What are the Different Levels of Body Armor: NIJ Protection Levels
There are a range of different levels of protective body armor. Each plate, or vest, is designed for a different purpose. To decide which level of body armor you require, you must understand each level. The NIJ levels of protection are a standard set to define what each level of body armor is designed to stop. By following NIJ standards, and equipping yourself with NIJ standard gear, you can ensure you are using the correct armor in the right circumstances. In this comprehensive guide from the body armor manufacturers at Sarkar Tactical, we explain each level of body armor. This will help you decide which one you require, or just understand the various protection levels. Table of Contents National Institute of Justice Protection Levels (NIJ) NIJ Level IIA NIJ Level II NIJ Level IIIA NIJ Level III NIJ Level IV Body Armor Levels Chart Conclusion: The Different Levels of Body Armor Find NIJ Level Certified Armor at Sarkar Tactical National Institute of Justice Protection Levels (NIJ) The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) is an agency within the U.S. Department of Justice. It is dedicated to advancing scientific research, development, and evaluation in the field of criminal justice. One critical aspect of their work is the establishment of standards for body armor or ballistic-resistant vests used by militaries and police. NIJ Protection Levels are a standardized framework. These levels categorize body armor based on its ability to provide protection against various ballistics. These protection levels are crucial in determining the specific capabilities and intended use of different types of body armor. Levelled body armor is generally used in plate carriers or bulletproof vests. Find out more about what a plate carrier is, how to set up a plate carrier, or what bulletproof vests are made of. SARKAR DELTA 3 This lightweight 10” x 12” Level III plate reduces spall and has a multi-curved shape to fit the body comfortably… Know More Sarkar Delta 3 Special Threat The Sarkar Delta 3 plate is designed to meet the complete requirements of NIJ level III. This Dyneema® plate… Know More Sarkar Ranger 180 Side Plate This single-curve 6” x 6” Side Plate has been independently tested to defeat the 7.62 x 63mm AP round… Know More SARKAR RANGER SCOUT This high performing 10” x 12” Type III/IV plate remains our most economical and popular offering… Know More SARKAR RANGER SOLO This high performing 10” x 12” Type IV plate offers the most comprehensive stand alone protection from Level… Know More SARKAR WARRIOR ELITE This 10” x 12” plate is our ultra-light NIJ Level IV insert and utilises a Hot Pressed Boron Carbide/Dyneema… Know More NIJ Level IIA Soft, Concealable NIJ Level IIA body armor is designed to mitigate the impact of certain handgun ammunition. It can provide defense against lower-velocity ammunition commonly found in typical handgun calibers. While NIJ Level IIA offers protection against various handgun rounds, it’s important to note that it might not provide defense against higher-velocity or larger-caliber firearms. What Does Level IIA Protect Against? Level IIA can provide protection against handgun rounds, such as: 9mm FMJ (Full Metal Jacket) rounds .40 Smith & Wesson FMJ rounds .45 ACP FMJ rounds NIJ Level II (NIJ HG1) Soft, Concealable NIJ Level II body armor provides increased defense against a wider range of handgun threats compared to Level IIA. It can offer protection against various low-velocity handgun rounds. Similarly to Level II body armor, this is also still relatively flexible and lightweight. This means it can be easily concealed. What Does Level II Protect Against? Level II can provide protection against rounds such as: 9mm FMJ rounds .357 Magnum JSP rounds .40 Smith & Wesson FMJ rounds .45 ACP FMJ rounds NIJ Level IIIA (NIJ HG2) Soft, All-round, Concealable NIJ Level IIIA body armor provides protection against a wider spectrum of ballistic threats compared to IIA and II. It effectively defends against various handgun ammunition. Additionally, NIJ Level IIIA body armor offers protection against blunt trauma from impacts. This reduces the risk of injury from blows or falls. What Does Level IIIA Protect Against? This level is designed to resist: 9mm FMJ rounds .357 SIG FMJ FN rounds .44 Magnum SJHP rounds NIJ Level III (NIJ RF1) Hard, Rifle Defense NIJ Level III body armor defends against rifle rounds and high-velocity ammunition. This is a broad spectrum of ballistic threats that lower levels can protect against. NIJ Level III body armor provides wearers with crucial protection against higher-velocity ballistic threats that surpass handgun ammunition. What Does Level III Protect Against? Level III body armor can protect against: 7.62mm FMJ rounds 5.56mm NATO FMJ rounds .308 Winchester FMJ rounds NIJ Level IV (NIJ RF3) Hard, High Velocity