Concealable body armor is a critical piece of protective equipment for law enforcement officers and others in high-risk professions. However, there have been instances where concealable armor has failed to provide adequate protection, resulting in injury or death. In this article, we'll explore some of the lessons learned from these failures and how they can inform the design and selection of better concealable armor solutions.
The Importance of Proper Fit
One of the most common causes of concealable armor failure is improper fit. If the armor does not fit snugly against the body, it can shift or gap during a critical incident, leaving vulnerable areas exposed.
Some key considerations for proper fit include:
- Measuring for the correct size using a professional fitting service
- Choosing a style that is compatible with your body type and work requirements
- Regularly inspecting the armor for signs of wear or damage that could compromise fit
Pivotal Body Armor offers a range of concealable armor options in various sizes and styles to ensure a proper fit for every wearer.
Material Degradation Over Time
Another potential point of failure for concealable armor is material degradation over time. The ballistic-resistant fibers used in soft armor can break down with exposure to heat, moisture, and other environmental factors, leading to decreased protection.
To mitigate this risk, it's important to:
- Store armor in a cool, dry place when not in use
- Follow manufacturer guidelines for cleaning and maintenance
- Replace armor at the recommended intervals based on age and wear
Investing in high-quality armor made with durable materials, like the options from Caliber Armor, can also help extend the usable life of your gear.
Penetration Vs. Backface Deformation
While concealable armor is designed to prevent penetration from ballistic threats, there is still a risk of serious injury from backface deformation. This occurs when the armor stops a bullet but the force of the impact causes the material to deform inward, potentially causing blunt force trauma.
Some factors that can influence backface deformation include:
- Armor level and threat rating
- Bullet caliber, weight, and velocity
- Distance between the wearer and the threat
Opting for a higher level of protection, like Level IIIA, and adding Trauma Pads can help minimize backface deformation injuries.
The Limitations of Soft Armor
It's critical to understand that even the best concealable soft armor has limitations in terms of the threats it can protect against. Most soft armor is rated to stop common handgun rounds but may not hold up against higher-powered rifles or armor-piercing ammunition.
For protection against rifle threats, wearers need to step up to hard armor plates. Pivotal Body Armor stocks a variety of plate carrier options that allow you to customize your protection level to your specific risk profile.
Proper Care and Maintenance
Neglecting to properly care for and maintain concealable armor can lead to avoidable failures. Abrasion, creasing, and improper cleaning can all degrade the ballistic performance of the vest over time.
| Care Tip | Reasoning |
|---|---|
| Follow manufacturer washing/drying instructions | Harsh detergents or high heat can break down fibers |
| Hang to dry & store armor flat | Creasing can weaken fiber strength in those areas |
| Don't leave armor in direct sunlight or a hot car | UV rays and heat exposure accelerates material breakdown |
Taking a proactive approach to armor care can help you get the longest useful life from your gear.
Field Repair Limitations
In the event that concealable armor does become compromised by a bullet or a blade, it's important to understand the limitations of field repairs. Applying a trauma plate or makeshift patch to the area may prevent additional rounds from penetrating but does not restore the original ballistic integrity of the armor.
If your vest sustains any damage, it needs to be sent back to the manufacturer for professional repair or replacement. Continuing to wear compromised armor puts you at serious risk.
Situational Awareness
While not directly related to gear failure, a lack of situational awareness is another common factor in instances where concealed armor did not adequately protect the wearer. Wearing body armor can provide a false sense of security, leading to lapses in judgement or risky behavior.
Remember:
- No armor is 100% bulletproof
- Armor does not make you invincible
- Appropriate threat assessment and de-escalation tactics are still critical
Viewing concealable armor as one component of a larger safety strategy, rather than a magic bullet, is key to improving personal protection.
Conclusion
Learning from past failures is essential for advancing concealable armor technology and best practices. By prioritizing proper fit, care, and maintenance, as well as being aware of the limitations of soft armor, wearers can maximize the protective benefits of their gear. Continued research and development by manufacturers, in close consultation with end users, will help drive further improvements to keep professionals safer on the job.