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Originally Posted On: https://bac-tactical.com/bulletproof-vests-vs-stab-proof-vests-whats-the-difference/

 

GUIDE TO BULLETPROOF VESTS VS STAB PROOF VESTS

Did you know that it’s possible to make bulletproof material out of spider silk? The Golden Orb spider in particular makes incredibly effective bulletproof silk.

However, only one bulletproof waistcoat got constructed from this silk due to a lack of supplies – that single waistcoat took eight years and a million spiders.

Luckily, there are plenty of materials bulletproof vests get made from. We’re even constantly learning more ways to make bulletproof materials. With how important protective gear is, it’s no surprise that people are considering buying body armor for personal use.

However, this is potentially dangerous – the average person doesn’t know the difference between bulletproof and stab proof vests. And there are differences.

That’s where we come in. We’ll tell you everything you need to know about the vests and their levels of protection.

BULLETPROOF VESTS

Bulletproof vests are made from a blend of multiple strong fibers, forming a thick material to protect your body from gunshot wounds. Unlike the name implies, however, bulletproof vests aren’t completely bulletproof- more bullet resistant. 

They work by absorbing the impact of the bullet, preventing it from puncturing the vest and injuring the wearer. People who get shot while wearing a bulletproof vest can expect to see a nasty bruise where the bullet hit.

Bulletproof vests are also made out of material such as ceramic. They can be effective for up to five years, though you will need a new one if the straps end up damaged.

In addition, bulletproof vests will lose their efficiency if they get wet- the water acts as a lubricant of sorts, making the protective material not as effective and putting you at risk.

STAB PROOF VESTS

Stab proof vests, like bulletproof vests, are made of a blend of different materials. KEVLAR and a type of plastic are the ones most commonly used.

Unlike a bulletproof vest, stab proof vests are made to protect from piercing wounds rather than the impact of a bullet.

Stab proof vests have different levels of protection depending on what you think you’ll need. Like bulletproof vests, stab proof vests are rigorously tested before they are deemed suitable to sell to the public.

NIJ RATINGS AND STANDARDS

The National Institute of Justice, or the NIJ, has designed a series of standards and ratings that both bulletproof vests and stab proof vests are subject to.

There are two levels of protection for bulletproof vests- NIJ II and NIJ IIIA. NIJ II cannot stop bullets shot out of rifles, but it is capable of bullets shot from short barrel handguns.

NIJ IIIA also does not protect you from rifles. However, it can protect you from long barrel handguns and .44 Semi Jacketed Hollow Point bullets. To  protect from stronger ammunition, you would need to upgrade to a hard armor vest.

There are two categories of stab proof vests. Both protect from spike and knife injuries – one is for commercially made weapons, the other is for improvised weapons such as the ones a prisoner would have.

Within these categories are three levels, increasing in the intensity of the blow it is intended to stop. It is important to note that the higher level you choose, the heavier and less flexible they become.

BULLETPROOF VS STAB PROOF VESTS: WHICH ONE DO I NEED?

The biggest thing to remember is that these items do not do both- stab proof vests cannot protect you from a bullet. Bulletproof vests offer a small amount of safety, but they cannot protect you from being stabbed.

With this in mind, you have to decide which one is right for you. Why are you choosing one? Are you worried about being mugged on your way home from work at night?

Or are you choosing one of these because you have hobbies like hunting and shooting and want to be prepared? Context is everything in these situations.

If you’re just getting one for protection in case of something like a break-in, then you can’t evaluate by the same criteria. If that’s the case, then you need to do your research.

Different areas will have different levels of crime- even in a single town, one neighborhood may be more subject to gun violence and another may be more prone to stabbing. Take the information around you into consideration and make your decision from there.

OTHER PROTECTIVE GEAR

While you’re looking at different types of gear, you should consider looking into kinds other than bulletproof or stab proof materials.

For example, tactical gloves protect your wrists and hands from injury without sacrificing flexibility. These are ideal if you have anyone in your family that participates in activities such as shooting.

Something else to think about buying is slash-proof clothing. While these materials don’t work against stabbing, they protect you from having your clothes cut. This type of clothing is designed with protection from assaults in mind, making it perfect for if you happen to go on runs alone.

In addition, some of these clothes are also bite-proof, which offers you further protection when you’re out on your own. If you want to be prepared, you can’t go wrong with looking at any of these other options.

SHOP PROTECTIVE GEAR TODAY

Now that you’ve heard about the differences between bulletproof vests and stab proof vests, it’s time for you to make your decision. When you’ve decided which item you need more, you can purchase it from us.

We sell a variety of protective gear, including unique items like bulletproof briefcases. As soon as you know what you want, you can buy it here.