Rifle Defense NIJ Level IV represents the highest level within the NIJ standards for body armor. It provides maximum protection against the most potent ballistic threats. NIJ Level IV body armor is engineered to withstand high-powered rifle ammunition and armor-piercing rounds. What Does Level IV Protect Against? This level offers protection against: .30-06 M2AP rounds 7.62mm NATO AP rounds .300 Winchester Magnum AP rounds Body Armor Levels Chart Here is the current body armor levels chart from the NIJ: Threat Level Table Former Threat Level New Threat Level Notes NIJ Level II NIJ HG1 HG = handgun NIJ Level IIIA NIJ HG2 NIJ Level III NIJ RF1 RF = rifle NIJ RF2 NIJ RF2 is a new intermediate rifle protection level that includes all the threats at the NIJ RF1 protection level plus an additional threat NIJ Level IV NIJ RF3 Conclusion: The Different Levels of Body Armor The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Protection Levels delineate a crucial hierarchy of defense against ballistic threats. From the foundational protection of Level IIA, up to Level IV, each level has different protective capabilities. Understanding these levels is not just about the technical specifications of body armor. It’s about making informed decisions that could potentially safeguard lives in combat situations. Find NIJ Level Certified Armor at Sarkar
What are Bulletproof Vests Made Of?
Throughout recent history, there have been continuous technological advancements made to the science behind protective armor. People who work in the police force, security details, the military, and special forces all understand the critical importance of wearing professional gear. It can be a determining factor in the safety and well-being of many individuals in the field. But, what are bulletproof vests made of? In this article from the experts at Sarkar Tactical, we will look in detail at the composition of bulletproof vests and their ability to withstand high-velocity projectiles. Discovering what materials make up these vests, and how they absorb the force of a ballistic round, preventing penetration to the body, is key to understanding their effectiveness. Table of Contents What Materials are Bulletproof Vests Made of? Ballistic Bulletproof Vest Designs NIJ: The Five Levels of Ballistic Protection Ballistic Material Glossary Conclusion FAQs What Materials are Bulletproof Vests Made of? Bulletproof vests, also known as ballistic vests or body armor, are typically made from vest-shaped panels of advanced plastic polymer, composed of numerous layers of high-strength ballistic material. Most commonly this is Kevlar, Polyethylene (PE), Spectra Shield, Twaron, Dyneema, Steel, or Ceramic. Kevlar is often the preferred choice of material for bulletproof vests due to its high impact resistance, strength, durability, and low weight. These characteristics make it the ideal choice for bulletproof vests in comparison to potential alternatives. The Different Layers of Protection There are three main layers of protection which make up the composition of a bulletproof vest: Ballistic Material The layers of woven Kevlar vest are skillfully sewn together using Kevlar thread, ensuring the robustness and strength of the garment’s structure. Other non-woven materials that are used, such as Spectra Shield, undergo a polymer coating process, where resins such as Kraton help to strengthen the fibers before they are sealed between two layers of PE. Outer Shell The ballistic panels provide the majority of the all-important protection, however, the garment still needs to be comfortable to wear. To ensure this, the panels are placed within an abrasion-resistant polyester/cotton blend, or nylon fabric shell. Some bulletproof vests are fitted with additional built-in pouches designed to hold hard armor plates as part of the outer shell. These help to keep personnel safe in even the most dangerous environments, providing extra protection from ballistic threats, stabs and spikes, and more. Trauma Reduction Layer The inside of the shell is fitted with a shock absorbing material, as well as additional nylon padding to provide additional protection from trauma. This includes damage from blunt-force objects, as well as motor vehicle collisions. Ballistic Bulletproof Vest Designs COVERT TACTICAL VEST The Sarkar Covert Tactical Vest (CTV) can be worn discreetly under clothing to provide low profile concealed… Know More OVERT PATROL VEST Overt Patrol Vest is designed for Law Enforcement, Prison and Security Officers who need functional… Know More Sarkar Falcon ATV The Sarkar Advanced Tactical Vest (ATV) is a battle-ready high-speed vest system designed exclusively for direct combat… Know More SARKAR BALLISTIC FLOATATION VEST 110 The SARKAR BFV110, combines the ballistic qualities of a Tactical Vest with the safety and buoyancy… Know More SARKAR GENERAL PURPOSE VEST The Sarkar Tactical General