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BulletSafe has revolutionized the world of body armor with the new VP4 vest with Reinforced Lightweight Advanced Armor (RLA). Engineered to meet the demanding needs of high-speed operators, this soft shell bulletproof vest redefines personal safety by combining enhanced protection with mobility and unparalleled comfort.

The VP4 Vest with Integrated RLA Armor combines the best of both worlds: the mobility and comfort of the VP4 Vest with the formidable defense of RLA Armor. It's a game-changer, providing a comprehensive solution that prioritizes both safety and agility.

Crafted for optimal freedom of movement, the VP4 Vest features a superior cut and low-profile Velcro fastening system. Made from high-performance materials, it's built to withstand active use and offers front and rear plate pocket access, compatible with both RLA Armor and BulletSafe Level IV plates.

NIJ Certified to withstand impacts from pistol calibers up to .44 Magnum, RLA Armor delivers reliable defense against a wide range of ballistic threats. Its waterproof soft shell keeps users dry and comfortable in any weather, while its lightweight construction ensures all-day wear without fatigue.

Proudly crafted in the United States, the VP4 reflects BulletSafe's unwavering commitment to quality. With strategically angled and placed cuts around the shoulders, this armor enhances movement and provides operators with unmatched mobility during various activities, from driving to combat.

The VP4 is tailor-made for the tactical needs of armed professionals and individuals prioritizing personal safety. Its discreet yet effective protection makes it a versatile choice for those who demand mobility without compromising on ballistic defense.

At BulletSafe, we're dedicated to leading the industry with innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of high-speed operators. With the VP4, users can experience the perfect fusion of protection and mobility, setting a new standard in personal safety. Trust BulletSafe to keep you safe, wherever your mission takes you.

Click here to buy the VP4

Here at BulletSafe, we pride ourselves in being “NIJ certified,” and understanding what "NIJ certified" means is crucial for discerning consumers when they’re buying a piece of gear that could mean the difference between life and death. In essence, the term indicates a stamp of approval from the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), showing that the vests have been thoroughly tested and met certain standards. While many brands claim to meet these standards, not all have gone through the rigorous NIJ testing process.

While nearly all body armor sold in America is rated according to NIJ standards (Level IIIA, Level III, Level IV, etc.), not every company can claim their products are NIJ-certified. This means that the NIJ has not actually subjected these products to its rigorous testing, and at most, the merchant selling the product has done its own individual testing, which is frequently substandard.

Some manufacturers produce armor that meets the bulletproof ratings set by the NIJ but fail to meet the temperature or atmospheric requirements. In practice, this means that these non-NIJ vests or plates may be bulletproof fresh out of the box but may deteriorate when subjected to extreme heat, such as when they’re stored away in a car and constantly exposed to the extreme heat of a hot parking lot.

These NIJ-rated but not certified vests, due to their substandard manufacturing and testing methods, are usually much cheaper than true NIJ-certified armor, which makes them an attractive option for those who don’t want to spend the money on the “real deal.”

Thankfully, BulletSafe does not have a price point issue because of the materials it’s made of. BulletSafe vests are crafted from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene blended with aramid fibers, a ballistic blend discovered by our founder, Tom Nardone, while he was working for Sikorsky, designing bulletproof fuel tank liners for their helicopters.

Understanding the importance of NIJ certification underscores the significance of BulletSafe's commitment to rigorous testing procedures. While some brands may cut corners to offer cheaper alternatives, BulletSafe stands firm in its dedication to quality and reliability. Our vests undergo meticulous testing by the NIJ to ensure they meet and exceed their standards, providing peace of mind to our customers.

Testing Procedures

NIJ Testing Procedures involve rigorous assessments to ensure the quality and effectiveness of body armor. All hard armor, such as ballistic plates, undergo a 24-shot perforation/backface deformation test, along with either a 24-shot or 12-shot ballistic limit test. Prior to testing, the armor is stored at a temperature range between 77° ± 18° F and a relative humidity of 20 – 50%, simulating ambient range conditions, for at least 24 hours.

For Level III protection, the compliance test involves shooting the armor with 7.62 NATO rounds, while Level IV plates are tested against .30 caliber M2 AP rounds, commonly known as the .30-06. These tests are tailored to the specific levels of protection expected from the bulletproof vests. Level III vests are designed to withstand medium to large caliber rifle rounds ranging from 5.56x45mm up to 7.62x51mm NATO rounds, while Level IV armor is engineered to resist .30-06 AP rounds.

Level IIIA soft armor undergoes rigorous testing to ensure its efficacy in protecting against various ballistic threats. Specifically, this type of body armor is subjected to testing with .357 SiG FMJ Flat Nose bullets and .44 Magnum rounds, reflecting the diverse range of pistol threats it may encounter in real-world scenarios. By undergoing such thorough testing, NIJ-certified Level IIIA soft armor, like that of BulletSafe provides wearers with confidence in its ability to provide reliable protection against a range of firearm threats, from handguns to more powerful firearms.

