Bulletproof, a crucial element for protection in armed conflicts, has a fascinating history. Its origins date back to the 19th century, when experiments were carried out with materials such as silk, linen, or even paper to provide protection against bullets. However, it was at the beginning of the 20th century that significant advances were made with the invention of the bulletproof vest by Casimir Zeglen in 1897, using layers of silk and cotton.
During the First World War, soldiers used steel vests, but these were heavy and limited mobility. Advances in materials science led to the use of synthetic fibers like Kevlar, developed by DuPont in the 1960s, revolutionizing the design of modern bulletproof vests.
Over time, technologies have improved, allowing vests to be made that are lighter, flexible, and offer more effective protection against a variety of bullets and weapons. Today, the development of nanomaterials opens up new perspectives for even more efficient equipment, ensuring the safety of law enforcement agencies, soldiers and even civilians in contexts where personal protection is essential.
The different levels of bulletproof protection
Bulletproof vests offer different levels of protection depending on the standards and materials used. The most commonly used classification system is that of the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) in the United States, which divides vests into levels of protection ranging from I to IV.
Level I provides basic protection against small-caliber handbullets, while Level IV is designed to withstand high-caliber armorants such as assault weapon bullets.
The FURTIV jackets, developed by Inventive Citi teams in 2013, for example, use bulletproof protection rated 3A and 3A+, close to the highest level of protection.
Each level corresponds to a different ability to stop projectiles, determined by the thickness and type of material used. Level III bulletproof vests are often used by law enforcement and civilians because they offer protection against commonly encountered firearms like 9mm.
Materials such as Kevlar, Dyneema, and other synthetic fibers are used to build these vests, offering an optimal combination of lightness and strength to ensure effective protection at the required level.
The NIJ bulletproof classification
This NIJ classification is fundamental to assess the protective capacity of bulletproof vests.
It divides the levels into five categories, ranging from Level I to Level IV, each offering specific resistance to bullets and weapons.
Level I provides minimal protection against small-caliber bullets, while Level II and II-A offer defense against more powerful handguns.
Level III-A, like the one used by the FURTIV jacket, provides extended protection against handguns such as the 9mm, the 44 Magnum or the 357 SIG.
Levels III-A+ also used by FURTIV and IV offer high protection against assault weapons and armor-piercing ammunition.
These classifications are determined by the vest's ability to stop projectiles without penetration or serious injury.
This classification is essential for law enforcement agencies, the military, and any civilian seeking protection tailored to specific threats.
How does a bulletproof vest work
A bulletproof vest works by dissipating kinetic energy from a bullet to minimize damage to the wearer. It is composed of layers of tightly woven materials, often Kevlar, Dyneema, or other ultra-strong synthetic fibers.
When a ball hits the vest, these materials absorb and disperse the energy over a larger area, thereby slowing the ball down. This deformation of the molecular structure of the fibers absorbs the kinetic energy of the ball and distributes the force of the impact, preventing the ball from penetrating and reducing potential injuries.
The multiple layers work synergistically to stop the ball or at least slow its progression, thus protecting the wearer from fatal injuries.
This design makes it possible to save the life of the carrier by reducing the impact of the ammunition without however guaranteeing absolute protection against all types of bullets.
The Kevlar revolution
Aramid is a very strong and lightweight synthetic polymer that is often used in the manufacture of bulletproof vests. The best known aramid is Kevlar, developed by DuPont.
Made up of long aligned molecular chains, Kevlar offers exceptional tensile strength, five times greater than that of steel of equal weight. Its flexible and lightweight structure makes it possible to create bulletproof vests that offer protection against bullets, blades, and other projectiles.
This fiber is famous for its ability to absorb the kinetic energy of bullets by deforming its molecular structure, thus slowing the progression of projectiles and reducing the impact on the wearer.
Kevlar is widely used in the manufacture of bulletproof vests of various levels of protection for law enforcement, military, and other professionals subject to ballistic risks, offering an unparalleled combination of strength, flexibility, and lightness to provide vital protection.
Can a civilian wear a FURTIV bulletproof jacket
Yes, a civilian can wear it in many countries, but that still depends on local regulations and gun laws.
In many jurisdictions, the purchase and wearing of bulletproof vests is legal for civilians without special restrictions.
However, some regions may have specific requirements or rules for buying and owning this equipment. In France, for example, a civilian can buy and wear bulletproof under level 4. Above, above it is considered military equipment.
Civilians may purchase bulletproof vests for a variety of reasons, including for high-risk professional activities, personal safety, or in settings where the threat of violence is present. It is essential to learn about local laws and comply with applicable regulations before acquiring or wearing a bulletproof vest.
Can a bulletproof be exposed to rain?
Current bulletproof vests are generally designed to be water resistant to some extent, but prolonged and repeated exposure to water can potentially compromise their effectiveness.
Materials used in bulletproof vests, such as Kevlar or Dyneema, may be altered by excessive humidity, which could weaken their ability to stop projectiles.
Occasional exposure to light rain should not cause major problems, but it is recommended to dry the bulletproof vest thoroughly after any exposure to water to avoid deterioration.
It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for maintaining and cleaning the bulletproof vest to preserve its performance and ensure its durability. If the vest is regularly used in humid conditions, waterproof covers or special treatments may be available to better protect it against moisture.
For FURTIV jackets, the bulletproof material is protected from rain and the fabrics used in the ORIGIN and WINTER models are also waterproof.
Are all the bulletproof vests available on the market reliable?
The reliability of bulletproof vests can vary greatly depending on the quality, level of protection, and compliance with safety standards.
Bulletproof vests made by reputable companies and certified to recognized ballistic standards, like those of the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) in the United States, generally offer better reliability.
However, not all bulletproof vests are created equal, and there are substandard or counterfeit products on the market that may not offer the protection expected.
It is essential to thoroughly research manufacturers, consult expert opinions, and, if possible, verify certifications and compliance tests before buying a bulletproof vest.
In addition, it is recommended to comply with local regulations regarding the purchase and use of bulletproof vests, as well as to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for maintaining and replacing the vest in case of damage or wear.
Only bulletproof vests from reliable sources that comply with safety standards can provide effective protection.