Purpose Vest (GPV) is the preferred armor vest of Armed Forces and Police… Know More SARKAR PRESS VEST Instead of trying to adapt an existing model, we went back to the drawing board and designed this vest… Know More NIJ: The Five Levels of Ballistic Protection Whilst the majority of bulletproof vests follow the same fundamental design as described above, the choice of material can massively impact the effectiveness of the armor in certain scenarios. One of the main ways you can categorize bulletproof vests is by their level of protection. The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) has established a standardized classification system that categorizes these vests into five levels of protection (IIA, II, IIIA, III, IV) based on their ability to withstand ballistic impact, and the type of ammunition the armor can resist against. This classification ensures that users can make informed decisions about the level of protection required for their specific needs. The “A” in the levels “IIA” and “IIIA” indicate that the ballistic vest is stronger and more effective than the level below, but it doesn’t meet the requirements to be classified as the level above. An easy way to think of the “A” is as a half. For example, Level IIA = Level 1.5. Read our full guide to the different levels of body armor. Level IIA Resistant against: Low-velocity 9mm and .40 rounds. Suitable for: Covert operations, and concealed carry scenarios. Description: Very discreet and lightweight. Level II Resistant against: Higher-velocity 9mm and .367 Magnum rounds. Suitable for: Police officers and security teams facing handgun threats in their line of duty. Description: Lightweight and comfortable. Level IIIA Resistant against: Powerful handgun ammunition, including .44 Magnum rounds. Suitable for: Police and law enforcement teams who frequently operate in high-risk environments. Description: Designed to be flexible and comfortable despite a higher level of protection. Level III Resistant against: Intermediate caliber rounds from rifles, such as 7.62mm rounds. Suitable for: Professionals working in environments where rifle threats are present. Description: Increased ballistic protection comes at a cost of additional weight. Whilst still comfortable, users must balance protection and mobility based on their specific requirements. Level IV Resistant against: Armor-piercing rifle rounds. Suitable for: At the highest level of ballistic protection, these vests are reserved for personnel working in the highest-risk scenarios, such as military situations or tactical operations. Description: These are examples of the heaviest bulletproof vests on the market, but they offer the greatest protection by far. Ballistic Material Glossary As we’ve learned, ballistic material is the main element of bulletproof vests which is responsible for protecting the wearer from projectiles. Below is a description of each material and their unique characteristics: Kevlar Kevlar is a synthetic fiber with exceptional tensile strength. Its remarkable toughness and resistance to impact make it a popular choice for many ballistic
How to set up a Plate Carrier: Step-by-step set up Guide
Setting up a plate carrier properly is crucial to ensuring the users’ safety. Plate carriers must also be set up in a way where weight is distributed evenly throughout the torso, while also retaining access to high priority equipment. In this comprehensive guide from Sarkar Tactical, we run through how to set up a plate carrier step-by-step. Using this information, you will be able to: position your plate carrier correctly on your body, select the correct armor level, attach the correct equipment for each operational need, and learn where this equipment should be positioned. Table of Contents Setting up Your Plate Carrier Where Should a Plate Carrier Sit on Your Body Choosing the Correct Armor Level What Equipment Should be Attached to Your Plate Carrier Where Should you Position Important Equipment How Should you Prioritize Equipment for Certain Operations? How to set up a Plate Carrier: Final Thoughts FAQs Setting up Your Plate Carrier When setting up a plate carrier, you need to ensure you have access to vital equipment. You must also have the correct armor level insert and a safe weight distribution. Your plate carrier should be more than just a piece of gear. It should be a customized, well-prepared system, designed to support your specific needs. Setting up your plate carrier consists of attaching the correct equipment in the correct places, making sure the carrier fits right, and inserting the selected armor plates into the front, back, and potentially the sides. Where Should a Plate Carrier Sit on Your Body Fitting a plate carrier to your body is not only a matter of safety, but also, to ensure comfort. This leads to protection against ballistics and longevity throughout operations. Read our full guide