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When it comes to the protective capabilities of bulletproof vests, one of the most common questions is: Are they also stab-proof? The answer, quite simply, is that it depends. Just as bulletproof vests are rated by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) for their ability to stop various calibers of bullets, they are also rated for their resistance to stabs and punctures.

Understanding NIJ Ratings

In accordance with NIJ Standard 0115.01, to test stab resistance, a “guided drop assembly” must be used against the vest. This involves dropping a sharp, spike-like implement onto the vest from a height of 14 feet. The testing energy levels vary: 24 Joules and 36 Joules for commercial threats like kitchen knives, pocketknives, ice picks, and awls, and 43 Joules and 65 Joules for more improvised threats, such as blades and spikes that could be fashioned by inmates.

While many brands claim their vests are fully "stab-proof," not all have the NIJ certification to back it up. This distinction is crucial for those seeking maximum protection.

 BulletSafe's Stab Resistance

At BulletSafe, we value honesty and integrity. While have independently tested our vests to ensure that they are stab-resistant, though they have not undergone the NIJ's rigorous stab-proof testing. Our independent tests ensure that our vests can save lives in real-world scenarios involving blades or screwdrivers. This applies to our soft armor, such as the VP3 vest.

The Rigid Armor Difference

When considering rigid armor, like bulletproof plates made of ceramics or steel, these materials are inherently stab-proof due to their hardness. The physics behind it is simple: it's nearly impossible for even the strongest person with the sharpest blade to pierce through rigid armor. The ceramics used in our Level IV armor are exceptionally hard, and sharp knives, which are typically brittle, stand no chance.

The reason a knife can't penetrate hard plates is the same reason a strong swordsman can't cut through even mediocre steel armor. When a high-velocity projectile strikes a ceramic plate, the energy causes the ceramic to fracture and absorb the impact through a pattern of cracks. However, the average human simply cannot deliver a blow with the speed and force of a bullet.

When a knife is used to stab, the contact area is much larger compared to that of a bullet. This means the force exerted is spread over a larger area, reducing the pressure and making it insufficient to penetrate the ceramic. This, combined with the limitations of human muscle, makes most modern hard armor impervious to stabbing or slashing.

In summary, while soft armor may offer significant protection against stabs, only rigid plates can truly be considered stab-proof. Understanding these differences and NIJ ratings is essential for anyone seeking comprehensive protection. Whether facing bullets or blades, knowing your vest's capabilities can make all the difference.

To shop BulletSafe bulletproof vests, click here.

A bulletproof vest isn’t a magic invulnerable shield. If someone shoots you and the round hits your vest – you will live provided that you were shot with a round your vest was rated for. However, even though the bullet didn't get through, you'll still be left winded and in pain. That's because of something called backface deformation (BFD).

BFD Explained: The Armor Bends, You Don't (Ideally)

In the simplest terms, backface deformation is simply how much a bulletproof vest bulges inward when it's hit by a bullet. Imagine someone hitting a really tough piece of playdough – it won't break, but it will definitely deform (hence the term backface deformation). While the bullet will not penetrate the vest, the bullet's energy is still transferred to the person wearing the vest.

How BFD Affects Soft vs. Hard Armor

There are two main types of bulletproof vests: soft armor and hard armor.

The soft armor made by BulletSafe is typically made of a material called ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), an extremely resilient, flexible and lightweight fabric with a higher tensile strength than steel. NIJ Certified to withstand rounds up to .44 magnum, soft armor vests are bendable and are generally more comfortable to wear than their hard plate counterparts. The backface deformation in soft armor is much more violent than it is in hard plates because UHMWPE lacks the rigidity of a hard plate.

9-pellet 00 buckshot on a VP3. Credit: 1ShotTV

Hard armor uses ballistic plates made of materials like UHMWPE or ceramic. These plates are much stiffer and can stop higher-powered bullets. However, ceramic plates are heavy and bulky, and UHMWPE typically have less backface deformation than soft armor because of their rigidity. For a plate to pass NIJ standards, its backface deformation cannot exceed 44mm.

