Bulletproof vests – the one item in a security officer’s job that they take for granted. If more law enforcement knew a little more about the vests saving their lives, they wouldn’t be so gun-shy about using it in the line of duty.

1 – They’re Not Actually Bulletproof
The term “bulletproof vests” is actually a misnomer. The vests are actually bullet resistant. The reality is that bullet resistant vests don’t protect the wearer from every threat. Nothing is bulletproof, not even a manhole cover. In an extremely minute percentage of cases, a bullet can get through a vest that’s been rated to stop them. The bullet could have a serrated edge or something similar to it. Bulletproof vests do not make the wearer become Superman.

Body armor is meant to absorb impact of the projectile. Depending on the vest’s rating it may have stronger absorption than other vests. This does not make it bulletproof. Most manufacturers avoid the term when naming vests, even when the vest is up to the highest standard.

2 – How The Fabric Stops Bullets
Body armor is comprised of very strong non-woven and/or woven ballistic fibers. The material will stop a bullet similar to how a net will stop a tennis ball or volleyball. It causes the bullet to turn, slow it down and send its energy through the whole panel. The bullet mushrooms, which helps in the process. Keep in mind that the slower the bullet is, the better off the wearer is going to be. Bullets that have a hard tip or fired at a high velocity will get through the fibers and right through the bullet proof vest.

3 – Every Single Gun Is Deadly
Many gun enthusiasts disregard the deadly potential some kinds of handgun calibers have. However, any bullet – small or large – that travels at a high rate of speed will get through body armor. Huge handgun rounds such as .44 Magnum and .45 ACP will travel at slower speeds, which allows the body armor to stop them. However, .357 SIG and 9mm guns travel at a quicker speed and can’t stop them as easily.

Important: The shells of a shotgun are very dangerous to bulletproof vests wearers because vests are not rated for these kinds of bullets. The reason? Shot shells do not have a consistent velocity.

4 – Bulletproof Vests’ Lifespan
The majority of the United States’ body armor has a standard National Institute of Justice five-year service rating. When a vest is worn each day, it loses the protective capability quicker than one that sits on a shelf. It doesn’t matter how short or long the body armor is worn, the vest should be carefully looked over for any signs of damage – creases, tears, smells and burns. If properly taken care of, the vest should last five years. Be sure to follow the care instructions. Read more about the lifespan of a bullet proof vest here.

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Pls admin move to the right section.