In simplified terms, this means Level IIIA soft armor is meant to defend against handgun rounds, Level III armor is made for intermediate centerfire rifle cartridges, while Level IV is made for large caliber armor piercing rounds.

While this is not a comprehensive examination of all the testing the NIJ subjects armor to, many brands may do the bare minimum and claim they offer a product that meets the standard, BulletSafe distinguishes itself through the thoroughness of the NIJ testing process and the adherence to established standards. Our armor not only meets but exceeds these standards, ensuring reliability and peace of mind in high-stakes situations. From Level IIIA soft armor designed to withstand handgun rounds to Level IV plates engineered to resist powerful rifle ammunition, each piece of BulletSafe gear undergoes meticulous testing to guarantee optimal performance. By prioritizing quality materials, innovative design, and stringent testing protocols, BulletSafe upholds its commitment to providing top-tier protection to its customers. In a world where safety is paramount, investing in NIJ-certified body armor is not just a choice but a necessity, and BulletSafe stands as a trusted ally in ensuring personal safety and security.

On a quiet afternoon in Monroe, North Carolina, 32-year-old Moja Estep strolled through his local Walmart clad in a plate carrier, armed with a Glock, a Chiappa Rhino, an AK-47, and several knives.

Cell phone footage captured Estep casually minding his business, conversing on his phone while navigating the Walmart aisles like any typical shopper. While some smiled and waved at him, others gave him nervous looks. While most responsible advocates of the Second Amendment have no issue with individuals carrying firearms in public, some understandably felt alarmed seeing Estep equipped with such an array of weaponry. Consequently, he was later arrested and charged with a misdemeanor for "going about armed to the terror of the people."

In his defense, Estep clarified that he wasn't behaving in a threatening manner and had no intention of causing harm. The only reason why he was in Walmart with his rifle in the first place was to purchase a new sling for it.

While many of us carry firearms in public for self-defense, numerous self-defense experts would argue that maintaining the element of surprise offers the greatest advantage. This same principle is also for one's gear and its visibility.

There are some instances where open-carry gun owners have been unexpectedly disarmed by opportunistic criminals. Slick-fingered thieves have been captured on video snatching pistols out of waistbands or holsters and using their ill-gotten weapons on their owners. This is why it’s smarter to carry concealed. Similarly, the same concept applies to body armor. Whether worn by law enforcement, military personnel, security professionals, or civilians mindful of their safety, the goal is personal protection. A police officer or a security guard wants to be visible to act as a deterrent. However, an ordinary civilian would be smart to not draw attention to himself.

Logically, a potential assailant is more likely to neutralize the first perceived threat before escalating violence. By wearing body armor, one presents oneself as a threat. Concealing protective gear reduces this perception, much like concealing a firearm.

Perhaps a more discreet option like a gun bag for his rifle and BulletSafe’s Conceal Vest might have been better for him to not draw so much unnecessary attention. This innovative vest maintains Level IIIA protection while prioritizing discretion with features such as low-profile Velcro, soft edges for comfort, and a modified cut for enhanced mobility. The Conceal Vest would have allowed Estep to move freely while maintaining a high level of safety.

Ultimately, I'm not dictating what individuals should or shouldn't do, but the incident involving Moja Estep underscores the impact of outward appearances. Despite his harmless intentions, Estep's conspicuous attire sparked fear among the people around him.

While individuals have the right to bear arms and protect themselves, exercising this right in a manner that doesn't needlessly alarm others is paramount. Whether it's carrying firearms or wearing body armor, discretion and mindfulness can mitigate unnecessary fear and tension in public spaces, not to mention draw the attention of criminals.

In recent years, the troubling surge in gun-related violence within educational institutions has become an increasingly pressing concern. According to data provided by the Violence Project, a comprehensive database dedicated to understanding mass shootings and gun violence in the United States, incidents within schools have seen an alarming rise since 2012. This highlights the urgency of addressing this issue head-on. This unsettling trend prompts a critical examination of factors that contribute to school shootings, emphasizing the need for a proactive approach to curb the devastating impact on our schools and communities.

It's important for readers to consider that the data covers a range of incidents, including gang shootings, domestic violence, shootings at sports games and after-hours school events, suicides, fights escalating into shootings, and accidents. The Violence Project's research involves interviewing survivors and perpetrators of mass shootings, aiming to fully comprehend the causes of gun violence and how it can be prevented. The project attributes the rise in gun violence to fallout following the COVID pandemic, amplified by social media-induced anger, bullying, diminished faith in societal institutions, and the accessibility of guns to children.

In the post-Columbine era, American schools have approached school shooting drills as if they were inevitable emergencies, akin to fire or earthquake drills. Unfortunately, educators often overlook the fact that these drills inadvertently train potential future shooters. Moreover, these plans don't effectively prevent shootings but only show parents and the media that schools are addressing – or trying to address – the issue. So, what's the solution?

The project argues that Columbine has become a blueprint for modern-day shooters. Some even choose to commit their shootings on the 20^th of a given month, since Columbine happened on April 20. Some modern school shooters reported that they could relate to the Columbine shooters because they were depressed and suicidal and wanted to pull off their own shootings as an homage to this first act of violence.