BFD and Injuries

Even though the vest stops the bullet, backface deformation can cause blunt force trauma. This is basically a fancy way of saying your body gets bruised or even cracked from the impact. Depending on the bullet's power and the vest's quality, BFD can range from a nasty bruise to serious injuries. According to the FBI, no one has ever been killed by excess backface deformation, however this does not mean death from BFD is impossible.

Minimizing BFD

Trauma pads are soft inserts made of ballistic material worn behind hard armor plates. They help absorb some of the remaining energy and reduce BFD. Placed behind bulletproof plates, some trauma pads are not typically bulletproof, but they are good at absorbing high impact energies and deflecting them away from the user. They are usually shaped like a rectangle to protect the wearer’s vital organs such as the lungs, heart, and abdomen. Unlike most trauma pads, a BulletSafe backpack panel can fulfill the same function as a trauma pad while also providing added ballistic protection. The backpack panel has the same rectangular shape as a trauma pad and can just as effectively disperse the energy of a round, minimizing backface deformation in the process.

Remember: to ensure maximum protection against backface deformation, consider investing in a trauma pad or a BulletSafe backpack panel. While a bulletproof vest will save your life regardless, a trauma pad can serve to prevent further injury.

To shop BulletSafe bulletproof armor, click here.

Measuring Your Backpack Panel for your Bag

Before purchasing a bulletproof backpack panel, it is essential to ensure it will fit your bag properly. The BulletSafe Bulletproof Backpack Panel measures 10 inches by 14 inches, making it versatile enough to fit into various bags, from school backpacks to briefcases. To measure your bag:

1. Empty the Bag: Remove all contents from your backpack or bag to get accurate measurements.
2. Measure the Interior: Use a tape measure to determine the length and width of the largest compartment. Ensure the measurements exceed 10x14 inches to accommodate the panel.
3. Check for Flexibility: The panel is flexible and only 0.29 inches thick, allowing it to fit snugly against the back panel of most bags without taking up much space.

Determine Material Type

When choosing a bulletproof panel, the material type is crucial. While steel plates offer high protection levels, they are heavy and cumbersome, especially for children and daily commuters. Instead, opt for materials used in the BulletSafe Bulletproof Backpack Panel:

• Lightweight and Flexible: Weighing just 17 ounces, the BulletSafe panel is made from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene with a blend of aramid fibers typically found in bulletproof vests. This makes it easy to carry and comfortable for everyday use.
• Non-Steel Composition: Unlike heavy steel plates, the materials in this panel allow for ease of movement and do not add significant weight to the bag, ensuring that children and adults can carry it effortlessly.

Determine NIJ threat level protection

The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) sets standards for ballistic resistance. The BulletSafe Bulletproof Backpack Panel provides NIJ Level IIIA protection. Understanding this level is crucial for your safety:

• Level IIIA Protection: This level means the panel can stop almost all handgun rounds, including powerful rounds like the .44 Magnum. It offers peace of mind against most common threats.
• Suitability: NIJ Level IIIA is ideal for school, work, and everyday carry scenarios where the most likely threats are from handguns.

Installation

Installing the bulletproof panel into your backpack is straightforward:

• Choose the Right Compartment: Select the compartment closest to your back. This positioning offers the most protection and keeps the panel secure.
• Insert the Panel: Slide the panel into the compartment, ensuring it lies flat against the back of the bag.
• Secure the Panel: If your bag has straps or pockets, use them to secure the panel in place to prevent shifting during movement.
• Test for Fit and Comfort: Wear the backpack to ensure the panel does not alter the comfort or fit of the bag. Make adjustments if necessary.

During a shooting:

In the unfortunate event of a shooting, having a bulletproof panel can provide a critical layer of protection. Here are steps to maximize your safety:

• Seek Cover: Immediately find a solid cover to protect yourself from gunfire.
• Position the Backpack: If you cannot find adequate cover, use your backpack with the panel as a shield. Or else, wear it over your chest so it acts as a front facing bulletproof vest.
• Stay Low and Move Strategically: Keep a low profile and move towards safety, using the backpack to cover your vital organs.
• Call for Help: As soon as it is safe to do so, call emergency services to report the situation and get assistance.

