Is a bulletproof clothing really a thing?
Yes it is! You will be surprised by the level of fashion provided in today's bulletproof clothing.
In our recent article about the best Bulletproof Backpacks, we investigated how useful these bags are for protecting our children against gun violence. While doing our research into Bulletproof Backpacks we discovered a whole world of other bulletproofed clothing too. We were impressed by the range and quality of what is available so we thought that would share some of what we found.
These clothes have been specially fitted with lightweight flexible bulletproof panels. It may not be full body protection but it could still save your life if used properly.
This article has only scratched the surface about the actual bulletproofing part of the story but you can read about how personal bulletproofing works on our Bulletproof Backpacks page.
We would like to be very transparent about what went into writing this article. We do not own any bulletproof clothing. We have relied directly on manufacturer input for our research.
Much of our research was done mainly through conversation directly with the manufacturers. Most of them were very accommodating and very keen to share their testing data with us.
What is Bulletproof Clothing?
Bulletproof clothing is no different from any other clothing except that it contains a special soft and flexible bulletproof panel installed in either the side or bottom. This clothing is made in many different shapes and sizes.
You can buy everything from a bulletproof business suit to a bulletproof hoodie and everything in between. For practical reasons, most of the bulletproof items featured here are coats and jackets.
The armor used in bulletproof clothing is soft and flexible for comfort and concealment. So much so that you would never know that the fashionable person sitting next to you is wearing one.
Most bulletproof clothing is made with no more than an NIJ Level IIIA rating. This level of armor will protect against most handguns.
Whether you are an executive going to the office or a just going grocery shopping, if you are going to throw on a coat, why not make sure that it is bulletproof?
Types of Bulletproof Panel Materials
Soft Body Armor
Bulletproof Clothing with their soft protective panels fall into the category of soft body armor. There are three main materials used to create these bulletproof panels: Kevlar, Twaron and Dyneema. They are all designed to be lightweight and bullet resistant. These materials often go by other brand names so be sure to know which you are buying. You can read more about soft armor materials on our Bulletproof Backpack page.
Hard Plate Body Armor
You don't often see bulletproof clothing (other than bulletproof vests) made with hard plate armor due to the weight. This type of armor is much heavier than soft body armor but it provides protection against a much wider assortment of firearms. There are two main materials used to create these hard bulletproof panels: Commercial Ballistic Steel and Ceramic. You can read more about hard plate armor materials on our Bulletproof Backpack page.
Is it Legal to Own Bulletproof Clothing?
If you live in the United States then yes, it is legal to own bulletproof clothes. There are some exceptions though; owning bulletproof clothing - or even a bulletproof vest is completely legal in the United States. Some state laws restrict convicted felons from owning bulletproof vests so they may not be able to own bulletproof clothing either. Louisiana prohibits wearing armor on school property or school-sponsored functions. Connecticut forbids the sale of bulletproof vests over the phone or Internet - you must buy in person.
If you plan to travel outside the US, you should check before you leave as some countries like Canada and Australia take a dim view of civilians wearing body armor.
Most retail American manufacturers are not allowed to sell bulletproof products outside of the United States.
Shooting Statistics
Yes, it seems that lately, most mass shooters used an AR15. Would it surprise you to learn that statistically, there are far more shooting incidents using handguns than assault rifles? It sure surprised us! The chart below is the FBI Homicides by weapon used for the year 2019. This chart reveals that most NIJ level IIIA bulletproofing may have saved one of these lives.
National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Bulletproof Ratings
The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) sets minimum performance standards for bulletproof protection in their 0101.06 Armor Protection Levels Standard. The current standard is broken down into five different threat levels.
As all handbag and briefcase bulletproofing is NIJ Level IIA, we only focus on it's abilities. You can read more about the NIJ standards and what level will stop what ammunition on our Bulletproof Backpack page.
NIJ Level IIA (handguns) - This level of protection is becoming less and less common.
NIJ Level II (handguns) - This level of protection is an improvement on the performance of Level IIA products. It not only protects again larger rounds but it also protects the wearer against more of the impact force from the projectile. This is one of the more common materials used in lightweight vest and clothing.
- No rifle ammunition protection
- Protects from everything listed in Level IIA and:
- Protects from .357 Magnum JSP (Jacketed Soft Point) bullets
NIJ Level IIIA (handguns) - This level is the most widely used for soft armor although some hard plate armor is also rated at the NIJ IIIA level. NIJ Level IIA is the protection most commonly used in manufacturing most Bulletproof Clothing.
