Body Armor

BlackGun

BlackGun

Pimpin Ain’t Easy
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Looking again for body armor. I just can’t make up my mind due to my lack of knowledge other than I do understand the levels quite clearly. What I would ultimately like is out of my willingness to spend.

Does anyone know of Safe Life Defense or have experience with their products. Here is a link to the one I’m looking at termed Concealable Enhanced Multi Threat Level IIIa+ priced at $549.00. I do not want heavy panels with rifle protection. This is the link: https://safelifedefense.com/product/enhanced-multi-threat-vest/
 
The fiberglass stuff I'm making is as good. After putting two 9mm in a panel at 3ft and it not even making a dent, I see zero reason to spend more than $60 on two panels and another $30 on a vest. The chances you'll need it are slim to none. You would have money left over for another pistola.

You can poo poo the home baked protection but the proof is in the pudding. No spalding either.
 
BlackGun said:
Looking again for body armor. I just can’t make up my mind due to my lack of knowledge other than I do understand the levels quite clearly. What I would ultimately like is out of my willingness to spend.

Does anyone know of Safe Life Defense or have experience with their products. Here is a link to the one I’m looking at termed Concealable Enhanced Multi Threat Level IIIa+ priced at $549.00. I do not want heavy panels with rifle protection. This is the link: https://safelifedefense.com/product/enhanced-multi-threat-vest/
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I've looked quite a lot at the SafeLife products.
I will probably end up buying one of their Flexible Rifle Armor Systems vests for both my wife and I as opposed to a PC set up.

The first thing you have to understand with these vests are that they do not carry a NIJ certification rating. It doesn't mean they won't stop a threat, they are independently rated and certified but not to the rigors of NIJ testing if that matters to you.

What's your intentions with the armor?
 
NCMedic said:
I've looked quite a lot at the SafeLife products.
I will probably end up buying one of their Flexible Rifle Armor Systems vests for both my wife and I as opposed to a PC set up.

The first thing you have to understand with these vests are that they do not carry a NIJ certification rating. It doesn't mean they won't stop a threat, they are independently rated and certified but not to the rigors of NIJ testing if that matters to you.

What's your intentions with the armor?
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Late service call Protection at night at businesses.
 
BlackGun said:
Late service call Protection at night at businesses.
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If your not going to be wearing it 8+hrs a day, it would be just fine. If you are, there are lighter weight and more flexible option out there but at increased costs.

The thing I like about their products are the combination of stab protection.

I'm waiting on a policy change that will allow us to wear external body armor. If it doesn't change, I will likely go with the one you linked to.
 
$200 per IIIa plate... met these folks last weekend at Prepper Camp...

HighCom Body Armor
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Global AeroConnect, Inc. is proud to be a premier authorized distributor of Highcom Armor Products. With our agreement, we strive to provide the best with Highcom Armor in promoting and distributing specifically to foreign and domestic military and law enforcement agencies. Established in 1997, located and produced in Columbus, Ohio, Highcom Armor was the first company in the world to obtain the BA9000 Certification specific to ballistic resistant body armor manufacturing and testing processes in 2014. Our hard armor is some of the best in the world, meeting and exceeding the needs of the most demanding operators. Department of Defense and U.S. federal and state agencies, countless international coalition forces, and law enforcement agencies actively deploy our products in life-threatening situations.

HighCom offers a full line of military and law enforcement grade Level IIIA, III, III+, III++, IV and Special Threat hard armor plate inserts. Our hard armor plates are NIJ (National Institute of Justice) compliant, they undergo special threat assessment, and some models are independently tested according to the NIJ 0108.01 standard. Our plates are designed, developed, and manufactured using state-of-the-art processes and equipment to ensure quality and performance when deployed by operators throughout numerous tactical and urban situations. Over the past decade, Highcom Armor has delivered over 1 million plates to the US Military alone and considered by the government and its allies as a key supplier of high performing personal protective gear. Make the move today to dependable, hard and soft armor solutions.

