Graham, a journalist with a keen interest in defense products, sits down with Brian, a seasoned expert in defense technology, to discuss the ins and outs of body armor. Below is a transcript of their insightful conversation.
1. What is body armor, and how does it work?
Graham: Hi, Brian, How are you? I know you are a defense product expert. I would like to ask you some question about body armor today. let's start with the basics. What exactly is body armor? How does it work?
Brian: Hi, Graham. It is my pleasure. Body armor, or say body armour is essentially protective equipment designed to protect the wearer from bullets, shrapnel and other projectiles. Its primary function is to spread the force of impact over a larger area, which helps to prevent penetration and reduce trauma to the body.
Graham: What materials can do this?
Brian: Good question. Body armor is usually made from materials such as Kevlar, Dyneema or steel. The effectiveness of these materials depends on the design and rating of the armor. For example, soft armor is lightweight and flexible, making it ideal for stopping handgun bullets. Hard armor, on the other hand, has rigid plates designed to stop faster rifle bullets.
2. What is the difference between body armor and a tactical vest?
Graham: A lot of people confuse body armor with tactical vests. Could you explain the difference?
Brian: Sure. Body armor is primarily focused on protection. It's designed to resist bullets and shrapnel and is made from materials like Kevlar or ceramic plates. Because of its protective purpose, it tends to be heavier.
Graham: And tactical vests?
Brian: Tactical vests, on the other hand, are all about utility. They're lightweight and come with pouches or MOLLE systems to carry equipment. While they improve organisation and accessibility during operations, they don't provide ballistic protection. Think of tactical vests as carrying equipment, while body armor is about protecting life.
Feature | Body Armor | Tactical Vest |
Primary Purpose | Protects against ballistic threats (bullets, shrapnel) | Carries equipment and gear for tactical operations |
Protection Level | Provides ballistic and stab resistance | Offers minimal or no ballistic protection |
Materials Used | Kevlar, Dyneema, steel, or ceramic plates | Nylon, polyester, or other durable fabrics |
Weight | Heavier due to protective plates | Lighter as it focuses on gear storage |
Structure | Includes soft panels and/or hard plates | Features multiple pouches and attachment points |
Usage | Military, law enforcement, security personnel | Law enforcement, military, and outdoor enthusiasts |
NIJ Certification | Often certified for ballistic protection | Typically not certified for ballistic protection |
Customizability | Limited to plate configurations | Highly customizable with MOLLE and gear options |
Cost | More expensive due to protective features | Generally less expensive |
Common Add-ons | Trauma pads, side plates | Mag pouches, radio holders, hydration packs |
3. What are the different types of body armor?
Graham: Let's talk about the different types of body armor. How many types are there and how do they differ?
Brian: There are different types of body armor. For example, soft body armor is flexible and lightweight and can defend against handguns. On the other hand, rigid body armor uses rigid panels (ceramic, steel or polyethylene) to stop large calibre rifle bullets.
Graham: Are there any special types?
Brian: Of course there are. There is concealable body armour for concealed protection, spike and puncture body armour for protection against razor blade threats, and body armour that can accommodate both soft and rigid panels. Blast resistant clothing is another category, designed to maximise protection against blast threats. The choice ultimately depends on the application and the level of risk involved.
Type | Description | Protection Level | Key Features |
Soft Body Armor | Lightweight armor made of flexible materials like Kevlar. | Protects against handguns and small arms. | Lightweight, concealable, and flexible for everyday use. |
Hard Body Armor | Rigid plates made of ceramic, steel, or polyethylene. | Protects against high-caliber rifles. | Heavy, durable, and used in high-risk environments. |
Plate Carriers | Vests designed to hold ballistic plates (hard or soft). | Customizable based on plate type. | Modular design with MOLLE for carrying additional gear. |
Concealable Armor | Slim, low-profile armor designed to be worn under clothing. | Protects against handguns. | Lightweight and discreet, ideal for law enforcement or civilian use. |
Tactical Body Armor | Combination of body armor with integrated gear-carrying features. | Varies by type of plates used. | Includes MOLLE webbing for carrying gear alongside ballistic protection. |
Spike/Stab Armor | Specialized armor designed to resist punctures from knives or spikes. | Protects against bladed or pointed weapons. | Often combined with soft armor for additional protection in correctional settings. |
Multi-threat Armor | Combines ballistic and stab/spike protection in one unit. | Protects against bullets and blades. | Versatile, ideal for law enforcement or security roles. |
Bomb/Explosive Suits | Heavy-duty armor designed to protect against blasts and shrapnel. | Protects against explosions. | Bulky, used by bomb disposal teams. |
4. What materials are used to make body armor?
Graham: You mentioned materials like Kevlar and ceramics. Can you explain what it takes to make body armor?