- No rifle ammunition protection
- Protects from everything listed in Level IIA and:
- Protects from .357 Sig FMJ FN (Flat Nose) bullets
- Protects from .44 Magnum SJHP (Semi Jacketed Hollow Point)
NIJ Level III (Rifles) - These plates are designed to withstand up to six spaced rifle bullet strikes. Level III plates can be heavy.
NIJ Level III+ (Rifles) - This is not a recognized NIJ Rating but it is one that has been adopted by plate armor manufacturers to recognize their ability to stop more and faster rounds.
NIJ Level IV (Armor Piercing Rifles) - This is the highest rated in the 0101.06 standard.
Children's Bulletproof Clothing
This easy to wear protective vest provides protection to the child's body from the waist up to the neck including the front, sides, and back.
• Weighs aprox. 4.2lbs
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NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: small (6-8), Medium (10-12), large (14-16)
• Gender: Unisex
• Available in: Blue, Black, Tan, White & Camo
Detachable overlapped Kevlar® panels are secured via Velcro in the torso portion to provide ballistic protection regardless, whether or not the hoodie is zipped up.
• Weighs 3 to 5lbs
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NIJ Level IIIA protection (including head)
• Sizes: small (6-8), medium (10-12), large (14-16)
• Gender: Unisex
• Available in: Natty Navy
This mesh-lined waterproof jacket can be worn all year round and the removable bulletproof liner offers front and back protective area coverage.
• Weighs 3lbs
•
NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: small , medium , large & X-large
• Gender: Male or female
• Available in: Black, blue, red, teal, pink & magenta
The Talos Ballistics NIJ IIIA Bulletproof Youths Fleece will help to give you a little extra peace of mind when out and about.
• Weighs 3lbs
•
NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: 8, 10, 12, 14, 16 & 18
• Gender: Unisex
• Available in: Navy, black, red, cobalt, green & burgundy
Women's Bulletproof Clothing
The Talos Ballistics NIJ IIIA Bulletproof Woman's Raven Vest is prefect for today's busy woman. A drop tail makes sure to keep your back warm when bending over.
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NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: X-small, small, medium, large, X-large & XX-large
• Gender: Women's
• Available in: Brown, dark brown & woodland
The Talos Ballistics NIJ IIIA Bulletproof Woman's Barn Coat is a classic design that is easy to move in. With little touches like inverted pleats and buttoned patch pockets, it's no surprise this coat continues to be a customer favorite.
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NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: X-small, small, medium, large & X-large
• Gender: Women's
• Available in: Tan and loden
The Talos Ballistics NIJ IIIA Bulletproof Delta Flight Jacket is a classic extra full cut flight jacket for the active woman. It features a super soft nylon fabric that is water repellent (outer fabric passed hydrostatic water pressure test) with a matte finish.
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NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: Small, medium, large & X-large
• Gender: Women's
• Available in: Black and sage
The NIJ IIIA bulletproof ballistics panel concealed inside the Talos Ballistics Level IIIA Bulletproof Women's Black Falcon Leather Jacket will give you the discreet protection. Made from Top-grain leather it closes with a heavy-duty brass zipper.
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NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: X-small, small, medium, large & X-large
• Gender: Women's
• Available in: Black
The BulletBlocker Law enforcement quality and military grade lightweight (~3 lbs) NIJ IIIA rated bulletproof vest. Advanced contour designed form-fitting vest for the most discrete outline and concealment.
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NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: X-small, small, medium, large, X-large & 2X-large
• Gender: Women's
• Available in: Black, navy, ivy & cayenne
The BulletBlocker NIJ IIIA Bulletproof Women's Fortress Fleece is a high-performance vest made from ultra-soft polyester fleece. This product is manufactured to fit your unique measurements for maximum concealability and a comfortable fit.
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NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: X-small, small, medium, large, X-large & 2X-large
• Gender: Women's
• Available in: Black, red, blue, gray & velvet
The Talos Ballistics NIJ IIIA Bulletproof Everest Jacket is the perfect parka to wear on chilly winter day when discreet protection is desired. This is the highest level of protection available in soft body armor. Ballistic panels are removable for easy cleaning.
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NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: X-small, small, medium, large &X-large
• Gender: Women's
• Available in: Black, red &blue
Quality Saint Laurent Women's Black Leather Moto jacket customized with Bulletblocker's NIJ IIIA Bulletproof protection.
Weighty zip details boost the edgy moto character of a sleek jacket crafted from supple lambskin leather and trimmed with a detachable collar of sumptuous tonal shearling.
