3 Different Types of Body Armor
Body armor can be defined as protective clothing that is designed to deflect or absorb physical attacks. Historically, military personnel typically used body armor; today, it may also be used by police, private security personnel, and regular citizens. The first record of Western body armor dates back to the Mycenaean Era in Ancient Greece around 3,400 years ago.
Today, there are a number of different types of body armor and you can choose the most suitable option depending on your specific circumstances. In this blog post, we will highlight 3 different types of body armor.
1. Ballistic Protection
Ballistic protection is better known as a bulletproof vest. As suggested in the name, it is designed to provide resistance to bullets. There are different levels of ballistic protection available, which determines what types of bullets a bulletproof vest can resist.
The different levels of bulletproof vests include:
- Level IIA
- Level II
- Level IIIA
- Level III
- Level IV
The higher the level, the greater level of protection it offers. For example, level 4 body armor can be used to protect against sub-machine gun and rifle bullets.
2. Edged-Blade Protection
Edged-blade protection is more commonly referred to as a stab-proof vest. It is designed to protect against attacks from weapons such as swords, knives, broken bottles, and axes.
The difference between a stab-proof vest and a bulletproof vest is the materials that they use. These vests typically have chainmail, which is included to prevent sharp objects from cutting through.
Spike protection is often grouped together with edged-blade protection, though they are different. Spike protection vests are designed to thwart attacks from spiked weapons such as screwdrivers, ice picks, and long needles.
3. Multi-Threat Armor
The above types of body armor are designed to protect from a particular type of attack and cannot be counted to provide protection from other threats. For example, a stab-proof vest is not specifically designed to prevent bullets. For a broader range of protection, it is possible to get multi-threat armor.
If you face different kinds of threats or are unsure of the weapons your assailants possess, multi-threat armor is beneficial. These are commonly seen in law enforcement, for example. They are also typically more expensive than the above types of body armor.
Choose the Best Body Armor for Maximum Protection
The most suitable type of body armor depends on the kind of attacks or assailants you are expecting to face. Each of the above types of body armor can be trusted to protect you from specific weaponry.
Many ordinary citizens like to wear body armor vests when in public. It helps them to feel protected against potential threats and to have the confidence to travel without fear. Many body armor vests are lightweight and can be comfortably worn under clothing.
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