Contact: Joe Benson, (708)-702-7900, [email protected]
 
We worked with HighCom when I was at DBT. They did OEM plates for us for a few years. Real good company to work with and their plates always did well in testing. They are on my good guys list if I ever needed to buy armor.


CHRIS
 
NCMedic said:
I've looked quite a lot at the SafeLife products.
I will probably end up buying one of their Flexible Rifle Armor Systems vests for both my wife and I as opposed to a PC set up.

The first thing you have to understand with these vests are that they do not carry a NIJ certification rating. It doesn't mean they won't stop a threat, they are independently rated and certified but not to the rigors of NIJ testing if that matters to you.

What's your intentions with the armor?
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I would love to have the Flexible Rifle Armor but at $2200.00 I would need to be in more threatening situations. When I first looked at armor I planned to use it for motorcycle riding on trails also but I have sold both trail and street bikes.

I’ve spent too much time looking for the right thing and need to pull the trigger. Facebook has tracked all my searches and now half of post are ads for body armor or gun items.
 
BlackGun said:
Looking again for body armor. I just can’t make up my mind due to my lack of knowledge other than I do understand the levels quite clearly. What I would ultimately like is out of my willingness to spend.

Does anyone know of Safe Life Defense or have experience with their products. Here is a link to the one I’m looking at termed Concealable Enhanced Multi Threat Level IIIa+ priced at $549.00. I do not want heavy panels with rifle protection. This is the link: https://safelifedefense.com/product/enhanced-multi-threat-vest/
Click to expand...
BlackGun said:
Looking again for body armor. I just can’t make up my mind due to my lack of knowledge other than I do understand the levels quite clearly. What I would ultimately like is out of my willingness to spend.

Does anyone know of Safe Life Defense or have experience with their products. Here is a link to the one I’m looking at termed Concealable Enhanced Multi Threat Level IIIa+ priced at $549.00. I do not want heavy panels with rifle protection. This is the link: https://safelifedefense.com/product/enhanced-multi-threat-vest/
Click to expand...
Dude! You SUCK!
Now I have to buy this too? My kids will have no inheritance left!
 
Sorry to resurrect an old thread, but I've been planning to buy armor for a while and figured I'd ping those who have already gone there.
NCMedic said:
I've looked quite a lot at the SafeLife products.
I will probably end up buying one of their Flexible Rifle Armor Systems vests for both my wife and I as opposed to a PC set up.

The first thing you have to understand with these vests are that they do not carry a NIJ certification rating. It doesn't mean they won't stop a threat, they are independently rated and certified but not to the rigors of NIJ testing if that matters to you.

What's your intentions with the armor?
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I'm aware of the independent testing and lack of NIJ cert with many SLD products (but not all, they actually have some NIJ-certified, now: https://safelifedefense.com/product-category/body-armor/nij-certified/). That said, I've been looking at the FRAS (which is apparently going through NIJ certification) and was curious if you ended up buying it and, if so, how you liked it. (I'm also curious if you got the side armor panels and your opinion on them.) My uses will specifically be training + SHTF. (Gotta train in what you plan to wear!)


BlackGun said:
Late service call Protection at night at businesses.
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What did you ultimately end up buying ... and why?
 
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surrealone said:
Sorry to resurrect an old thread, but I've been planning to buy armor for a while and figured I'd ping those who have already gone there.

I'm aware of the independent testing and lack of NIJ cert with many SLD products (but not all, they actually have some NIJ-certified, now: https://safelifedefense.com/product-category/body-armor/nij-certified/). That said, I've been looking at the FRAS (which is apparently going through NIJ certification) and was curious if you ended up buying it and, if so, how you liked it. (I'm also curious if you got the side armor panels and your opinion on them.) My uses will specifically be training + SHTF. (Gotta train in what you plan to wear!)



What did you ultimately end up buying ... and why?
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I made no purchase. It was so confusing I put it on the back burner. I did get a card at a gun show and tried on 4 types. I think I’m going to wait on a gun show and talk with the same guys again.
 