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NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: 22" length (size 40)
• Gender: Women's
• Available in: Black
The MC Armor Cardinali Women's Level II Bulletproof waterproof quilted vest is made of polyester with leather finishes. It has three NIJ 0101.06 ballistic panels certified Level II: two in front overlapping, one in back for total protection.
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NIJ Level II protection
• Sizes: Medium, large & X-large
• Gender: Women's
• Available in: Navy blue
The MC Armor Novak Women's Level II Bulletproof Cape carefully constructed of baby alpaca with leather finishes, It has three NIJ 0101.06 ballistic panels certified Level II: two in front overlapping, one in back.
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NIJ Level II protection
• Sizes: Small, medium, large & X-large
• Gender: Women's
• Available in: Navy blue
& camel
The hood has integrated protection so you can instantly put it up when you need it. Detachable overlapped Kevlar panels are secured via Velcro in the torso portion to provide ballistic protection regardless, whether or not the hoodie is zipped up.
•
NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Provides head protection
• Sizes: Small, medium, large, X-large, 2X-large, 3X-large & 4X-large
• Gender: Unisex
• Available in: Navy
& black
This Medical Lab Coat from BulletBlocker is armored with a concealed NIJ IIIA bullet resistant liner for optimal safety on-the-job. Ideal for men and women in the medical, pharmaceutical, or consultation fields who desire a layer of lightweight anti-ballistic protection.
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NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: X-small, small, medium, large, X-large, 2X-large & 3X-large
• Gender: Unisex
• Available in: White
This NIJ level II bulletproof 100% Cotton Jacket equipped with 100% discrete ballistic panels capable of stopping ammunition and keeping the person's vital organs safe. Thanks to its Thermo-regulation system, NAZCA proactively regulates body temperature, heat and humidity.
•
NIJ Level II protection
• Sizes: Small, medium, large & X-large
• Gender: Unisex
• Available in: Blue denim
Men's Bulletproof Clothing
This incredibly lightweight bulletproof jacket is virtually invisible and fits exactly like a regular blazer. As well as being incredibly effective, this particular jacket lends a sense of style to the wearer.
•
NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: Small, medium, large, X-large, 2X-large & 3X-large
• Gender: Men's
• Available in: Charcoal
The BulletBlocker Classic dress vest offers a discrete way to conceal a lightweight, armored NIJ IIIA bulletproof liner. It looks sharp under any suit coat or sports jacket and can be worn during all type of events.
•
NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: X-small, small, medium, large, X-large, 2X-large & 3X-large
• Gender: Men's
• Available in: Black
This 100% virgin wool brand-name Armani Wall Street Suit is customized with NIJ IIIA Bulletproof protection. Made of pure , It features a single-breasted two-button jacket with notched lapels, straight shoulders, a tailored construction and shaped trim for a meticulous image. Pants included.
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NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: 38. 40, 44, 46, 48 & 50
• Gender: Men's
• Available in: Charcoal
This vest might just appear to be a waistcoat, but it's actually bulletproof to IIIA standards – affording you fantastic protection without sacrificing your professional appearance.
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NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: X-small, small, medium, large, X-large, 2X-large, 3X-large, 4X-large & 5X-large
• Gender: Men's
• Available in: Black & gray
Full Wrap featuring side coverage is available to provide additional ballistic protection. When the full wrap is added to clothing, the front and back panels overlap on each side providing an added tactical advantage.
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NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, 52 & 54 (short or long)
• Gender: Unisex
• Available in: Black, camel, vicuna & charcoal
The BulletBlocker NIJ IIIA Bulletproof Farm Coat is constructed of heavyweight sandstone duck with removable ballistic panels discreetly placed in the front and back of the jacket. Designed to hold all your gear with two inside pockets, two flapped chest pockets, and two front hand-warmer pockets.
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NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: Medium, large, X-large & 2X-large
• Gender: Men's
• Available in: Black, brown & dark brown
The Bulletproof Zone Bulletproof lightweight flight jacket is NIJ IIIA certified body armor and weighs in at only about 6.5 lbs. This classic extra full cut jacket offers a discrete way to conceal a lightweight, removable NIJ IIIA bullet-resistant liner.
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NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: Small, medium, large, X-large, 2X-large & 3X-large
• Gender: Men's
• Available in: Black, navy, green & teal
Made of a lightweight and comfortable material, you'd be forgiven for thinking this jacket doesn't offer much protection – but nothing could be further from the truth; despite being discrete and even stylish, the jacket meets the standards for III-A compliance.
