SELECTING THE SUITABLE BODY ARMOR

SELECTING THE SUITABLE BODY ARMOR
4 min read
03 November 2022

Along with a variety of styles, protection levels, and sizes, body armor is available in many other forms. Finding clear, succinct information about the fundamentals can be challenging and, put mildly, highly perplexing. Whether you're wanting to equip a security force with body armor or you're purchasing your first bulletproof vest, SafeGuard is aware that knowing the fundamentals of protection is always helpful.

WHO NEEDS BODY ARMOR? How Does It Work?

The terms "body armor," "bulletproof," and "bullet-resistant vest" are all often and interchangeably used. But what do these words actually mean? They can all be used interchangeably but may not all mean the same thing. Body armor, for instance, can apply to any type of bulletproof vest as well as extra protection like helmets, leg or groin protection, or even the specific plates that are meant to shield you from harm. Although there are many distinct types, as explained in SafeGuard Armor's Resources Pages, a bulletproof vest is generally self-explanatory. Some people prefer the term "bullet-resistant vests," which is another name for bulletproof vests. This is because body armor, such as bulletproof vests, cannot completely shield wearers from bullets. Nevertheless, they offer a great deal more protection than wearing nothing at all.

What is the process then? Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene or para-aramids are frequently used in body armor (UHMWPE). In essence, para-aramids are plastics that have been woven into fibers with a very high strength-to-weight ratio. These fibers are strong yet flexible, and when utilized to create a material (like Kevlar), they can "absorb" large quantities of energy. These materials function by holding the energy of the bullet inside these extra-strong fibers while simultaneously spreading it throughout these threads as the bullet passes through the various layers, effectively slowing it down to a full stop. Similar to Dyneema, UHMWPE is a multi-filament, gel-spun plastic fiber that is used in a similar fashion. These components are found in vests that can withstand the majority of bullets. These vests won't offer any protection against bigger caliber ammunition, though, for other people the threat is considerably greater. To provide protection in dangerous situations, "hard armor" uses plates made of ceramic, steel, or titanium. These plates function basically in the same way. They are obviously heavier and thicker, but it is only a minor price to pay for the added protection.

WHICH VEST SHOULD I USE?

The decision to buy body armor might literally mean the difference between life and death, thus this is the most crucial question you should ask. If the vest you are wearing does not shield you from the dangers you may encounter, you will have wasted your money and placed your safety in jeopardy. Additionally, you should avoid selecting body armor that provides overly extensive protection because it may be heavier and more constricting than a vest that gives less protection.

COVERS OR OVERT?

Covert and overt body armor are the two basic types created. Covert armor is made to be worn behind clothing. Overt vests are protective garments intended to be worn over clothing.

T-SHIRT VESTS

Typically, these are created in light hues. They are made to be as thin as possible to blend in when worn below clothing. Since they are worn beneath clothing, they frequently have moisture-wicking textiles, which will keep the wearer cool when worn for extended durations. They work well for close protection cops, undercover agents, and door supervisors who don't want anyone to know they are wearing body armor.

VESTS OVERT

They are intended to be worn over clothing. Normally, they are black, but if necessary, they can also be made in a range of colors. For instance, the bulletproof vests used by journalists in conflict zones are blue, security guards frequently don high-visibility vests, and military vests have camouflage patterns. Contrary to covert armor, overt armor is typically bulkier and more difficult to wear. Police officers, security personnel, and military personnel all have overt vests.

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zheng yimin 2
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