to plate carriers. There are a number of considerations to ensure that your plate carrier is correctly positioned: Chest and Torso Height The top edge of the front plate should sit at approximately mid-chest level. This placement ensures that your heart, lungs, and other vital organs are adequately covered, offering essential protection in high-risk situations. Maintain proper alignment by ensuring that the rear plate on your back sits at the same height as the front plate on your chest. This balanced placement ensures that you’re shielded evenly from front to back. Shoulder Straps The shoulder straps of your plate carrier play a critical role in ensuring comfort and stability while wearing this essential piece of tactical gear. Properly adjusted shoulder straps are key to your overall well-being and operational effectiveness. The shoulder straps are responsible for distributing the weight of your plate carrier and its contents evenly across your shoulders. Adjust them so that the weight is balanced, preventing any undue stress on one side. Front and Rear Plates The front and rear plates in your plate carrier are your primary lines of defense against potential threats. Your front plate is your shield against incoming fire and should be positioned at your mid-chest level to safeguard your heart and vital organs. The rear plate, located on your back, should align vertically with the front plate, ensuring comprehensive protection. These plates should conform to the natural curves of your body. Proper positioning not only enhances safety but also allows for unrestricted movement, so you can perform tasks effectively in high-pressure situations. Remember, the front and rear plates are the core of your armor, so it’s imperative to get their positioning right. Freedom of Movement Ensuring freedom of movement while wearing a plate carrier is paramount to your effectiveness and safety. Your plate carrier should allow you to move your arms, shoulders, and torso without hindrance. Ensure that the gear doesn’t restrict your natural range of motion, enabling you to perform tasks, raise your weapon, or take cover seamlessly. Avoid overloading your plate carrier with excessive gear that can limit your ability to move swiftly and respond to dynamic situations. Test your plate carrier’s setup by simulating movements you might perform in your intended scenarios. This includes crouching, running, kneeling, and weapon handling. Side Protection (Optional) Side plates can provide protection for your flanks, which can be vulnerable in certain scenarios. Position them in the dedicated pockets on your plate carrier, ensuring they cover your sides from the armpit area down to the waist. While adding side plates for extra protection, be mindful of maintaining balance and comfort. Adjust the side plates to conform to the natural contours of your body without restricting your ability to move or access essential gear. Choosing the Correct Armor Level When looking at ballistic plate inserts, you need to make sure you have the correct armor level for the operation at hand. The plates that you equip in your career need to be tested and verified to exceed the ballistic resistance as specified under NIJ Standard. Learn about the different levels of body armor. Although there are a wide range of plate levels, plate carriers tend to be loaded with level III, to level IV plates: Level III Plates Level III plates are the first plate in the level scale designed to stop rifle rounds. These plates usually weight around 3 lbs, and are curved to fit the body comfortably. They are made using either polyethylene, steel, or ceramic material. They are generally made to be more lightweight, but may be more brittle than higher level plates. Level III/IV Plates Level III/IV plates are hard armor plates, designed to withstand rifle rounds, and higher caliber armor piercing rounds (NIJ-06 Type III and Type IV). They are made using ceramic or steel material, and cut with rectangular clipped corners. Level IV Plates Level IV ballistic plates offer comprehensive protection from NIJ Level 4 projectiles. Ceramic materials are the most common materials for level 4 plates. Level IV plates are generally heavier than level III’s, but offer protection against higher caliber rounds. Other Types of Ballistic Plates There are further armor levels beyond III-IV. There is also IIA and II, which are designed to stop small arms fire. Ballistic side plates
The Full Guide to Plate Carriers
