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BulletSafe, renowned for its high-quality body armor, has unveiled its latest innovation, the VP4 bulletproof vest. This new model surpasses its predecessor, the VP3, in every aspect, offering enhanced protection, comfort, and adaptability.

Uncompromising Protection

The VP4 retains the robust protection that BulletSafe is known for. Like the VP3, it is NIJ certified for Level IIIA, providing reliable defense against most small rimfire calibers up to large centerfire pistol ammunition, from .22LR up to .44 Magnum. This level of protection ensures that the wearer is safeguarded against a wide range of common threats.

Enhanced Fit and Comfort

One of the standout features of the VP4 is its improved fit and comfort. The vest comes with large hook and loop adjustment straps in two interchangeable sizes, allowing it to accommodate a broader range of body types comfortably. The expanded hook and loop surface area provides greater flexibility to adjust the fit, ensuring that users can tighten or loosen the vest as needed for optimal comfort and security.

Additionally, the VP4 boasts a lower profile for its hook and loop surfaces compared to the VP3, resulting in a sleeker and more streamlined appearance. This design enhancement not only improves the vest's aesthetic appeal but also reduces bulk, making it more comfortable to wear under clothing.

Advanced Mobility and Practicality

The VP4 body armor introduces a modified shooter’s cut, a significant upgrade from the VP3, designed to offer increased freedom of movement. This new cut allows users to move more naturally and comfortably, making the VP4 an ideal choice for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone needing a bulletproof vest that doesn't hinder mobility.

Moreover, the inclusion of elastic denim at the bottom of the vest helps support the weight of ballistic plates, which are often too heavy for standard soft armor vests. The elastic denim also minimizes chafing from duty belts or pistol belts made of hard materials or leather, enhancing overall comfort during extended wear.

Versatility for Enhanced Protection

The VP3 body armor was celebrated for its versatility, with pockets designed to hold Level IV plates capable of stopping rifle rounds up to .30-06. The VP4 continues this tradition but with improved fitment, thanks to its new shooter’s cut. This feature ensures that the plates fit better and move with the wearer, offering enhanced protection without sacrificing mobility.

Made in the USA

BulletSafe takes pride in manufacturing its armor in the United States, ensuring the highest standards of quality and reliability. The VP4 is no exception, embodying the craftsmanship and attention to detail that BulletSafe customers have come to expect.

In summary, the BulletSafe VP4 bulletproof vest represents a significant advancement over the VP3. With its superior fit, enhanced comfort, increased mobility, and uncompromising protection, the VP4 is an excellent choice for anyone seeking reliable and versatile body armor. Whether you are in law enforcement, security, or simply looking for personal protection, the VP4 delivers outstanding performance to meet your needs.

On the morning of February 28, 1997, Los Angeles witnessed one of the most harrowing and transformative events in modern law enforcement history. Larry Phillips Jr. and Emil Mătăsăreanu, after meticulously planning and preparing for months, stormed the Bank of America branch at 6600 Laurel Canyon Boulevard in North Hollywood. What ensued was a 44-minute gun battle that would change police tactics, equipment, and training forever.

Phillips and Mătăsăreanu were not your average bank robbers. They entered the bank armed with a cache of rifles, including illegally modified full-automatic weapons, and clad in homemade body armor, effectively preparing them for an extended firefight with the police.

The Outgunned Officers

At that time, most police officers were equipped with 9mm or .38 Special pistols, with some carrying 12-gauge shotguns. These weapons proved woefully ineffective. Additionally, the officers found themselves outmatched not just in firepower but also in range, as their handguns and shotguns were insufficient for longer-distance engagements. Approximately 10 to 15 minutes into the shootout, an officer was heard on the LAPD police frequency warning others not to stop the getaway vehicle because "they've got automatic weapons, there's nothing we have that can stop them."

The robbers’ use of automatic weapons and their heavy armor left the police pinned down, unable to effectively counter the threat. In a desperate move, several officers commandeered AR-15-style rifles from a nearby gun store to stand a fighting chance against the assailants.

The Turning Point

As the shootout raged on, LA SWAT units armed with AR-15s arrived on the scene. Despite their advanced training and equipment, the SWAT officers faced a formidable challenge. Phillips and Mătăsăreanu's body armor covered all vital areas except their heads, and a steel plate in Mătăsăreanu's chest armor even protected him against 5.56x45mm rounds from the SWAT operators’ rifles.

Ultimately, Phillips succumbed to a self-inflicted gunshot wound followed by multiple shots from responding officers, after which police cuffed and secured his body, while Mătăsăreanu died from excessive blood loss after being shot 29 times in his unprotected legs. Thankfully, no one apart from the gunmen were killed.

The Aftermath and Its Impact

The North Hollywood Shootout exposed critical vulnerabilities in police preparedness and equipment. Before the shootout, only specialized SWAT units were typically armed with semi-automatic weapons like AR-15s. The encounter demonstrated that all officers needed access to more powerful firearms to effectively respond to such high-intensity situations.

In the wake of the shootout, police departments nationwide overhauled their armament policies. Many departments began equipping all officers with AR-15s, ensuring they could respond adequately to similar threats. Additionally, bulletproof vests became standard issue for officers, enhancing their protection during confrontations.

Today, the advancements in police body armor are significant. Departments across the country now utilize vests like those made by BulletSafe, which offer superior protection compared to the gear available in the 1990s. These modern vests are constructed from a blend of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene and aramid fibers, providing durable and effective protection that far exceeds the homemade armor worn by Phillips and Mătăsăreanu.

Legacy of the Shootout

The North Hollywood Shootout stands as a stark reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face and the need for continual advancement in their equipment and training. It sparked a nationwide re-evaluation of police preparedness, leading to significant improvements that have undoubtedly saved lives in subsequent years.

This pivotal moment in law enforcement history underscores the importance of being ready for the unexpected. The lessons learned from that day continue to shape policing strategies and ensure that officers are better equipped to protect themselves and the communities they serve.

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

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

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

Printing

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

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

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

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

Fitment

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

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

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

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

Protection Rating

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

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

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

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

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

NIJ Certified vs. NIJ Compliant

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

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

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

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

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

You May Still Get Hurt

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click here to browse BulletSafe’s selection of bulletproof vests

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

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

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

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

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

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

An American officer wearing the IOTV.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click here to buy the VP4