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NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: Medium, large, X-large, 2X-large, 3X-large, 4X-large & , 5X-large
• Gender: Men's
• Available in: Black & Green
This NIJ Level IIIA bulletproof 100% leather jacket is classically styled with a straight hem that will fit comfortably over any type of clothing. It has a standard, shirt-type collar with a full zippered front for easy wearing and offers a discrete yet lightweight NIJ IIIA bullet-resistant hidden liner.
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NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: Small, medium, large, X-large, 2X-large & 3X-large
• Gender: Men's
• Available in: Black
The Bulletproof Zone NIJ IIIA Bulletproof Leather Biker Vest is a pure classic. It is constructed from premium cowhide leather, lined with black nylon, and offers a discrete way to conceal a lightweight, NIJ IIIA bulletproof liner. A single back panel is perfect for displaying your club's colors.
•
NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: Small, medium, large, X-large, 2X-large & 3X-large
• Gender: Men's
• Available in: Black
This bulletproof Wrangler Western Denim vest with leather finishes conceals two removable NIJ Certified Level IIIA ballistic panels on front and back covering vital organs. These panels are manufactured with a flexible ballistic technology that fits the body ergonomics.
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NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes:Medium, large, X-large & 2X-large
• Gender: Men's
• Available in: Black and hide
This bulletproof tactical raincoat is ideal for extreme conditions. Discrete ballistic jacket capable of stopping ammunition and keeping the person's vital organs safe. This jacket is certified by the United States Department of Justice (NIJ 0101.06) and the European Community (CE).
•
NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: Small, medium, large, X-large, 2X-large & 3X-large
• Gender: Men's
• Available in: Dark gray
The BulletBlocker NIJ IIIA Bulletproof Duck Jacket is built with 12-ounce, 100% ring-spun cotton duck. All main seams are triple-stitched for years of wear. It is a true classic jacket that provides great covert protection. Fashioned for warmth, this jacket includes two large hand-warmer pockets and two convenient inside pockets.
•
NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: Medium, large, X-large, 2X-large & 3X-large
• Gender: Men's
• Available in: Black & brown
The Talos Ballistics NIJ IIIA Bulletproof Dixon Fleece Jacket is not only warm and comfortable, it will also help keep you protected.
Armored with ballistic 4 panels, this jacket is as lightweight, warm, and durable. The elastic at the wrists will help block out the cold wind, and you can stow essentials in the secure pocket.
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NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: Small, medium, large, X-large & 2X-large
• Gender: Men's
• Available in: Charcoal, navy, red & two-toned black
The Talos Ballistic Level IIIA Bulletproof Denim Defender Jacket is an all-time favorite. The all-time classic jacket now offers added protection of our lightweight NIJ IIIA bulletproof panels.
The denim material is prewashed 100% cotton for a relaxed fit that only gets more comfortable with wear.
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NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: Small, medium, large, X-large, 2X-large & 3X-large
• Gender: Men's
• Available in: Blue, dark blue & black
The NIJ Level IIIA Denim Jacket from Israel Catalog provides discreet, fashionable protection wherever you go. This jacket is great for civilians who may travel through risk areas, VIPs, and plainclothes service members. Ideal for Civilians, VIPs, and Plainclothes Service Occupations.
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NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: Small, medium, large, X-large & 2X-large
• Gender: Men's
• Available in: Denim
Weighing only about 6.5 lbs, this extremely lightweight Denim Jacket offers a discreet, stylish way to conceal a lightweight NIJ Level IIIA bullet resistant liner. It has a ballistic panel in the back and two in the front that extends up to the collarbone area, covertly protecting your vital organs.
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NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: Small, medium, large, X-large, 2X-large & 3X-large
• Gender: Men's
• Available in: Blue & black
Legacy's Low Profile, Compression Shirt System & IIIA Soft Armor panels provide discreet, effective, and comfortable ballistic protection for all. All Legacy IIIA armor is now DUAL THREAT rated which includes IIIA Ballistic and hand stab threats. Legacy now offers this great protection at a very affordable price.
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NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: Small, medium, large, X-large, 2X-large & 3X-large
• Gender: Men's
• Available in: Black, white, gray & blue
An elegant black Dupont™ Kevlar® lined hooded top that guards you from blade cuts as well as providing puncture resistance up to NIJ Level 2.