Plate carriers are a type of tactical vest with a protective insert that allows for the insertion of ballistic plates. They serve the same purpose as a traditional bulletproof vest, however, plate carriers are generally much lighter than a ballistic vest. This is due to the option for customisable body coverage. Plate carriers have become popular in recent years. They are utilized by modern-day militaries, alongside special forces operators and armed response units. In this article from the body armor experts at Sarkar Tactical, we analyze the components of a plate carrier, why they are used and which plates are used with them. Table of Contents Components of a Plate Carrier The Different Plates Used in Plate Carriers Why is the use of Plate Carriers Popular? How Should a Plate Carrier Fit? What Accessories may Professionals Attach to Plate Carriers? Conclusion: The Role of Plate Carriers in Personal Protection Plate Carriers at Sarkar Tactical Components of a Plate Carrier A plate carrier is a specialized vest designed to hold ballistic plates. These plates are often made from materials like ceramic, steel, or composite materials. They are designed to stop bullets and other ballistic threats in their tracks. There are several other components that make up a plate carrier: Front Panel The front panel of a plate carrier is the central part of the vest that houses the primary ballistic plate. It is strategically positioned to protect vital organs, such as the heart and lungs. Back Panel The back panel typically holds another ballistic plate to provide complete front and back protection. Shoulder Straps These straps are worn over the shoulders and play a crucial role in evenly distributing the weight of the plate carrier. Proper adjustment ensures comfort and stability during use. MOLLE System The MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) system consists of webbing and loops on the plate carrier. It allows you to attach various pouches and accessories for customization and convenience. The Different Plates Used in Plate Carriers Ballistic plates are the bulwark against ballistic threats and play a significant role in personal safety. Understanding the different types of plates used in plate carriers is essential to make the right decisions about your protective gear. Learn about the different levels of body armor used in plate carriers. There are primarily two categories of plates commonly used in plate carriers: Soft Armor Plates Soft armor plates are often made from materials like Kevlar or Dyneema. They are designed to provide protection against pistol rounds, fragmentation, and other low-velocity threats. These plates are relatively lightweight and flexible. This can make them suitable for situations where agility and mobility are required. Soft armor plates are effective at absorbing and dispersing the energy from incoming projectiles. This can lead to a reduced risk of injury. They are commonly used by police officers and security personnel. Hard Armor Plates Hard armor plates are constructed from rigid materials such as ceramic, steel, or composite materials. These plates are engineered to stop high-velocity rifle rounds. They offer a higher level of protection than soft armor plates. They are heavier and less flexible but provide defense against higher velocity ballistics. Composite Plates Composite plates combine different materials to offer a balance between weight and protection. They are often designed to be lighter than steel while still providing the required stopping power. Steel Plates Steel plates are known for their durability and resilience. They can withstand multiple hits without losing their protective capabilities. They tend to be heavier than ceramic alternatives. Ceramic Plates Ceramic plates are used due to their ability to shatter incoming projectiles upon impact. This is done by dispersing the energy and preventing penetration. They are relatively lightweight compared to steel plates. They are a preferred choice for many professionals. Why is the use of Plate Carriers Popular? Plate carriers have become more widely used in militaries. The surge in demand can be attributed to several factors. Plate carriers provide effective ballistic protection. They are reliable against a wide range of threats, including pistol rounds and high-velocity rifle rounds. Plate carriers also allow for easy customization. They feature MOLLE webbing and attachment points, which allow professionals to tailor their equipment to the needs of any operation. Modern plate carriers have also been engineered with mobility and ergonomics as a key focus. They distribute the weight of the armor evenly. This reduces the strain on the wearer. Adjustable straps and padding also enhance comfort. Plate carriers are versatile armor systems that can accommodate various types of plates. This versatility allows users to adapt their level of protection based on the perceived threat level. How Should a Plate Carrier fit? A correctly fitted plate carrier is important for comfort and keeping you safe. It’s essential to start by selecting the appropriate size based on the manufacturer’s sizing chart. The front and back panels should provide comprehensive coverage of your chest, upper back, heart, lungs, and spine while maintaining a snug fit. The shoulder