Body Armor & Ballistic Protection

There are generally two categories, or "Target Audiences", for ballistic protection:
1. Armed Professionals / First Responders
2. All Others (ie, Individuals / Organizations with a desire for enhanced protection)

Regardless of which category you fit in, here are some general guidelines:

1. Understand the SPECTRUM OF THREATS you face.
Understand that there are different 'levels of protection' offered by ballistic armor, and balance the decision of what you use with the environment you will use it in. Also consider environmental factors, such as selecting a product with a Quick Release system if you operate in a maritime environment.

The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) governs the 'levels of protection', & has published updated guidelines for testing. The newest guidelines can be found here: Ballistic Resistance of Body Armor, NIJ Standard 0101.07

Here's a brief explanation of the 'levels of protection', so you can balance your selection between your 'Most Likely' & your 'Most Dangerous' threats:

Former Threat Level New Threat Level   Notes
(pre-2024 NIJ Standards) (2024 updated NIJ Standards)

NIJ Level II NIJ HG1 9mm / .357 Magnum
NIJ Level IIIA NIJ HG2 9mm / .44 Magnum
NIJ Level III NIJ RF1 5.56mm (M193) / 7.62mm (M80 Ball)
-------------- NIJ RF2 RF1 + 5.56mm (M855)
NIJ Level IV NIJ RF3 30.06 M2 AP

2. Understand the LAWS of your local jurisdiction.
Generally speaking, it is perfectly fine for most 'civilians' to own ballistic protection in the U.S. However, U.S. Federal Law says it's unlawful for someone with a Felony conviction 'for a crime of violence' to possess body armor. State laws may vary, so know the law & stay on the right side of it.

3. Size Matters;
An improper fit will hamper protection, & may degrade performance of duties. Each manufacturer will have their own 'sizing charts', so be sure you select the correct 'fit' for yourself, or for departments those who will be the end users. Prefer manufacturers / distributors who will allow an exchange for improper sizes of 'unused' items.

4.  Understand PROPER STORAGE / CARE of Ballistic Protection.
Each manufacturer will have their own 'care instructions', but the general guidelines are:
- Lay flat or hang when not in use. Avoid allowing the materials to 'bunch up', as this will affect wearability & protection.
- Keep it dry. Ballistic protection is temporarily degraded when armor is wet.
- Hand wash with a mild detergent as needed, & lay flat to air dry (NOT in direct sunlight)
- Don't drop / throw around ceramic plates. Micro-cracks can form over time, which degrades protection.

5. Shelf Life.
Most ballistic armor will degrade over time & be less effective. If you have old armor it may be time for an upgraded soft insert or plates.  Some manufacturers may also offer a free replacement if the item was struck in the line of duty, so check the policies prior to purchasing.

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