Tactical and Military Vest
Frequently asked questions
What is Body Armor?
Body armor is protective clothing designed to absorb or deflect physical attacks. It is commonly used by military personnel, law enforcement officers, and individuals in high-risk professions to protect against bullets, knife stabs, and other threats.
How Does Body Armor Work?
Body armor works by distributing the energy of a forceful impact across a wide area. For ballistic protection, it often consists of layers of strong fibers that catch and deform a bullet, mushrooming it into a dish shape, and spreading the force over a larger area to stop penetration.
What are the Different Levels of Body Armor?
Body armor is categorized into different levels by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), ranging from Level IIA (which offers the least protection) to Level IV (which offers protection against high-caliber rifle shots). Each level is designed to protect against specific types of threats.
Can Civilians Purchase Body Armor?
Yes, in most countries, including the United States, civilians can legally purchase and wear body armor. However, there are restrictions in some areas, and it's important to check local laws before purchasing.
How Do You Choose the Right Body Armor?
Choosing the right body armor depends on the level of threat you're likely to face, the weight of the armor, mobility requirements, and the climate you'll be operating in. It's crucial to balance protection levels with the need for mobility and comfort.
How Should Body Armor Fit?
Proper fit is crucial for body armor to provide maximum protection. It should cover vital organs without restricting movement. It's recommended to get professionally fitted and to regularly check the fit, as body changes can affect how armor protects you.
How Long Does Body Armor Last?
The lifespan of body armor varies based on the material, usage, and care. Manufacturers typically recommend replacing body armor every five years. However, it should be inspected regularly for signs of wear and damage, and replaced immediately if compromised.
Can Body Armor Stop a Knife?
Not all body armor is designed to stop knife attacks. Stab-resistant armor is specifically designed to protect against knives and other sharp objects. This type of armor is graded differently from ballistic armor and is essential for those at risk of stab attacks.
Is Body Armor Heavy?
The weight of body armor varies based on the protection level and materials used. Advances in technology have led to the development of lighter materials that still offer high levels of protection, enhancing wearability for extended periods.
How Do You Care for Body Armor?
Proper care can extend the life of body armor. This includes storing it flat or on a hanger, cleaning it according to the manufacturer's instructions, and inspecting it regularly for damage. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or moisture, which can degrade the materials.
State By State Body Armor Laws
Body Armor Purchases
By purchasing from Security 20/20, Inc. (DBA: Security Pro USA) (herein "SECPRO"), you agree to be bound by these terms and conditions ("Legal and Terms of Use"); furthermore, you represent, warrant, and confirm the following: - You are at least 18 years of age and the age of majority in your state, province, or territory of residence at the time of purchase; - You are not a felon; - You are not legally barred from purchasing, possessing, or using the item(s) purchased; - You are legally allowed to possess and use the item(s) in your state; - Your purchase does not violate any local, state, or federal laws; - You are not purchasing the item(s) for criminal or amoral purposes; - You will only use the item(s) purchased for lawful purposes; - You are purchasing the item(s) on your own behalf and not on behalf someone else in order to avoid complying with these Terms and Conditions; - You assume all risk of use (or misuse) of the item(s) purchased; - You understand that body armor is not bullet proof- IT IS ONLY BULLET RESISTANT, and if a bullet strikes you there is always a risk you will be injured or killed; and - You agree, for yourself and your heirs, assigns, and agents, to fully and completely release, never bring any action in any court of law against, and to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless SECPRO for any and all liability stemming from your purchase, possession, or use of the item(s).
Illegally purchasing, possessing, or using body armor or other items sold by SECPRO may result in severe legal consequences for you, up to and including incarceration. SECPRO will fully cooperate with all criminal investigations. Non-law enforcement residents of Connecticut are prohibited from purchasing body armor. SECPRO assumes NO LIABILITY for your use or misuse of any item(s) sold or donated, including without limitation any incidental or consequential liability. ALL WARRANTIES, INCLUDING THE WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND MERCHANTABILITY, ARE HEREBY EXCLUDED. NO ORAL AGREEMENT OR WARRANTY OF ANY KIND SHALL BE BINDING UNLESS IN WRITING AND SIGNED BY SECPRO.
Statements, images, or descriptions are informational only, and not made or given as a warranty in any way. SECPRO specifically disavows any other representation, warranty, or liability related to the condition or use of the items sold. SECPRO does not cover any consequential damages, and its liability is limited to repairing or replacing defective items. Every item is sold "AS IS" and "WITH ALL FAULTS". The entire risk as to the quality and performance of the product is with the buyer. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Regulations. Level IV rifle rated body armor (Rifle Plates), ceramic or composite, fall under the jurisdiction of the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), and are subject to the export control laws of the U.S. Government. Export or retransfer of Level IV Rifle Plates by any means to any foreign end-user, or for any other end-use, whether in the U.S. or abroad, without the written approval of the U.S. Department of State, is prohibited. Level Ill rifle rated plates are now under the control of the Commerce Department's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) and administered under the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and remain subject to the export controls laws of the U.S. Government.
Export or retransfer of Level Ill Rifle Plates by any means to any foreign end-user, or for any other end-user, whether in the U.S or abroad, without the written approval of the U.S. Department of Commerce, is prohibited. The sale, transfer, transportation, or shipment outside of the U.S. of any product prohibited or restricted for export without complying with U.S. export control laws and regulations, including proper export licensing, documentation or authorization, is strictly prohibited and may result in civil penalties and/or constitute a federal crime. SECPRO will not engage in any transaction that requires the illegal export of any products and will not assist directly or indirectly with the illegal export or re-export of any products.