straps should rest comfortably on your shoulders without causing discomfort or digging into your skin. Ensure they’re of equal length to keep the plate carrier level on your torso. The cummerbund should be adjusted to fit securely without excessive tightness. Test your range of motion. Make sure you can move freely, bend, and lift your arms without the carrier riding up. Assess whether the carrier allows for comfortable and unrestricted breathing. It’s crucial that the ballistic plates within the carrier are correctly positioned to cover vital organs. Learn how to set up a plate carrier correctly. What Accessories may Professionals Attach to Plate Carriers? The specific accessories attached to a plate carrier can vary depending on the profession, mission, and personal preferences of the user. Below are some accessories you may generally find attached to a plate carrier: Magazine Pouches: These pouches securely hold extra ammunition magazines. They ensure quick and easy access during firearm engagements. Medical Kits: Medical pouches or Individual First Aid Kits carry essential medical supplies. They include bandages,
What is Tactical Gear?
Tactical gear refers to specialized equipment and clothing designed to enhance performance and increase safety in combat situations. From bulletproof vests to night vision goggles, tactical gear encompasses an array of tools that enable individuals to navigate challenging environments. This essential gear plays a critical role in ensuring the success of operations due to its functionality. In this article from Sarkar Tactical, we take a look at the different types of tactical gear, its purpose and the various uses. Table of Contents What Does Modern Tactical Gear Look Like? Modern tactical gear looks vastly different from what it used to be. Today’s tactical gear is designed to be protective yet lightweight. One noticeable change is the emphasis on lightweight materials. Manufacturers have adopted advanced fabrics like ripstop nylon and Cordura, which offer durability and mobility. Additionally, modern tactical gear now includes a multitude of tech-integrated features. From MOLLE webbing systems to accommodate various attachments to built-in hydration packs, every aspect of a modern tactical loadout aims to enhance efficiency on the field. Moreover, customization has become a key aspect as users often seek equipment tailored to their specific requirements. This includes modular options that allow easy attachment or detachment of pouches and accessories based on mission requirements. Typical Tactical Gear Ensemble While the specific ensemble may vary depending on the purpose and scenario, there are some common pieces of equipment that form the backbone of tactical gear ensembles. Find out more about protective armor. Ballistic Helmet A ballistic helmet is a crucial piece of protective equipment. Designed to shield the head from projectile and fragmentation threats, these helmets are constructed using materials like Kevlar or high-density polyethylene. Their primary purpose is to provide reliable protection against bullets and shrapnel fragments. Plate Carrier A plate carrier is a lightweight vest that allows the insertion of ballistic plates. Today’s models strike a delicate balance between protection, weight distribution, and customization options. The exterior build of a plate carrier allows for equipment to be easily attached, and the ballistic plate protects against ballistic threats such as bullets and shrapnel. Learn more: What is a plate carrier How to set up a plate carrier Tactical Gloves Designed to be durable, tactical gloves are an essential tool for military personnel, police officers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone seeking enhanced hand protection. From heavy-duty knuckle padding for impact resistance to reinforced palm areas for added grip, these gloves provide optimal dexterity. Additionally, many models feature touchscreen compatibility, allowing users to operate their devices without removing the gloves. Backpack Tactical backpacks can be used to traverse through rugged terrain or just simply during every day commuting. These packs are built to withstand the harshest conditions. With multiple compartments, pockets, and MOLLE webbing systems, these bags provide plenty of storage. From secure compartments for electronics to dedicated spaces for hydration bladders and medical supplies, everything has its place in a tactically designed bag. Belts and Holsters Tactical belts and holsters are essential accessories for anyone engaged in tactical or outdoor activities. These items serve as reliable tools that provide quick access to important equipment such as firearms, knives, flashlights, and other essentials. One key aspect of tactical belts is their ability to distribute the weight of your gear evenly across your waist. This can help reduce fatigue and allow