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What are the Different Kinds of Body Armor?

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Concealed body armor is what you think of when you hear the words "bulletproof vest." The can also be called "carriers". Concealed body armor is designed usually to the NIJ's II-A and II standards, which is determined according to the weaponry most commonly found in city and urban crime. The purpose of wearing a concealed vest is to protect yourself without letting the offender know you are wearing any type of body armor. If they do know that you are wearing body armor, the offender may try to shoot you in an unprotected area, like your head or legs. Concealed body armor are designed to be much more comfortable than the heavier types of body armor, thus increasing the likelihood of consistent use. Another plus is that this type of armor allows for easier movement--such as chasing perpetrators. Concealed body armor usually looks like a vest and offers front, back and side protection. Accessories can be purchased and attached to the armor to enhance protection in vulnerable areas, like the heart. Other accessories can be purchased to carry handcuffs, weapons and so forth.

Tactical body armor is what you think of when you hear the words, "SWAT Team!" This type of gear is more extensive and bulkier, and worn outside of clothing. There is no effort to conceal this type of body armor, as the words, "Sheriff" or "FBI" are often-times written across the body armor is big, bold letters. Some styles have steel armor plates to meet the standard of Level III or Level IV. The gear is designed to facilitate communications and hydration systems as well. And as seen in movies and on TV, body armor is available to man's best friend as police dogs can be just as vulnerable to gunfire as his or her handlers.

Military body armor looks similar to some types of tactical body armor, but is designed for military operations that may include long patrols, convoys and the inevitable dangers that military personnel encounter, such as road side bombs and grenades. As expected, head gear becomes a crucial component of military body armor. Accessories for military personnel include protective blankets, made from the same materials as the bulletproof vests, and can be thrown over a person or a small group of persons in the event of a sudden hail of gun fire or a detonated bomb.

Correctional body armor is what you think of when you think of "riot gear." These suits are the most extensive as far as coverage is concerned including head protection, a clear face-guard to protect again bodily fluids or dangerous liquids, throat protection, biceps protection, groin protection as well as the standard chest and back protection. A significant feature of correctional body armor is stab plates, which protect again stab wounds or slashes. This type of injury is more likely in a correctional institution than a bullet injury, though these types of gear do protect against ballistic threats. Certain types of correctional armor can be enhanced to withstand submachine gun fire, thus giving the body armor a broader range of applications.

Sources:

www.secondchance.com
www.pointblankarmor.com
www.interamer.com
www.bulletproofme.com

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