Bulletproof vests are an important piece of equipment for police officers, but they are much more than that. In this article, we delve into the fascinating world of body armor to uncover the truth behind their effectiveness. We explore the science of bulletproof materials, debunk myths of absolute protection, and reveal why it is vital to always wear a vest. From understanding how different calibers penetrate armor to learning proper care and maintenance, this comprehensive guide is designed to equip officers with the knowledge they need to stay safe while on duty.
1 Why Are Bulletproof Vests Not Actually Bulletproof?
The term "bulletproof vest" is actually a misnomer. Vests are bulletproof, not bulletproof. The reality is that bulletproof vests do not protect the wearer from all threats. Nothing is bulletproof, not even manhole covers. In rare cases, bullets can pass through vests that are rated to stop them. Bullets may have jagged edges or something similar. A bulletproof vest does not make the wearer superhuman.
Bulletproof vests are designed to absorb the impact of projectiles. Depending on the rating of the vest, it may have a stronger absorption than other vests. This does not make it bulletproof. Most manufacturers avoid using this term when naming their vests, even if the vests are held to the highest standards.
2 How does bulletproof fabric stop a bullet?
Custom Bulletproof vests are made up of very strong non-woven and/or woven ballistic fibers. The ballistic material will stop a bullet similar to how a net will stop a tennis or volleyball. It turns the bullet, slowing it down and sending its energy throughout the panel. The bullet mushrooms, aiding in this process. Remember, the slower the bullet, the better off the wearer will be. Bullets with hard tips or fired at high speeds will pass through the fibers and right through the bulletproof vest.
3 Can a bulletproof vest stop a shotgun slug?
Shotgun shells are very dangerous to the wearer of a bulletproof vest because bulletproof vests are not designed for this type of bullet. The reason? Shotgun shells and rifle shells do not have consistent velocities. However, we can say that a NIJ Level IIIA bulletproof vest can stop certain shotgun loads. The movie below shows a 12 GA 1.25oz slug being successfully stopped by a ballistic panel.
4 What is the lifespan of a bulletproof vest?
Most body armor certified by the National Institute of Justice have a five-year service rating. When a vest is worn every day, it loses its protective capabilities faster than a vest that sits on a shelf. No matter how short or long you wear your body armor, you should carefully inspect the vest for any signs of damage—creases, tears, odors, and burns. If properly cared for, the vest should last five years. Be sure to follow the care instructions. Read more about the lifespan of a bulletproof vest here.
5 Can you clean the bulletproof plates with a sponge?
When you need to clean the bulletproof plates of a vest, use a damp sponge and mild soap. You can also use February Wind on them if you like. Never throw them in the washing machine and/or dryer. Don't iron them either, as irons can cause the fibers to burn or melt.
6 How can the wearer prevent panel sagging from happening?
When the bulletproof plates sag, the bulletproof vest is not very comfortable to wear. Worst of all, it doesn't provide the protection the wearer wants or needs. The way to deal with this problem is to rotate carriers. Most bulletproof vests are sold with several carriers, although it's best to have three. As the bracket rotates, it prevents the Velcro straps from fraying and stops the fabric from wearing out.
7 What bullets can a Level IIIA vest stop?
Bulletproof vests tested according to the NIJ Level IIIA test can stop most handgun bullets, up to .44 Magnum ammunition. However, some fast-moving 5.7mm bullets can penetrate Level IIIA body armor.
8 Can Small Handgun Bullets Penetrate Body Armor?
Many gun enthusiasts overlook the lethal potential of certain handgun calibers. Any bullet that travels at a very high velocity, regardless of size, can penetrate body armor. Huge handgun bullets, such as the .44 Magnum and .45 ACP travel at slower velocities, which makes it possible for body armor to stop them. However, the .357 SIG and 9mm bullets can travel at higher velocities, so ballistic panels cannot easily stop them. In the video below, you can see that even some 5.7mm bullets can penetrate body armor.
9 Do bulletproof vests keep the wearer safe even in a car accident
Every year, during the International Association of Chiefs of Police, DuPont holds a ceremony for officers saved by Kevlar body armor. Numerous officers honored at this ceremony have survived impacts from the steering column of patrol cars after accidents, not just bullets.
10 What is it like to be shot while wearing a bulletproof vest?
Most officers wearing bulletproof vests end up with nasty bruises from blunt force trauma. But it is unlikely to even incapacitate you. Many officers who have shot while wearing armor have been able to fire at attackers, and in many cases, they have been able to eliminate the threat.
Being hit by a 9mm or .44Mag bullet triggers an extremely sharp, mean, and sharp pain that will most likely haunt you for several seconds. The heat may also leave a small burn mark on your skin at the point of impact due to the kinetic energy and deformation of the "bullet" in a fraction of a second.
If you have suffered such an attack, you must seek medical help immediately and get checked out in case you suffer any internal bleeding due to rupture of any organs.
11 Why do bulletproof vests only cover the chest?
The ballistic plates inside a bulletproof vest are designed to protect vital organs. Extending the ballistic protection below the waistline would make it impossible to perform certain tasks, such as driving a car.
As you can see, there are a lot of things you don’t know about stab-proof vests, and you can also learn why it is vital that every law enforcement officer across the country and the world uses a bulletproof vest.
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