for comfortable movement during long operations. Holsters are designed to securely hold your firearm while keeping it easily accessible when needed. They come in various styles, including paddle holsters, belt holsters, thigh holsters, and shoulder holsters. Along with ensuring weapon retention and accessibility, a good holster should also be comfortable enough for all-day wear without impeding mobility. Accessories Examples of tactical accessories could be anything from watches to night vision goggles. Tactical timepieces often come equipped with features such as GPS tracking, altimeters, barometers, and compasses to aid in navigation during missions. Additionally, many models incorporate scratch-resistant glass and water-resistant capabilities. Night vision has revolutionized the way missions are conducted in low-light or complete darkness scenarios. Night vision devices amplify even the slightest amount of available light to provide clear imagery in real-time. They have become indispensable for covert operations and offer significant advantages in surveillance, search-and-rescue missions, and combat situations where visibility is limited. Protective Armor at Sarkar Tactical There’s no room for compromise when it comes to tactical gear. Prepare yourself with the industry’s most exceptional protective gear. At Sarkar Tactical, we design specialized, professional body armor and tactical gear that fulfills the requirements of military personnel and special forces. Join the ranks who trust Sarkar Tactical to protect them in the most challenging environments. Contact us for more information, or view our full guide to protective armor to learn more from our expert team. Related Articles What are Bulletproof Vests Made of? How to set up a Plate Carrier What is a Plate Carrier? The Different Levels of Body Armor The Full Guide to Protective Armor
Our Full Guide to Protective Armor
The importance of advanced protective gear cannot be overstated. For military personnel and special forces operating in high-risk environments, having reliable body armor and protective equipment can make all the difference between safety and injury. At Sarkar Tactical, we understand the critical nature of dangerous environments. We take great pride in crafting bespoke, premium, and technical protective armor. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the intricacies of protective armor. From the different types and uses they have, to the technologies that shape its development today. Table of Contents What are the Different Types of Protective Armor Used? There are a lot of different types of protective armor available and used by different militaries. From plate carriers to ballistic vests, each piece of armor is used for different purposes. Below, we take a look at the main types of modern protective armor used in military and security operations: Plate Carriers Plate carriers play a pivotal role in safeguarding military personnel. They offer a versatile solution for confronting ballistic threats effectively. Purpose and Design: Their primary purpose is to hold and secure ballistic plates, which offer added protection against ballistic threats, such as bullets and projectiles. These carriers are engineered to distribute the weight of the plates evenly across the wearer’s torso, ensuring comfort and mobility during operations. Plate carriers are characterized by their modular design, featuring webbing, MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment), or PALS (Pouch Attachment Ladder System) loops, allowing users to attach various accessories, pouches, and equipment as needed. This versatility enables personnel to tailor their loadout according to the specific requirements of each operation. Plate carriers are an indispensable part of any tactical ensemble. When They Are Used: Plate carriers are commonly used in a variety of military operations where the risk of ballistic threats is high. These include, but are not limited to: Popularity and Advantages: Plate carriers have gained immense popularity due to several key advantages they offer. They are customizable, allowing users to configure a specific loadout to the needs of an operation. As they hold ballistic plates, plate carriers provide an efficient level of ballistic protection. As plate carriers are also designed to maintain the wearer’s freedom of movement, they are often chosen for operations due to the ease of movement they offer. Learn more: What is a plate carrier How to set up a plate carrier Ballistic Vests Ballistic vests, commonly known as bulletproof vests, stand as a critical line of defense against a wide array of ballistic threats faced by military personnel, police officers, and security professionals. Purpose and Design: The primary purpose of ballistic vests is to absorb and dissipate the energy from projectiles, such as bullets and shrapnel. They are designed to provide