If you find yourself in a situation where people are shooting at you, a bulletproof vest might be the piece of equipment that saves your life.A bulletproof vest is usually made of a strong woven fiber called Kevlar or a plate that is capable of stopping bullets before they hit your body.When buying a bulletproof vest, it's important to weigh all of your options and make sure it fits.If you measure yourself correctly and educate yourself on different models, you can get a bulletproof vest that fits well and protects you from gunfire.
Step 1: If you want to wear a vest, you need to know if it's legal.
Body armor is not allowed in the United States if you have been convicted of a violent crime.In Australia, it is illegal to wear a bulletproof vest without a permit.Make sure that you don't need a permit to purchase bullet proof vests or body armor if you search online for your local and federal laws.Before attempting to purchase a vest, you should get a permit from your state or country.
Step 2: You should choose a vest based on the threat you will face.
The IIA, II, and IIIA are made to stop bullets from handguns.If you are likely to encounter small arms fire, these three vests are recommended.A level III vest, which can stop rifle bullets, is needed if you are in a war zone.What kind of atmosphere are you in?If you're not in a war zone, get a lighter vest so that you can wear it under your clothes.A 9mm or.40 caliber handgun can be stopped by the IIA.The II vest is able to stop handgun bullets.Smaller caliber handgun bullets can be stopped by an IIIA vest.A level IV vest can save you from.30 caliber armor piercing rounds.
Step 3: Decide if you want a concealed vest.
You should wear a vest that won't be seen if you're a civilian or an undercover agent.Military personnel and police officers prefer external vests and plates because they are easier to remove.
Step 4: Consider how much mobility you need.
The thicker and heavier your vest is, the higher the protection level is.If you want to be quick on your feet, you should get a lighter vest like the II or IIA.It will be harder to move in heavier body armor.
Step 5: If you want to stop blade attacks, consider buying stab resistant armor.
Look at the armor panel label on the inside of your vest to see if it is made to protect you from knife attacks.If you think you will be in a situation where your greatest threat is a blade, consider purchasing a stab-resistant vest instead of a standard ballistics vest.The armor is specially designed to stop both knives and bullets.You are more likely to be slashed or stabbed if you are a correctional officer.
Step 6: You should get a vest that can stop a bullet from the gun that you plan on carrying.
If you are going to carry a gun, you should purchase a vest that is capable of stopping a bullet from the weapon that you plan on carrying.If you are disarmed and your own weapon is used against you, this may save your life.
Step 7: Take your height and weight.
The sizes of vests are based on your height and weight.To determine how tall you are, use a tape measure.To get your current weight, you need to step on a scale and write your weight on paper.
Step 8: Measure yourself with the clothes you will be wearing.
If you are buying a concealed vest, make sure you wear a tight fitting t-shirt and pants.Measure yourself if you are wearing a larger vest and wear the uniform or clothes you will be wearing.This will give you an idea of the vest size you need.If you are a law enforcement official, you should always wear a utility belt.
Step 9: Measure your chest
Someone can help with the measurement.Wrap a tape measure around your chest so that it runs across your back.Round the measurement up to the next number.Take a note of the measurement.If your chest measurement was 16.25 inches (41.3 cm), you should round it up to 17 inches (43 cm).While you get measured for your vest, relax your muscles and breathe normally.
Step 10: Take a look at the largest part of your torso.
Wrap the tape around the widest part of your body.As well, round this number up.
Step 11: Take a measurement from your collarbone to your stomach.
Take the tape measure to the center of your collarbone and hang it under your bellybutton.Measure from the center of your collarbone to the top of the belt.Determine how long your vest should be by using this measurement.Some people make the mistake of getting a vest that hangs down below their hips.It's bad because it makes it hard to move while you wear it.
Step 12: If you want to buy a vest, make sure that it's on the NIJ compliant list.
A list of tested manufacturers has been created by the National Institute of Justice.The vests are tested and graded according to their level of protection.If you want a vest that isn't certified, choose a manufacturer that has already been tested.To find a list of all the certified manufacturers, visit justnet.org.You can find reviews of different manufacturers online.There is a good chance that you will like the vests that the manufacturer makes.
Step 13: The manufacturer's website has a lot of information.
The manufacturer's website can be found on the NIJ compliant list.Some companies will allow direct sales while others will require you to go to a physical location.Look on their contact page if you want to find retailers.You can purchase the vest at the authorized dealer once you find the location.
Step 14: Take your body and vest measurements.
If you want to buy a vest, you should compare your body measurements.You can request the dimensions of the vest through email or by calling the manufacturer.They might want you to come into the store so they can measure you.
Step 15: You can purchase a vest that fits your budget.
Determine how much money you have to spend on the vest and get one that falls within your budget.Some vests cost more because of their appearance.Some will cost more because of their level of protection.Make sure the vest is approved by the National Institute of Justice.
Step 16: Before buying the vest, try it on.
Make sure that the vest isn't too tight or loose on your body, and that you feel comfortable wearing it.If you can't move your arms because it feels bulky, look for a vest that fits you better.You should never wear another person's vest because it won't protect you.If you're buying a vest online, make sure that they have a return or replacement policy so that you can return it if it doesn't fit.
Step 17: Move while wearing a vest.
Run around and sit in a chair.Whether you're sitting or running, your vest should be comfortable.If you can't move because of your vest, try to do physical acts.As you make your movements, the vest should not shift too high or low.
Step 18: It's a good idea to get a replacement vest every five years if you get hit with a bullet.
The material of the vest can be damaged by a bullet, so it needs to be replaced.You should replace your bulletproof vest every five years.The material inside the vest starts to break down after a couple of years.It's better to be safe than sorry, even if an expired vest stops a bullet.