A bulletproof vest is an essential piece of equipment for any soldier, police officer, security guard, or civilian who wants to protect their life and health from the dangers of firearms. Bulletproof vests are designed to stop bullets that could cause fatal or serious internal injuries, such as hemorrhages, organ ruptures, or spinal damage. However, not every bulletproof vest is the same. There are various models on the market that differ in quality, durability, or comfort. So how to choose the best bulletproof vest that will meet our expectations and provide us with optimal protection? Here are some features to look out for when buying a bulletproof vest:
Durability
A bulletproof vest should be able to stop bullets of a certain kinetic energy, according to ballistic standards such as NIJ (National Institute of Justice) in USA, or STANAG (Standardization Agreement) in NATO. The higher the level of protection, the greater the durability of the vest, but also the greater its thickness and weight. Bulletproof vests fall into two main categories: soft and hard. Soft vests are made of textile materials and can stop bullets from small arms, such as pistols and revolvers. Hard vests are equipped with ballistic plates, made of ceramic, steel, or titanium, and can stop bullets from long weapons, such as rifles or carbines. Hard vests tend to be heavier and less flexible than soft vests, but provide better puncture protection. Some vests combine both types of protection, using ballistic plates on key areas of the body, such as the chest or back, and textile materials on the rest of the vest’s surface. The choice of a bulletproof vest should be tailored to the type of threat we may face, and to our preferences and physical capabilities.
Comfort and ergonomics
A properly fitted bulletproof vest is the key to comfort and freedom of movement. It guarantees that our activities will not be restricted. Its size, shape and cut are important to avoid pressure or unpleasant abrasions. The vest’s adjustability is also important, making it easy to put on, take off and adjust to changing conditions, such as the weather. In addition, the vest should offer breathable functions, allowing moisture and heat to escape from the body, preventing overheating and excessive sweating. It is also extremely important that it be resistant to abrasion, tears, and dirt, as well as easy to clean and maintain for long-lasting use and performance.
Low weight
A bullet-proof vest should be as light as possible so as not to strain our bodies and reduce our fitness and physical performance. A vest that is too heavy can cause fatigue, pain, or injury, especially during prolonged and intensive use. The vest should be made of high-density, lightweight materials, such as polyethylene or ceramic, which provide good protection with light weight. It should also be optimized in terms of the number and placement of protective elements, to provide protection only where it is needed, and not add unnecessary weight.
Modularity
The bulletproof vest should be modular, meaning it should be able to change and adjust the level and extent of protection depending on the situation and needs. The vest should be able to add or subtract protective elements, such as ballistic plates, shoulder or neck protectors, or change their position and angle. The vest should also have the ability to attach additional equipment, such as pockets, holsters, pouches, or holders for weapons, ammunition, or medical equipment. It should also be easy to install and remove, and reliable and stable in use.
Camouflage
A bulletproof vest should be camouflaged, meaning it should be invisible or difficult for a potential adversary to see. The vest should have a color, pattern, or texture that matches the environment you are in, or the clothing you are wearing. The vest should also minimize the reflection of light or the emission of heat that could give away our presence. It also must not make any sounds that could draw attention to us.
Ease of access
The bulletproof vest should be easy to access, meaning it should be able to be quickly and easily put on, taken off, or adjusted as needed. The vest should have a simple and intuitive fastening and unfastening system, such as a zipper, Velcro, or buckle, that will not jam, loosen, or break. It is also important to be able to quickly shed it in an emergency.
Compatibility
A bulletproof vest should be compatible, that is, it should fit and work with other equipment we are wearing or using. The vest should fit our clothing so that it does not slip off. The vest should also fit our helmet so that it does not restrict our visibility, hearing, or breathing. The vest should also fit our weapon so that it does not impede our aiming, shooting, or reloading. The vest should also fit our backpack, belt, or other gear so that it does not cause uneven weight distribution or unnecessary friction.
Waterproof
A bulletproof vest should be waterproof, meaning it should not allow water to pass through, which could reduce its effectiveness or cause damage. The vest should have a hydrophobic coating, meaning it repels water, or be covered with a waterproof material such as nylon or polyester. The vest should also be moisture resistant, meaning it should not absorb water from the air, which could cause corrosion, mold, or fungus. The vest should also be immersion-resistant, that is, it should not lose its protective properties when it is underwater, such as when swimming or diving.
Breathability
A bulletproof vest must be breathable, it should allow air to circulate between our body and the vest, which will ensure our thermal and hygienic comfort. The vest should have ventilation properties, that is, it should have holes, mesh or perforations that will allow heat and moisture to escape from our body.
Ballistic protection at the highest level
These are just some of the features that a quality bulletproof vest should have. EU Shields offers a wide selection of bulletproof vests and other ballistic protection equipment that meet these and many other criteria. We invite you to look at our offer and contact us with any questions or concerns by email at office@eu-shields.com. We are at your service and will be happy to assist you in selecting the best bulletproof vest for your needs.