protection to vital areas of the body, including the chest, back, and sometimes the sides. Ballistic vests typically consist of multiple layers of strong and flexible materials, such as Kevlar. These layers work in tandem to slow down and deform projectiles. They dissipate kinetic energy and prevent them from penetrating the wearer’s body. When They Are Used: Ballistic vests are deployed in a variety of scenarios where there is a risk of ballistic threats, including: Popularity and Advantages: Ballistic vests have become widely adopted due to their numerous advantages. These vests offer adaptable protection, making them suitable for a range of scenarios. Ballistic vests are generally considered lightweight compared to some armor options. Some ballistic vests can also be worn covertly, making them ideal for undercover police officers. Find out more about what ballistic vests are made out of. Patrol Vests Patrol vests serve as an indispensable layer of protection. They are worn by police officers, security personnel, and others facing the potential risk of edged weapon attacks. Purpose and Design: Patrol vests are a specialized type of protective gear. They are designed to defend against puncture and slashing attacks from edged weapons such as knives, blades, and other sharp objects. Patrol vests are constructed with a unique combination of materials designed to resist and disperse the force of a stabbing motion, significantly reducing the risk of injury. The key feature of patrol vests is the use of multiple layers of tough, puncture-resistant materials, such as laminated Kevlar or other high-strength fabrics. These layers are strategically arranged to withstand penetration and distribute the force of a stabbing motion across a wider area. This can minimize the chance of critical injury. When They Are Used: Patrol vests are essential protective gear in scenarios where encounters with edged weapons are a potential risk. Common roles where patrol vests are utilised include: Popularity and Advantages: Patrol vests have gained popularity due to their unique advantages in defending against edged threats. Patrol vests offer dedicated defence against puncture and slashing attacks, providing wearers with the confidence to confront close-quarters danger. They are also designed to be flexible and lightweight. Some stab vests are also discreetly designed for concealment underneath clothing. Ballistic Helmets Ballistic helmets are an integral part of protective gear. They are designed to provide paramount defense to the head. Purpose and Design: These helmets are engineered to shield wearers from ballistic threats. This includes bullets and low-velocity impacts, while maintaining optimal comfort and functionality. The design of ballistic helmets varies depending on the intended application, with a focus on lightweight construction without compromising on protective capabilities. Most ballistic helmets consist of a hard outer shell made from materials like aramid fibers or ballistic composites. The inner lining typically includes padding or suspension systems that absorb and disperse the impact force. This can help minimize trauma to the wearer’s head. When They Are Used: Ballistic helmets find application in a wide range of military and armed operations, where protection of the head is essential. These scenarios include: Popularity and Advantages: The popularity of ballistic helmets is driven by several key advantages. Ballistic helmets provide crucial protection to the head, safeguarding against ballistic threats. This can potentially be life-saving in dangerous situations. Advanced materials and design techniques have resulted in
SARKAR TACTICAL AT DSEI LONDON 2023
This year, Sarkar Tactical partnered with Reamda for the DSEI London exhibition 2023. With a bespoke stand and furniture, we curated an interactive and engaging stand, allowing visitors so hold and touch the equipment, whilst seeing both of the ROV’s on a terrain-like platform. DSEI was a massive success, where the Sarkar Staff had the pleasure of meeting new and existing clientele, government officials and similar companies within the industry. A highlight for the company was the participation of our Head of Engineering and Compliance , Matt Young, on the Made in Britain Innovation and Growth panel, discussing manufacturing in the defense sector. To read Forecast International’s article discussing the session, follow the link here Our first time exhibiting at DSEI has been productive and advantageous. We look forward to seeing you all in 2025. https://sarkartactical.com/uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Sarkar-Tactical-DSEI.mov
Partnership with Outreach Paramedics
At Sarkar Tactical, we understand the vital impact of our work and the lifesaving equipment we provide.
Jow’s Visit
We welcomed our friend Jow to our headquarters in Glasgow, all the way from Brazil.