I got a deal on spartan plates but wouldn’t ever want to wear that thing for long. Very heavy and if it’s not just a SHTF scenario I would steer clear on them.
 
What about this one? I just recently started looking.

bulletproofzone.com

BulletSafe Bulletproof Vest VP3 Level IIIA - NIJ Certified

The VP3 Vest retains BulletSafe’s legendary low price-point while providing first-class protection from most handgun calibers up to .44 Magnum. Order BulletSafe Bulletproof Vest VP3 Level IIIA - NIJ Certified today from Bulletproof Zone. FREE Shipping & Insurance on all Ballistic Body Armor.
bulletproofzone.com bulletproofzone.com
 
amnesia said:
Hesco l210 plates and a carrier that fits you. I prefer shellback tactical.
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Those don't appear to be flexible. I'm not sold on flexible armor (i.e. it's not necessarily a must-have), but I'd think it'd be preferable from a comfort standpoint?


Snal~ said:
What about this one? I just recently started looking.

bulletproofzone.com

BulletSafe Bulletproof Vest VP3 Level IIIA - NIJ Certified

The VP3 Vest retains BulletSafe’s legendary low price-point while providing first-class protection from most handgun calibers up to .44 Magnum. Order BulletSafe Bulletproof Vest VP3 Level IIIA - NIJ Certified today from Bulletproof Zone. FREE Shipping & Insurance on all Ballistic Body Armor.
bulletproofzone.com bulletproofzone.com
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I'm after level III or so-called level III+.
 
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Fred said:
Do you want to stop pistol rounds or rifle rounds?
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Both -- which means rifle. If I were in an urban environment where handguns would be the most likely threats in a SHTF scenario, then IIIA or IIIA+ would be fine, but I live in rural America where most everyone has both a rifle and a shotgun or 5 (of each) ... so I feel III or III+ make the most sense for me in a SHTF scenario given the plethora of .223, 5.56, 30.06, and .308 caliber rifles that are the most likely threats in a SHTF scenario where I am.

IV seems extreme ... and is usually rated only for one shot, too, IIRC. Seems like more capability (and weight) than I might need...
 
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surrealone said:
Both -- which means rifle. If I were in an urban environment where handguns would be the most likely threats in a SHTF scenario, then IIIA or IIIA+ would be fine, but I live in rural America where most everyone has both a rifle and a shotgun or 5 (of each) ... so I feel III or III+ make the most sense for me in a SHTF scenario given the plethora of .223, 5.56, 30.06, and .308 caliber rifles that are the most likely threats in a SHTF scenario where I am.

IV seems extreme ... and is usually rated only for one shot, too, IIRC. Seems like more capability (and weight) than I might need...
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I'm with @amnesia Hesco L210 + carrier of choice. I'd add that getting a set of LVL4 plates and another carrier isn't a bad idea either. Use the L210s for training and preserve your knees and back.

As for carriers, cheek out WTFidea, made in the US with berry compliant materials. He has a whole range of accessories that work with it.
www.wtfidea.com

Plate Carrier 13 for SAPI, 10x12, Hesco 3810, L210 RMA 1091 1092 1093 1094 RMA 1155, Hoplite, and more

Plate Carrier 13 for SAPI, 10x12, Hesco 3810, L210 RMA 1091 1092 1093 1094 RMA 1155, Hoplite, and more
www.wtfidea.com www.wtfidea.com

Grab these as well, stick 3 mags in the panel and the contents of an IFAK in the pouch and you are good to go. All for about $200
www.wtfidea.com

Accessory Panel 38 Insert Compatible

Accessory Panel 38 Insert Compatible
www.wtfidea.com www.wtfidea.com
www.wtfidea.com

Insert 01 556 M4 T15 for WTF, Ferro Concepts, Spiritus Systems

Insert 01 556 M4 T15 for WTF, Ferro Concepts, Spiritus Systems
www.wtfidea.com www.wtfidea.com
 
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surrealone said:
Those don't appear to be flexible. I'm not sold on flexible armor (i.e. it's not necessarily a must-have), but I'd think it'd be preferable from a comfort standpoint?