Investing in a bulletproof backpack panel like the BulletSafe Bulletproof Backpack Panel is a proactive step towards personal safety. Its lightweight, flexible, and durable design ensures it can be used daily without burdening the user. By measuring your bag correctly, understanding the material and protection level, and knowing how to install and use it effectively, you can enhance your safety and peace of mind in various scenarios.

To shop BulletSafe's line of bulletproof backpack panels and plates, click here.

As Americans, we look forward to celebrating the Fourth of July with fireworks, barbecues, and gatherings that honor our nation's independence. However, this festive day also brings an increase in certain dangers that can turn joyous occasions into tragedies. While fireworks are a traditional part of the celebration, the combination of alcohol, firearms, and large crowds creates a heightened risk for accidents and violence.

First responders are often inundated with emergency calls on July 4 and 5. Police departments report a surge in calls related to domestic disturbances, assaults, and shootings. Fire departments are stretched thin responding to firework-related fires. Emergency medical services are on high alert for injuries ranging from minor burns and cuts to life-threatening gunshot wounds and traumatic injuries from fireworks.

The Gun Violence Archive reports that July 4 is consistently the most dangerous day of the year in terms of gun violence. Since 2014, there have been 58 mass shootings on July 4, where a mass shooting is defined as a shooting resulting in four or more people being injured or killed. This alarming statistic underscores the heightened risk associated with this holiday. Firearms, often combined with alcohol consumption, significantly increase the likelihood of accidental discharges and intentional violence.

In 2023, for example, a six-year-old child was struck by a stray bullet that fell from the sky during Fourth of July celebrations in Southern Los Angeles. That same year, six individuals in an open-air coliseum in San Francisco were hit by stray celebratory gunfire, with some rounds reportedly coming from high-powered rifles. These incidents are stark reminders of the unpredictable and dangerous nature of celebratory gunfire.

Given these risks, wearing a bulletproof vest during Fourth of July festivities can be a prudent measure for personal safety, at least from stray bullets. A Level IIIA bulletproof vest, designed to stop pistol rounds up to .44 magnum, provides an added layer of protection against lower-velocity falling bullets, which are not uncommon during these celebrations. While this might seem like an extreme precaution to some, the data clearly supports the need for enhanced safety measures.

More than the risks posed by firearms, fireworks themselves are a significant hazard. In 2023, around 9,700 people were treated for firework-related injuries, with eight fatalities reported. Fireworks can cause severe burns, lacerations, and even loss of limbs. Moreover, they are a common cause of house fires, as they can ignite dry brush and spread to residential areas.

According to the Pew Research Center, July 4 and 5 see the highest number of emergency room admissions each year, with approximately 45,000 people seeking medical attention for injuries. This number far surpasses any other day of the year, highlighting the need for increased vigilance and precaution during these celebrations. The combination of fireworks, alcohol, and firearms contributes to this surge in injuries. Ensuring you have the proper protective gear can make the difference between a safe and enjoyable celebration and a trip to the emergency room.

Your eyes are particularly vulnerable to injury when handling fireworks. It is crucial to wear a pair of protective goggles. Goggles sold at DIY stores are generally sufficient, but ensure they fit well and are comfortable. Firework retailers often give away free goggles, but these should be inspected for quality and fit. Remember, regular spectacles do not provide adequate protection on their own and should not be relied upon in place of proper safety goggles.

Fireworks can be extremely loud, and repeated exposure to these sounds can damage your hearing. Disposable earplugs offer a basic level of protection and are a good choice for occasional use.

Last but certainly not least, protecting your hands is crucial when lighting fireworks, as there is always a risk of minor burns or other, more severe injuries. The type of gloves you wear will depend on the method you use to light the fireworks. If you need a lot of dexterity, consider thinner kitchen heat/cutting gloves, which provide a balance between protection and flexibility. For more heavy duty fireworks, thicker rigging gloves may be necessary. Always ensure your gloves allow you enough movement to handle lighters or blow torches effectively.

The Fourth of July is a day to celebrate our nation's independence and enjoy time with family and friends. However, it is also a day that sees a marked increase in accidents, injuries, and violence. By taking practical steps such as wearing a bulletproof vest, especially in areas where celebratory gunfire is more likely, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of injury. Remember, while the festivities are important, nothing is more valuable than your safety and well-being. Stay safe and have a happy Fourth of July!