Brian: Sure. Soft armor is usually made from high strength synthetic fibres such as Kevlar, Twaron or Dyneema, woven into dense layers to absorb and dissipate the energy of a bullet.
Graham: What about hard armor?
Brian: Hard armor relies on rigid materials such as ceramic plates, steel or ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). Ceramic plates are lightweight and effective against rifle bullets, while steel plates are durable but heavy. UHMWPE is a popular lightweight alternative. The choice of material depends on the level of protection required and the intended use.
5. What is the NIJ rating system for body armor?
Graham: The NIJ rating system often comes up in discussions about body armour. What is it? Why is it important?
Brian: NIJ, the National Institute of Justice, has a rating system that ranks body armour based on its ability to stop different types of ammunition. It starts at the lowest level, Level I, which stops small calibre handguns, and goes up to Level IV, which stops armour-piercing rifle bullets.
Graham: So it's about matching the armour to the threat level?
Brian: That's right. Each level represents a different level of threat reduction to ensure that the user is properly protected in a given environment.
6. How do I choose the right body armor for my needs?
Graham: Suppose I am looking for body armor. How do I choose the right armor?
Brian: The first step is to determine the threat you are likely to face. For handguns, soft vests with a Class II or IIIA rating will suffice. For rifle threats you'll need a class III or IV hard body armour.
Graham: What about comfort?
Brian: That's another important factor. Soft body armour is better for everyday wear, whereas hard body armour is heavier but offers better protection. Fit is also important; it should be snug but not constricting. Finally, consider whether you need concealable armour or armour with tactical features to carry your gear.
7. What is a bulletproof plate, and does all body armor include one?
Graham: I've heard about bulletproof panels. Can you explain what they are?
Brian: Bulletproof panels are rigid inserts made from materials such as ceramic, steel, polyethylene and so on. They are used in plate carriers or tactical vests to increase ballistic protection, particularly against rifle bullets.
Graham: Aren't they in all body armour?
Brian: That's right. Soft armour is for handgun threats and does not include ballistic panels. Ballistic panels are specific to hard armour systems and have the flexibility to be added or removed as required in a variety of situations.
8. How do I maintain and store body armor properly?
Graham: Let's talk about care. How should I care for and store my armour?
Brian: Regular inspections are a must. Check for rips, tears or any other damage. Soft armour can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap, but do not immerse in water. For hard armour, a gentle wipe is sufficient.
Graham: What about storage?
Brian: Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and extreme temperatures. Do not fold or compress soft armour and store hard armour in an upright position. If available, use the storage bag supplied by the manufacturer. Proper care will ensure that your armour remains effective throughout its life.
9. Who are the top manufacturers of body armor?
Graham: Any recommendations for some of the best body armour brands?
Brian: Sure. Safe Life Defense is a great choice for multi-threat soft body armour, and AR500 Armor and Spartan Armor Systems are known for their durable hard panels. For military solutions, Point Blank Enterprises and Hesco are leading the way.
Graham: What should buyers consider when choosing a brand?
Brian: Intended use, level of protection and budget are key factors. Each brand has its own strengths, so it's important to choose a product that meets your needs.
Brand/Manufacturer | Specialty | Notable Products |
Safe Life Defense | Multi-threat soft armor | Concealable vests, multi-threat armor |
Lupu Tactical | Ballistic protection | Tactical vest,armor plates |
AR500 Armor | Affordable steel plates and kits | Level III and IV steel armor plates |
Spartan Armor Systems | Innovative hard armor plates | AR550 armor plates, tactical carriers |
Point Blank Enterprises | Police and military body armor | Tactical and concealable vests |
Hesco | Lightweight ceramic plates | Level IV plates for law enforcement |
10. How long does body armor last, and when should it be replaced?
Graham: Finally, how long does the armour last? How do I know when it's time to replace it?
Brian: Most body armour has a lifespan of 5 to 10 years. Soft body armour usually lasts about 5 years, while hard body armour can last longer if looked after properly. Manufacturers usually mark the expiry date.
Graham: And signs of wear?
Brian: Look for visible damage such as tears or cracks. If the armour has been hit or exposed to harsh conditions, it's time to replace it. Regular inspection is the key to safety.