I'm after level III or so-called level III+.
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Soft armor/inserts is the way to go. Think about most likely threat (pistol, not rifle), and go from there. Think about it from a probability matrix: sure, everyone wants the level 10 unobtanium super-light plates, but they do expire, and the probability of being on the business end of a high velocity weapon is almost 0.

Besides, they are SO much more comfortable than plates. Anyhoo, just my opinion.
 
Chuckman said:
Soft armor/inserts is the way to go. Think about most likely threat (pistol, not rifle), and go from there. Think about it from a probability matrix: sure, everyone wants the level 10 unobtanium super-light plates, but they do expire, and the probability of being on the business end of a high velocity weapon is almost 0.

Besides, they are SO much more comfortable than plates. Anyhoo, just my opinion.
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That's just it -- where I live, the probability in a SHTF scenario of being on the business end of a high velocity weapon is high -- since I'm surrounded by ruralites with big game hunting weapons who know how to use them. Keep in mind, this is for a 'bug-in' application where I'm forced to either protect my beans, surrender them, or abandon them.
 
surrealone said:
That's just it -- where I live, the probability in a SHTF scenario of being on the business end of a high velocity weapon is high -- since I'm surrounded by ruralites with big game hunting weapons who know how to use them. Keep in mind, this is for a 'bug-in' application where I'm forced to either protect my beans, surrender them, or abandon them.
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High? How high?? But if it's high enough, just do the cry-once-buy-once for higher-end level IV.
 
Goofyfoot2001 said:
The fiberglass stuff I'm making is as good. After putting two 9mm in a panel at 3ft and it not even making a dent, I see zero reason to spend more than $60 on two panels and another $30 on a vest. The chances you'll need it are slim to none. You would have money left over for another pistola.

You can poo poo the home baked protection but the proof is in the pudding. No spalding either.
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@Goofyfoot2001 I know this an old post but I'd like to know more about this.
 
@CiZmatic4 has a set of hesco's he will sell you. He hasnt listed them yet but I have hesco's in all of mine.
 
amnesia said:
@CiZmatic4 has a set of hesco's he will sell you. He hasnt listed them yet but I have hesco's in all of mine.
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yessir! as for what I run:

-lvl3a soft armor in a laptop sleeve of a backpack - super lightweight, for travel and to have always on hand in car, at coffee shops, etc etc.
-Hesco L210's - in a 'slick' PC (Trex Arms) - Lightweight, low profile, ranger green instead of MC for a little more 'grey man'.
-Lvl4 Highcoms + 6x6 Side plates - Spiritus Carrier - Full on LARP mode (and if you want to compete in the tactical games your PC must weigh 15lbs slick)
 
CiZmatic4 said:
-Lvl4 Highcoms + 6x6 Side plates - Spiritus Carrier - Full on LARP mode (and if you want to compete in the tactical games your PC must weigh 15lbs slick)
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When you say "slick", do you mean PC and plates/armor only, no attachments? I would assume so; my only other guess for slick is PC with no armor and no attachments.
 
Chuckman said:
High? How high?? But if it's high enough, just do the cry-once-buy-once for higher-end level IV.
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High-caliber (if you consider .308 and 30.06 'high-caliber') long guns are as common in my neck of the woods as illegal pistols are among Chicago gang members -- so that high in a given SHTF scenario. This is deep red territory where most people own long guns and growing up with them is part of 'normal' life. Thus, if someone local comes for my beans in a 'bug-in' scenario, they're most likely to be sporting a big game rifle unless they somehow made it this way north of RTP or the Triad with nothing but pistols.

Level IV has much higher cost and weight ... and is likely beyond what is reasonable. Heck, I'm going to have to train with and get used to III or III+, and I know it.
 
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Chuckman said:
When you say "slick", do you mean PC and plates/armor only, no attachments? I would assume so; my only other guess for slick is PC with no armor and no attachments.
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sorry - nothing that could be removed after weigh ins. IE: mags, radios, other attachments. Essentially PC, armor, empty front panel.
 
