IIIA: Stops higher-velocity handgun rounds, like .357 SIG and .44 Magnum.
• Level III: defeats rifle rounds up to 7.62x51mm NATO FMJ.
• Level IV: The toughest—can stop armor-piercing rifle rounds like .30-06 AP.

When it comes to handgun-rated armor (Level IIIA and below), rifle FMJ rounds are a real problem because they’re faster and hit harder. But even big handgun FMJ rounds, like the .44 Magnum, usually won’t get through Level IIIA armor.

Rifle Rounds

Rifle rounds pack substantially more energy than handgun rounds.

• A standard 9mm FMJ handgun round hits with about 350 foot-pounds of energy.
• A .44 Magnum FMJ handgun round punches out around 1,000 foot-pounds.
• A 5.56x45mm NATO rifle round? Over 1,200 foot-pounds.
• A 7.62x51mm NATO round? A massive 2,500+ foot-pounds.

That extra energy and speed make rifle bullets much more dangerous to body armor. In addition, rifle bullets are often more aerodynamic, so they cut through material better. That’s why soft armor isn’t enough to stop them.

What’s Best for Defensive Handgun Use?

If you’re carrying a handgun for defense, you want ammo that’ll stop the threat without going too far. Hollow-point bullets are the top choice for most folks because they expand on impact, dump their energy into the target, and don’t overpenetrate. FMJ rounds are great for practice because they’re cheap and reliable, but they’re not ideal for stopping a threat.

When it comes to body armor, BulletSafe’s VP4 Level IIIA vest is built to handle the most common handgun threats, including FMJ rounds. And if you’re worried about rifle rounds, you can always pair it with hard armor plates for extra protection.

Conclusion

The idea that FMJ bullets can punch through any body armor just isn’t true. Rifle FMJ rounds are a serious threat, but most handgun FMJ rounds—even powerful ones like .44 Magnum—get stopped cold by Level IIIA body armor. Knowing what your gear can handle and choosing the right ammo is key to staying safe and prepared.

At BulletSafe, we’re all about making sure you get the protection you need without breaking the bank. Our Level IIIA armor has your back against the most common handgun threats, so you can feel confident when it counts.

When you think of bulletproof vests, you might picture the security guards and law enforcement officers who keep our streets, schools, and events safe. And sure, they absolutely need protection. But let’s not forget: danger doesn’t discriminate.

If you’re a judge handing down unpopular sentences, a celebrity dodging obsessed fans, or a high-powered exec with metaphorical (and possibly literal) targets on your back, you might want to consider upgrading your wardrobe. Enter the BulletSafe VP4 Concealable Vest—because a piece of clothing that helps you stay alive can be the ultimate fashion statement.

For some people, protection looks like an entourage of highly trained security personnel. Private bodyguards, armored SUVs, a secret escape route mapped out to the nearest safe house—you know, the works. But what happens when security isn't fast enough to intercept danger? What if someone gets the drop on you? When you get shot unprepared, it’s all over.

Why the BulletSafe VP4?
The VP4 is a Level IIIA bulletproof vest, meaning it’s capable of stopping almost every handgun round out there, up to and including the mighty .44 Magnum, which was, at one time, the most powerful handgun cartridge in the world.

But here’s the best part: it’s concealable. Slip it on under your clothing, and no one will know you’re wearing armor. The vest is designed with a low-profile hook-and-loop fastener to reduce printing (which is what happens when an otherwise concealed vest outlines itself under your clothing). It's also lightweight and mobile, thanks to its ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene construction and modified shooter’s cut. What this all means is that it’s comfy, discreet, and makes you forget that you’re wearing armor at all.

Who Needs One?
Honestly, anyone who values safety should consider it. From VIPs to everyday folks who just want a little extra peace of mind, the VP4 is a smart investment, almost like life insurance you can wear.

Because let’s face it: while we all hope the worst never happens, being prepared is the best way to make sure it doesn’t. The BulletSafe VP4 Concealable Vest is your ticket to staying one step ahead of danger, without sacrificing comfort or conspicuousness.

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

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

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

Federal Restrictions on Body Armor Ownership

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

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

International Restrictions on Body Armor Ownership

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

Australia

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

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

Canada

Canadian regulations on body armor are primarily provincial:

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

United Kingdom

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

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

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

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

Obtaining Permits

For regions requiring permits, the process generally involves:

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

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

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

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

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

Why You Should Invest in Body Armor

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

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

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

To shop BulletSafe bulletproof vests, click here.