Body Armor

Body Armor

Why do I need body armor?

In today’s world there is no security of anything. Where terrorism attacks have become a part of life, we never know when we lose our loved ones. Though one cannot escape from such a situation but there are ways to counter an attack; one of which is the use of body armor. It is also known as bulletproof vests. These armors have been there for years but thanks to ammunition technology the material and designs of these have changed considerably making them more comfortable. These are also used by the police force, Army officials and Security to face tough situations.

Body armor can be of different types. But whatever be the kind, it should be a concealed one. The main idea of wearing bulletproof vests is to protect oneself; if the attacker gets to know that you are putting on armor, he would target your head or other body parts that the vest does not protect. For this reason if an armor of very thick material is worn under your clothing would not serve the purpose. Jacket type armor is a more convenient option as it is the least likely to expose the armor and can be easily put on.

There are various standards of body armor. The type I provide the minimum level of protection, which should be worn by every armed-force officer when he is on duty. It is extremely light. Type II-A is much heavier than the type I variant, which is worn by the police department. It works best against ammunitions like 9 mm and 0.40 S &W.

The type II is thicker than both type I and II-A protection vests. It also works effectively when used against I and II-A type threats. It is generally worn by the officers who require high protection against 9mm FMJ RN (Full metal jacketed-round nose) or .357 Magnum bullets.

The type III-A is best concealable armor available. As such it can be worn all the time but people staying in warm and humid areas should also consider other options. It is effective against very high speed 9mm FMJ RN and .44 Magnum bullets.

Type III works best for 7.62mm FMJ bullets. It also works well for type I, II, II-A and III-A threats, although it is mainly used in certain tactical situations.

Type IV is the best body armor, which can even withstand 0.30 armor piercing bullets. The material used is generally, ceramic. Though it provides high protection but the vest can be used only once as the ceramic breaks in a single shot.

There are various materials from which the bulletproof vest is prepared. Kevlar is a very common material. Though it is a little expensive but it a very sturdy and has a high longevity. Dragon skin, Zylon are similar to Kevlar but the cost is much higher. Ceramics or alumina is a robust body armor material with very high melting point. Metal plate is another bulletproof material, with long durability but it bogs down the user because of its heavy weight.

About the Author

There are many bulletproof vests and body armor available but one should purchase only after a thorough research of all the materials.

How do i make a simple body armor vest out of a shirt and simple materials?

I do not have 50 dollars to go and spend on a vest for paintball nor the time. I am trying to make a body armor. I took and old shirt and taped a lot of cardboard onto it. That didnt work. any ideas would be much appreaciated.

Interesting idea...

Perhaps a 1/2 foam mat for camping? Cut into 2 pieces: one for the front of the body that covers the clavicles, chest, and belly. A second piece cut so that is covers the upper and lower back. Put the pieces between two shirts and sew the shirts together sandwiching the padding in place.

Just an idea off the top of my head...

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