This piece has the looks and comfort of a normal jacket with discreet slash protection. Stay protected while looking good in the Blade Runner Anti-Slash Level II Hoodie.
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NIJ Level II protection
• Sizes: X-small, small, medium, large, X-large, 2X-large & 3X-large
• Gender: Men's
• Available in: Black & gray
Padded waistcoat vest, 100% Polyester with discrete ballistic protection capable of stopping ammunition and keeping the person's vital organs safe. It has internal secret pockets that accept ballistic panels that can be removed at any time for cleaning and washing the garment.
•
NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: Medium, large, X-large & 2X-large
• Gender: Men's
• Available in: Blue, black & red
The BulletBlocker NIJ IIIA Bulletproof Fortress Fleece is a high-quality, high-performance vest made from ultra-soft polyester fleece. This product is manufactured entirely in-house, and is customized to fit your unique measurements for maximum concealability.
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NIJ Level IIIA protection
• Sizes: X-small, small, medium, large, X-large, 2X-large & 3X-large
• Gender: Unisex
• Available in: Black, red, navy & tan
The Top Bulletproof Backpacks
Unfortunately, most Americans are very aware that bulletproof backpacks exist. Many have even gone out and purchased them for their children. We have looked into these bags and have discovered some interesting facts that you should know about. Please take a look at our Bulletproof Backpacks page.
The Top Bulletproof Briefcases and Bags
Of course they make all kinds of bulletproof bags, purses and briefcases. There is everything from real Bulletproof Louis Vuitton bags to real Gucci bulletproof bags! Please take a look at our Bulletproof Bags and Purses page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does bulletproof clothing cost?
Bulletproof clothing can be very expensive. You can expect to pay at least $700 at the bottom end of the spectrum for a simple jacket or coat and all the way up to several thousand dollars for designer bulletproof clothes.
Is bulletproof clothing legal?
In the United States, it is legal to own personal bulletproof clothing. You do not need to be a police officer. You can read more at the top of this page.
Is there a bulletproof suit?
Yes, BulletBlocker has modified a gorgeous and very real Armani wool suit with Level IIIA protection.
How is bulletproof clothing made?
Bulletproof clothing is essentially normal shirts, vests and jacket that have been modified with special pockets that conseal bulletproof armor plates.
Is bulletproof clothing comfortable?
Yes, bulletproof clothing is comfortable. It is normal clothing with flexible bulletproof plates mounted in special pockets.
Are Bulletproof Clothing Stab Resistant?
Yes bulletproof clothing are stab resistant. Having said this, most manufacturers do not pay to have this tested so they cannot represent them as stab proof.
Which is Better For Bulletproof Clothing: Soft or Hard Plate Armor?
Because of the weight of hard plate (metal) armor, you almost never see this type of panel used in a handbag or a briefcase design. Soft armor is much lighter and therefor much more desirable for use in a bulletproof clothing.
Are Bulletproof Clothing Panels Washable?
Yes bulletproof clothing is washable because it is normal clothing. The bulletproof panels can be removed so that you can launder the clothing as you would any other clothes. The actual protective panels may be cleaned with a damp cloth to remove and dirt but it is not recommended for machine washing.
What do Bulletproof Clothing Panels Weigh?
The weight of a bulletproof panel is directly related to how much protection it provides. A soft panel will be much lighter than a hard steel plate panel.
Soft Panel Bulletproof Panel (Level IIIA): The average soft panel weights between 1 and 2 pound.
How Durable are Bulletproof Clothing Panels?
The clothing part itself is about as durable as any normal clothes. The protective panels are very durable (they are designed to stop bullets for Pete's sake).
How Long Will a Bulletproof Clothing Panels Last?
Most manufacturers warrantee their bulletproof panels for five years. Some will extend that to as much as ten years. There are even some that offer twenty year warrantees. The clothes will wear as normal clothing does.
Can Bulletproof Clothing Stop a Bullet From an AR-15 or AK-47?
As most bulletproof clothing employ NIJ Level IIIA protection, they are not certified to stop high velocity rounds from weapons such as an AR-15 or AK-47. At best it may slow the bullet down a little.
In order to stop a bullet from an AR-15 or AK-47, you would need a NIJ Level IV panel. Unfortunately, these panels are made from metal or ceramic so they would be too heavy to be of any practical use.
Are Bulletproof Clothing Panels TSA Compliant?
Yes, soft panel bulletproof panels (level IIIA) are TSA compliant. Having said this, the TSA state that the final decision is up to the officer at the checkpoint.
You can read more at the TSA website.
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