Body Armor News

Old Body Armor and Used Body Armor,  Body armor… it’s the one item in a police officer’s job that they take for granted. The problem with this is that it’s helpful in saving their lives. However, if more law enforcement knew a little more about body armor, they wouldn’t be so gun-shy about using it in the line of duty. 1 – It’s Not Actually Bulletproof
The reality about bulletproof vests is that they’re not bulletproof, they’re actually bullet resistant. The reality is that bullet resistant vests don’t protect the wearer from every threat. Nothing is bulletproof, not even a manhole cover. In extremely minute percentage of cases, a bullet can get through a vest that’s been rated to stop them. The bullet could have a serrated edge or something similar to it. Bulletproof vests do not make the wearer become Superman. 2 – Understanding How The Fabric Stops Bullets
Body armor is comprised of very strong non-woven and/or woven fibers. The material will stop a bullet similar to how a net will stop a tennis ball or volleyball. It causes the bullet to turn, slow it down and send its energy through the whole panel. The bullet mushrooms, which helps in the process. Keep in mind that the heavier and slower the bullet is, the better off the wearer is going to be. Bullets that have a hard tip or fired at a high velocity will get through the fibers and right through the bullet proof vest. 3 – Every Single Gun Is Deadly
Many gun enthusiasts disregard the deadly potential some kinds of handgun calibers have. However, any bullet – small or large – that travels at a high rate of speed will get through body armor. Huge handgun rounds such as .44 Magnum and .45 ACP will travel at slower speeds, which allows the body armor to stop them. However, .357 SIG and 9mm guns travel at a quicker speed and can’t stop them as easily. Important: The shells of a shotgun are very dangerous to bulletproof vests wearers because vests are not rated for these kinds of bullets. The reason? Shot shells do not have a consistent velocity. 4 – Body Armor’s Lifespan
The majority of the United States’ body armor has a standard National Institute of Justice five-year service rating. When a vest is worn each day, it loses the protective capability quicker than one that sits on a shelf. It doesn’t matter how short or long the body armor is worn, the vest should be carefully looked over for any signs of damage – creases, tears, smells and burns. If properly taken care of, the vest should last five years. Be sure to follow the care instructions. I found this awhile back: “NIJ tests failed to demonstrate any significant differences in 10-year-old armor, regardless of the extent of use or apparent physical condition” “The warranty exists solely to limit the manufacturer's liability on the product and is not a reflection of the anticipated service life of the product.” Guide to Police Body Armor, National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center (NLECTC) NIJ 0101.02.