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We're often asked about the difference between a bulletproof vest and a blade or knife-proof vest. The most frequently asked question is: Does a bulletproof vest protect against knife attacks?
In particular, we will see that the ballistic protection (often made of Kevlar) integrated into a vest does not use the same technology as blade-resistant vests.
Bullets are not blades! This observation seems simplistic at first glance, but it has required years of research by those working on the entire range of ballistic shields.
We will examine the differences between a bulletproof vest and a blade resistant vest.
What is a blade-resistant vest?
The blade vest, as the name suggests, is focused on protection and safety against blades, knives, not bullets.
This vest typically uses reinforced materials and specific technologies to prevent blades from penetrating the vest. These vests are often used in settings where the threat of stabbing is a greater concern.
Blade-resistant vest: what technology is used?
Here are some of the technologies commonly used in these vests:
Stab-resistant vests often use specially reinforced fabrics, sometimes made of aramid fibers similar to those used in bulletproof vests. These fabrics are designed to be difficult to cut or pierce and are not intended to stop bullets.
Some stab-resistant vests incorporate multiple layers of durable materials to increase the vest's ability to stop blades. These layers work together to dissipate the energy of the attack.
Some stab-resistant vests are equipped with specific anti-cut technologies, which may include layers of polymers or metals designed to resist cuts. These materials are often strategically placed within the vest.
Some models of stab-resistant vests may have additional plates, similar to those used in bullet-proof vests, but designed to provide increased protection against blades.
Blade vests can use advanced composite materials that combine different substances to achieve high levels of blade resistance while maintaining flexibility.
These technologies aim to minimize the risk of cutting or puncture injuries by providing a robust physical barrier against knife and blade attacks. It is important to note that while these vests may offer protection against blades, no protection is absolute, and the exact design may vary depending on the manufacturer and model.
What standard for a blade-resistant vest?
Stab-resistant vests are not subject to specific standards like bulletproof vests, which follow ballistic standards such as the NIJ (National Institute of Justice) standard in the United States. However, there are European standards that can be applied to cut-resistant clothing, including stab-resistant vests.
The relevant European standard for cut-resistant clothing is EN 388. This standard specifies the performance requirements for protective gloves against mechanical risks, including cut resistance. It assesses cut resistance on a scale of 0 to 5, where 0 means no resistance and 5 means maximum resistance.
When looking for a stab-resistant vest, it may be helpful to check whether it complies with the EN 388 standard to assess its cut resistance. However, note that this standard is more general and is not specifically designed for stab-resistant vests. It is always recommended to follow the manufacturer's recommendations and ensure the product meets your specific blade protection needs.
Bulletproof vest: what technology is used?
Among the technologies used in bulletproof vests is Kevlar fibers, an extremely durable synthetic material. Kevlar fibers are woven together to form a strong structure that can stop and disperse a bullet's kinetic energy. It is the most commonly used material across all vest lines.
In addition to Kevlar vests, ceramic plates integrated into vest covers are another technology commonly used in bulletproof vests. This other ballistic protection meets NIJ standards, which define the level of safety and the range of vests. These bulletproof plates are made of hard and resistant ceramics, such as aluminum oxide or silicon carbide, which can withstand the impact of a bullet by fragmenting it into several pieces.
Bulletproof vests can also use soft materials, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which is able to absorb the kinetic energy of bullets by deforming them and distributing the force over a larger area.
Depending on the level of protection required, bulletproof vests (Kevlar and concealed carry in particular) can combine these different technologies to provide maximum protection against bullets.
Does a bulletproof vest protect you from blades and knives?
This question raises many questions and requires in-depth analysis because a bullet is not a blade. It seems basic to say, but many people believe that a bulletproof vest necessarily protects you from knives. This is what a vest manufacturer will explain to you.
First, it's important to note that bulletproof vests, often made of Kevlar, protect against firearm projectiles such as bullets. However, they are not specifically designed to withstand attacks with blades or knives.
Blades have a different penetrating force than firearm projectiles, and bulletproof vests cannot prevent a piercing blade from passing through the surface. They may slow penetration, but they do not guarantee complete protection. However, they do protect against cuts.
So, although a Kevlar bulletproof vest may offer some protection against attacks with sharp and piercing weapons due to the strength of its materials, it does not guarantee absolute safety against these types of attacks.
In situations where you are subject to attacks from blades and knives, it is therefore essential to wear specific equipment (such as level IIIA+ of V007 ) and then to supplement this protection by using suitable equipment, such as reinforced gloves and elbow guards which can minimize the risks associated with the use of sharp weapons.
Above all, vigilance and proper training are also essential to reduce risks when confronted with blades or knives.
Difference in flexibility between these two protections?
Generally, a bulletproof vest is usually more flexible than a stab-resistant vest. The main reason for this lies in the difference in protection technology between the two.
A stab-resistant vest is specifically designed to protect against stab wounds and other sharp objects. These vests use reinforced materials, often layers of special fibers, to resist punctures caused by blades.
Due to these design differences, ballistic plates - except ceramic - are generally more soft and flexible, allowing for greater mobility.
Bulletproof vests also exist, as do blade-proof vests!
Similar to the V007 vest , there are hybrid bulletproof vests that combine ballistic materials with additional layers to provide some protection against blades. These more rigid hybrid vests aim to offer increased versatility, but their effectiveness against blades can vary depending on the specific design of the vest.
If blade protection is a major concern, it's recommended to opt for a blade-resistant vest specifically designed for this purpose. That said, NIJ-compliant III armor, such as the one used in the V007 vest, is ballistic protection perfectly suited to this type of attack. These plates stop high-caliber bullets and protect against punctures.
Can a civilian wear a blade-resistant vest?
This question is subject to debate, because according to current legislation in France, the purchase and possession of blade-resistant vests is reserved for law enforcement and security professionals.
However, it is important to note that there are stab-resistant vests specifically designed for civilian use, such as the range of ballistic vests intended for citizens who want more security or who work in high-risk professions, such as journalists.
In some cases, prior authorization from the authorities may be required to obtain such protective equipment. As citizens seek ways to enhance their personal safety, it is essential to comply with applicable laws and follow established rules for the acquisition and use of blade-resistant vests.