They absorb the impact from these projectiles and are worn over our upper body. Depending on the kind and quality of the bullet proof vest they can absorb impacts from fragments from hand grenades, small-caliber handguns, and shotgun projectiles. Young children even have an idea, although a somewhat exaggerated one, what bullet proof clothing can do for the body. Watching cartoons and other animations, it is often portrayed that when a character dons on this vest they will then be immune to bullet wounds and become invincible.
Modern bullet proof vests were first used by the police in 1969. Since it was introduced, it has helped cut down the death toll of policemen in the line of duty. Now, anybody who needs personal protection can buy a bullet proof vest or bullet proof jacket. But before you decide to get one for yourself there are some things you need to know regarding bullet proof clothing.
First of all let us debunk the myth about bullet proof clothes. NO ARMOR IS 100% BULLET PROOF. So discard the scenes in those cartoons you saw in your childhood and do not dash into a rain of bullets just because you have bullet proof clothing on.
There are two types of body armor you can choose from, hard and soft body armor. Soft bullet proof clothing is made from different materials from Kevlar, Twaron, Dyneema, and Spectra. Newer polyethylene fibers have also been introduced and are lighter in weight but that does mean they are half as good because they are as impact-resistant as the older aramid fibers. Hard body armor or bullet proof clothes are made of polyethylene, ceramic, or steel. They are highly resistant to impact but vulnerable to blows along their edges especially the non-metallic plates kind. These need to be carefully packed before they are shipped.
Familiarize yourself with the different levels of protection a body armor can offer. Ratings are accorded to the amount of blunt force impact a body armor is capable of stopping. Third, choose a vest that fits you. Find a vest that has a comfortable fit. If you choose a bullet proof vest that is too large it will not be able to protect your body correctly and chances of it slipping is there. If the vest you are wearing is also too small then having the armor will be of no use as it might not be able to cover and protect vital body parts.