To shop BulletSafe Bulletproof Vests, click here.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the author alone and do not reflect the opinions and views of BulletSafe or bulletsafe.com.

The possession of body armor by felons poses a significant danger to public safety and law enforcement. Body armor is designed to protect individuals from gunfire and other physical attacks, which makes it a valuable asset for those engaging in criminal activities. When felons, particularly those with violent backgrounds, have access to body armor, they gain a considerable tactical advantage over police officers and the public. This advantage can lead to more brazen and dangerous criminal behavior, as the felons may feel emboldened by their perceived invulnerability.

For law enforcement, the presence of body armor on felons complicates and escalates the risks associated with apprehending them. Police officers are trained to handle various threats, but when a suspect is wearing body armor, standard procedures and tactics can become less effective. For instance, in a shootout or armed confrontation, body armor can render many of the officers' defensive measures ineffective, putting their lives in greater jeopardy. This not only increases the risk to the officers themselves but also to innocent bystanders who might be caught in the crossfire. The added difficulty in neutralizing an armed and protected felon can lead to longer, more dangerous standoffs, heightening the potential for collateral damage.

The restriction on felons possessing body armor is not a violation of the Second Amendment, which protects the right to keep and bear arms. The Second Amendment does not guarantee unrestricted access to all forms of protective equipment, especially for those who have been convicted of serious crimes. Courts have upheld various regulations that restrict certain individuals, such as convicted felons, from accessing weapons and related gear. These restrictions are considered reasonable measures to ensure public safety and order. The rationale is that individuals who have demonstrated a propensity for violence and disregard for the law pose a heightened threat if they have access to body armor.

Where does it say that in the law?

Amendment 670 is a legal change to Chapter Two, Part K, Subpart 2 of the Federal Sentencing Guidelines Manual that introduces a new rule about body armor for people who have been convicted of violent felonies. It explains how such cases should be handled in court, including how serious the offense is and what extra penalties might apply.

Key Points of the Amendment

1. Who Does This Affect?
• This law applies to people who have been convicted of violent crimes, either at the federal or state level. If you've been convicted of a felony (a serious crime punishable by more than a year in prison), you cannot possess, purchase, or own body armor.
2. Base Offense Level: 10
• When a violent felon is caught with body armor, the starting point for determining their punishment is called the "base offense level," which is set at 10. This level helps decide how severe the punishment should be.
3. Increased Penalty for Using Body Armor in Another Crime
• If the person uses the body armor while committing another felony (another serious crime), their offense level increases by 4 points, making the punishment more severe.

Important Terms Explained

• Defendant: This term refers to the person who is being charged with the crime. In this amendment, it specifically means the individual whose actions are being judged, including anything they actively helped with.
• Felony Offense: This means any serious crime that could lead to more than a year in prison, regardless of whether the person was actually charged or convicted.
• Used: This means the body armor was actively employed to protect against gunfire or used for bartering. Simply having the armor in a car trunk, for example, doesn't count as "used."

Commentary and Notes

• Additional Guidance: The amendment includes extra notes to clarify how to apply these rules, like how to handle cases where the body armor was used in connection with another felony.
• No Double Penalty: If the body armor was used in another felony, and that felony itself has a rule about using body armor, you don’t get penalized twice for the same thing.

Why Was This Amendment Made?

The amendment was necessary because a new law (18 U.S.C. § 931) was created to specifically address violent felons possessing body armor. Before this amendment, there wasn't a clear guideline for how to handle these cases.

Penalties Under the New Law

• Statutory Maximum: The maximum prison term for possessing body armor as a violent felon is three years.
• Base Offense Level: A base offense level of 10 is set for this crime, lower than some gun-related crimes, reflecting its relative seriousness.
• Increased Punishment for Additional Crimes: If the body armor is used in another felony, the offense level goes up by 4 points, making the sentence potentially harsher.

Effective Date

• The amendment took effect on November 1, 2004.

Amendment 670 makes it clear that violent felons are prohibited from possessing, purchasing, or owning body armor. It sets specific rules for how these cases should be handled, including extra penalties if the armor is used in other crimes. This ensures that the legal system has a structured approach to dealing with these offenses.