NCJ Number
106111
Date Published
1987
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This training pamphlet on soft body armor considers its design, protection levels, selection, care, and evaluation and replacement.
Abstract
The discussion of soft body armor design describes how a bullet's impact energy is dispersed due to fiber weave so as to prevent penetration. The review of armor protection levels includes descriptions of six vest types by level of ballistic protection against standard test rounds. All types are covered by the National Institute of Justice standard. Guidance for the selection of body armor focuses on the hazards faced and comfort. Threat appraisal considers the type of weapon and ammunition used by officers (since being shot by one's own gun is a probability) and the types of weapons being used in crimes in the jurisdiction. Comfort, which determines whether or not the vest will be routinely worn by officers, has mainly to do with the lightness and coolness of the vest. The pamphlet dispels the myth that the prevalent wearing of armor will increase the likelihood that officers will be shot in the head. The discussion of armor care primarily addresses the washing method, and guidelines for evaluation and replacement list the items that should be periodically checked on vests to determine their condition and need of replacement. The International Association of Chiefs of Police/DuPont Kevlar Survivors' Club is briefly described. A discussion guide, questions and answers on the material, and 1 reading suggestion.