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Vests Bulletproof Vests

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A bulletproof vest is body armor designed to fit around your torso to protect you from projectiles like bullets or fragmentation from explosives. When you're looking at bulletproof vests, you're typically looking at either soft body armor or a plate carrier that can be outfitted with body armor plates.

Soft body armor is designed using lightweight fabrics layered to reduce the impact of a bullet. It's designed so you can wear it under a shirt or in an outer carrier. We also offer bulletproof t-shirts and backpacks that come outfitted with this type of protection or have specific designs for armor inserts. Shop online for great deals on Ace Link Armor Bulletproof Vests, Shellback Tactical Bulletproof Vests, Premier Body Armor Bulletproof Vests and other bulletproof vests from trusted brands.

Is It Legal for a Civilian to Wear a Bulletproof Vest?

The legality of bulletproof vests and body armor is largely a state issue. In most states, it's legal for civilians who do not have a felony conviction to buy and own body armor. However, in some states, it's illegal to wear it in public (except for law enforcement). It's best practice to check your local and state laws concerning bulletproof vests, as they may change at any time.

What Size of Bulletproof Vest or Body Armor Is Best for Me?

It depends. Soft body armor is usually tailored for the individual, but some manufacturers make general sizes like small, medium, and large. If you plan to buy a general size, just double check that the dimensions match your measurements.

For plate carriers, it's different. While they usually come in general sizes as well, the armor plate size is more important because it's the part that will protect your body. The right size plate carrier is the one that can hold the dimensions of your armor plate. For more on that, check out our Plate Carrier Sizing Guide.

What Do the Levels of Body Armor Mean and Which Should I Choose?

The National Institute of Justice, or NIJ, developed a rating system to convey standards, so buyers, mainly law enforcement, have an easier time understanding the level of protection a bulletproof vest will provide. NIJ ratings range from common handgun calibers to medium-bore rifle cartridges.

Body Armor Performance Standards Chart:

Type 2A (IIA)

Ammo Protection (New Armor):	9x19mm Parabellum 124 gr. FMJ RN @ 1225 ft/s(373 m/s) .40 S&W FMJ @ 1155 ft/s(352 m/s) .45 ACP FMJ @ 900 ft/s(274 m/s)
Ammo Protection (Conditioned):	9x19mm Parabellum 124 gr. FMJ RN @ 1165 ft/s(355 m/s) .40 S&W FMJ @ 1065 ft/s(324 m/s) .45 ACP FMJ @ 850 ft/s(259 m/s)
Type 2 (II)

Ammo Protection (New Armor):	9x19mm Parabellum 124 gr. FMJ RN @ 1305 ft/s(397 m/s) .357 Magnum 158 gr. JSP @ 1430 ft/s(435 m/s)
Ammo Protection (Conditioned):	9x19mm Parabellum 125 gr. FMJ RN @ 1245 ft/s(379 m/s) .357 Magnum 158 gr. JSP @ 1340 ft/s(408 m/s)
Type 3A (IIIA)

Ammo Protection (New Armor):	.357 SIG 125 gr. FMJ FN @ 1470 ft/s(447 m/s) .44 Magnum 240 gr. SJHP @ 1430 ft/s(435 m/s)
Ammo Protection (Conditioned):	.357 SIG 125 gr. FMJ FN @ 1410 ft/s(429 m/s) .44 Magnum 240 gr. SJHP @ 1340 ft/s(408 m/s)
Type 3 (III)

Ammo Protection (Conditioned):	7.62x51mm NATO 148 gr. M80 ball @ 2780 ft/s(846 m/s)
Type 4 (IV)

Ammo Protection (Conditioned):	.30-06 Springfield M2 166 gr. Armor-Piercing (AP) bullets @ 2880 ft/s(876 m/s)

Buy Bulletproof Vests Online on OpticsPlanet

Shop with us today to save on premium protection for law enforcement, tactical operators, and prepared civilians. We have a wide variety of bulletproof vests and backpacks available that are designed to enhance your safety against ballistic threats. Gear up today with high-quality gear from the hottest brands in the industry. Plus, get Free Shipping on most orders over $49.