Simple Discussion about "Bulletproof"
"Bulletproof" doesn't really mean bullet "proof." The most accurate term for bulletproof is really "bullet resistant" or "ballistic resistance." Absolutely no armor manufacturer or distributor should ever completely guarantee that their products will stop incoming bullets in every circumstance. There are just too many variables.
As a consumer, you must research and purchase from reputable suppliers that are dedicated to proper design, proven sources for materials and a sincere dedication to avoid cost-cutting schemes.
Our founder is a former inner city police officer. He has committed our company to offer products that he would use for his own family. We encourage you to read more about how body armor is assembled, tested and standardized by reading the following link from the National Institute of Justice (NIJ). You can access the link NIJ 0101.07.
We can develop all sorts of products with various materials and the resistance to high velocity projectiles are dependent upon various factors like:
1. The quality of the raw materials.
2. The layering of the base materials (in total number and pattern of layering).
3. The design and control of back face deformation (BFD).
4. The skill and experience of the manufacturer(s).
5. The redundancies built into the design(s).
6. Existing environmental factors (especially extremes) like heat, temperature, sunlight and humidity.
With the above in mind, we strive to develop and offer well-tested products with raw materials sourced from reputable suppliers. Some of these business relationships have existed for over a decade. In other cases, we acquire the materials and manufacture/assemble the products at our North Carolina location. Each specific product will have its own requirement for materials (usually ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), ceramic, Kevlar® or some other type of aramid) and layering that offers a certain level of bullet resistance and control of BFD.
Our hard armor meets the design specifications detailed on each label and are clearly marked with the threat level, serial numbers and other important information.
One very important factor (and most misunderstood) in designing bullet resistant products is the Back Face Deformation BFD. Even if a bullet resistant product will "stop" a bullet, the resultant trauma could still injure or kill the wearer. The incoming bullet's energy must be dispersed over a wide area, so that the focus of the impact is not concentrated enough to create a deformation in the armor deep enough to injure bones and organs.
Customers should also understand that BFD control emanates from an understanding that certain materials control BFD more than others just by the sheer nature of their chemical / physical properties. As a general example, identical products made from lightweight, UHMWPE do not have as much resistance as layered aramid (Kevlar® or Twaron® for example). This is acceptable in some cases, but the customer should be aware that one-on-one product comparisons are important. A face shield made with UHMWPE may be somewhat lighter, but will not normally have as much BFD control as an aramid mask.
Remember that not all bullet resistant distributors are the same. Make sure to deal with a knowledgeable provider, offering solid products, tested at reasonable prices. One of the most dangerous trends we have seen in online body armor sales through venues is the sale of "PE" helmets advertised to stop .44 magnum rounds. In our testing, most of the time - PE helmets do NOT stop the .44... period. Aramid helmets are superior for stopping power in our experience.
Every combination of body armor has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, Level 3+ and Level 4 hard armor plates worn in a basic plate carrier can protect covered areas from knives, pistols AND most rifle fire. That may be enough for most people. But, remember that there are exposed areas outside of traditional 10"x12" and 11"x14" rifle plates. Think about these vulnerabilities and address them, depending on your budget, tactical approach and other personal considerations.
Thanks and we will add more here as we answer additional questions and receive well-informed commentary by our customers.