I train in RMA Defense Level IV multi curve, but if you're looking for just equipment use as designed, I'd recommend a high end Level III+ multi curve. RMA has good options for the price but the trade off is thickness.
 
For what it’s worth I own a Safe Life Defense vest in level IIIa+ with rifle plates and also ordered their backpack plate also for added rear protection. Yes I’ll probably never need it but if I do when the SHTF (and it will at some point) then I’ve got it!👍
 
I picked a USGI PASGT vest of the later variety than the type I was issued on active duty over the weekend, and let me tell you how they have changed since my time wearing them.
This thing has the usual Kevlar soft plates, front and back, but also two Level III tomb stones.
I wore an IOTV when I was in the Guard that didn't seem as heavy as this monster, and at the moment, it's still CLEAN, nothing has been added to make it like it'd be if it was in use.
Granted, it'll be carried in my truck, but im seriously looking into lightweight setups at this point.
 
I happened to run into a local company, not far from me, a couple of weeks ago. I need to go visit them to check them out and see if I can get us a club discount. Seeing this thread reminded me and is now a motivator. Especially, seeing that the powers that be are trying to ban body armor too. I'll keep everyone posted.

@surrealone, from what you describe, I feel you are better served by focusing on establishing a strong perimeter and defensible layout of your property as not to allow for shots that you have to absorb with body armor. This means, establishing a defense perimeter far from the house and creating lanes of fire to your advantage.

Just sayin'
 
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georgel said:
I happened to run into a local company, not far from me, a couple of weeks ago. I need to go visit them to check them out and see if I can get us a club discount. Seeing this thread reminded me and is now a motivator. Especially, seeing that the powers that be are trying to ban body armor too. I'll keep everyone posted.

@surrealone, from what you describe, I feel you are better served by focusing on establishing a strong perimeter and defensible layout of your property as not to allow for shots that you have to absorb with body armor. This means, establishing a defense perimeter far from the house and creating lanes of fire to your advantage.

Just sayin'
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I have a few different carriers you can try
 
Ok, someone has to chime in with a kinda dumb question so here I am. Any opinions on colors? I was thinking gray or black. Any reason to go all camo or other military looking color? Other than me hiding in the woods up at the cabin. Here is Apex camo seems like it would stand out.
 
georgel said:
@surrealone, from what you describe, I feel you are better served by focusing on establishing a strong perimeter and defensible layout of your property as not to allow for shots that you have to absorb with body armor. This means, establishing a defense perimeter far from the house and creating lanes of fire to your advantage.

Just sayin'
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I'd be very interested in the design process of something like this. Can you point me in the right direction?
 
Ok, you jerks got me to spend some money. I have a large friend that might need a carrier and plates. He’s about 6’1” and maybe a barrel chested 325 lbs. Any specific direction for that body type?
 
My current set up is HESCO L210 Special Threat plates in a Crye JPC2.0. I have added an admin and other pouches.

I have a JPC 1 that is a backup that I will get another set of L210s for my wife.

I'll be putting together a rig with Level4 plates soon most likely in a Spiritus Systems carrier.

I've run and borrowed the Safelife soft armor in a few situations. It's great for 'concealed' protection as it's rated for stab and slash as well as pistol calibers. You will need to dress to conceal it. A jacket and a scarf work well if in the fall or winter. If not, people will know you're wearing something.

I've trained and worn both hard plates and soft armor quite a bit. No armor is full proof, as I'm sure you all know, but realizing what will work for you in the situation you're in is key. None of them are comfortable over long periods of time, but they ain't that bad either, as long as you get them dialed in.

I will say that no matter what you choose to buy, train in it, in different weather, different load outs, and be ready to change things up from what you think you'll need/want. I know i've changed my rig up, and it keeps evolving.

In the summer it's all hot and so a combat shirt works really well with a PC. Obviously stay away from steel plates, no matter the coating, and save up for the good stuff from well known companies. I hope this helps!
 
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