One of the early warning signs of a potential school shooter is obsession. If schools could identify students engaging in obsessive research about school shootings, intervention becomes crucial. The aim isn't necessarily to punish but to provide the necessary help. Harsh legal deterrents are unlikely to prevent school shootings, as many perpetrators see their acts as a "last hurrah," intending to die as a final act of revenge against what they perceive to be a hostile world. To these people, a school shooting is a form of suicide.

Unlike conventional security threats defending against an external enemy, school shootings are typically perpetrated by a student familiar with the building's layout, class schedules, and whatever safeguards the school may have installed. The Violence Project stresses the need for school personnel to act when observing changes in a student's behavior. According to their research, 87% of school shooters were in crisis before the incident, displaying a marked change in behavior triggered by an event at school or home. It's crucial to note these noticeable behavioral changes in the days leading up to the shooting.

Changes may include discussing suicide, heightened agitation, excessive tardiness, and self-imposed isolation away from other students. Therefore, it's crucial for teachers and students to stay watchful and take action when noticing these behaviors. In some cases of mass shootings that could have been prevented, students were aware that a possible issue but failed to report it to a teacher or responsible adult. The Violence Project believes that identifying potential school shooters during these crisis moments is the primary defense.

Meanwhile, at home, firearm enthusiasts with children should recognize that safe storage is crucial for gun safety. Biometric gun safes prevent unauthorized access while providing a quick and easy way for home defenders to access their weapons in emergencies. Given that the majority of school shooters obtain guns from their parents, any laws prohibiting kids from owning guns become ineffective.

Addressing the complex issue of school shootings demands a multifaceted approach involving increased awareness, early intervention, and responsible firearm storage. The Violence Project's information highlights how crucial it is to notice when students' behavior changes and take action to keep them safe. Schools, teachers, and parents play a vital role in creating a supportive environment to prevent future tragedies. By working together to understand the reasons behind gun violence, taking practical steps, and securing firearms responsibly, we can make schools safer for our youth. It's a shared responsibility that requires everyone to commit to the well-being of our communities.

Modern body armor serves a critical role in personal protection, but at the same time should not compromise personal mobility. After all, the greatest defense is to not get hit in the first place. This is why rigid, heavy designs such as the US Army’s IOTV are generally considered less preferable than lighter, less obstructive plate carriers. 

There are many factors that influence the ergonomics and mobility of a particular piece of armor, including the style of its cut, its weight, and the material it is made of, and a discriminating buyer should be armed with the knowledge to make an informed purchase.

I. Cut Styles: Swimmer's Cut vs. SAPI Cut

The choice between cut styles significantly impacts an individual's mobility. The swimmer's cut, characterized by tapered shoulders, prioritizes enhanced arm and shoulder mobility. This makes it particularly advantageous for professions like law enforcement or military personnel who need to maintain agility in dynamic situations. Conversely, the SAPI-style cut sacrifices some mobility for a larger protective area around the torso, an optimal choice in scenarios where comprehensive coverage takes precedence. 

II. Body Armor Weight:

Weight is a crucial factor influencing an individual's ability to move freely while wearing body armor. BulletSafe’s soft armor is NIJA Level IIIA certified and composed of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene with a blend of aramid fibers, a lighter and denser material than Kevlar. This strong lightweight armor is designed to offer protection against handgun rounds at Level IIIA but can be combined with polymers to create a Level III or IV ballistic plate, capable of defeating rifle fire. Lighter Level IIIA armor is suitable for situations where agility and speed are paramount, such as for law enforcement officers who might have to chase after fleeing suspects. They are not ideal, however, in situations where one may expect threats to carry rifles. Maritime security and overseas private security contractors would be safer with the stronger but heavier Level IV plates. However, these harder ballistic plates can be heavier, potentially restricting mobility. Striking the right balance between protection and weight is imperative.  

III. Body Armor Material: 

Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) is renowned for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and is quickly replacing traditional materials like steel and ceramics. Its lightweight nature ensures superior mobility for the wearer without compromising ballistic resistance. Unlike steel, UHMWPE exhibits flexibility, absorbing and dispersing the impact energy rather than succumbing to fractures. In comparison to ceramics, UHMWPE offers a more cost-effective solution while maintaining comparable ballistic performance. Moreover, UHMWPE's versatility extends to its buoyancy in water, making it suitable for diverse applications, including maritime operations. The remarkable properties of UHMWPE position it as a leading choice for modern body armor, showcasing a harmonious blend of lightweight design, flexibility, and formidable ballistic protection. 

When buying body armor, it's crucial to strike a balance between mobility and protection. Whether opting for the agility-enhancing swimmer's cut or the comprehensive coverage of the shooter's cut, factoring in the weight of the armor, and considering innovative materials like UHMWPE, each decision contributes to a personalized and effective protective ensemble. In the dynamic landscape of personal safety, the choices made in acquiring body armor reflect a commitment to both mobility and security, ensuring that the wearer is well-equipped for the challenges ahead.