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Our society, and particularly France, is facing a significant rise in violence. Recent figures from the Ministry of the Interior speak for themselves: in 2023, intentional assaults and battery increased by nearly 7% (with a peak of 15% for domestic violence), and unarmed assaults by 5%. Even more alarming, knife attacks in France are a growing reality. The report "Insecurity and Crime in 2023" reveals a continued increase in physical violence, including violence involving weapons, where bladed weapons play a leading role in many attacks.
Faced with this observation, more and more civilians are wondering about ways to protect themselves, and the question of the legality of a bulletproof vest for civilians becomes essential.
At VEST PARIS , the French leader in ballistic protection and knives for individuals, we understand this legitimate concern. It is essential to know whether acquiring and wearing a classic bulletproof vest or a more elaborate and sophisticated bulletproof jacket is legally permitted. We have extended our study to Italy and the United States, where our main customers are located. This article sheds light on key regulations, highlighting the importance of choosing suitable ballistic protection that complies with current legislation.
Civilian bulletproof vests: legislation varies from country to country
Bulletproof vest legislation varies considerably from country to country. These laws are shaped by various factors: the national security context, gun control policies, and legal history. For any civilian interested in purchasing a bulletproof vest from VEST PARIS like the V007 , it is imperative to be aware of the legal specifics of their region.
In France
Faced with the upsurge in attacks, many French people are considering personal protection. In France, the acquisition and wearing of a bulletproof and stab-resistant vest or jacket by a civilian is, for the most part, legal. No law formally prohibits it for personal use. However, specific rules govern this freedom:
Lack of official markings: A civilian bulletproof jacket or vest must not, under any circumstances, display insignia, colors, or patterns reserved for law enforcement (National Police, Gendarmerie) or the armed forces. Wearing equipment with false markings is an act of impersonation, punishable by criminal penalties.
Legitimate Use: Wearing a bulletproof vest or jacket must be justified by a proven personal or professional security reason, and not by the intention to commit an illegal act. This is why VEST PARIS offers discreet models, perfectly suited to civilian use without attracting attention.
Purchasing Accessibility: Bulletproof vests are available for purchase by civilians from specialized suppliers or from brands that have recognized expertise in this field, such as VEST PARIS, partnered with Protecop. Our partner, Protecop, is a French manufacturer of bulletproof vests that offers approved ballistic protection, guaranteeing both effectiveness and legal compliance. Our bulletproof vests meet a growing need for personal safety.
In Italy
In Italy, the legislation on bulletproof vests or jackets, known as "giubbotto antiproiettile" for civilians, has similarities to that in France. Possession is generally tolerated under certain conditions:
Free acquisition and possession: As a general rule, the purchase and possession of a "giubbotto antiproiettile" is permitted for Italian citizens. No specific license is required.
Legitimate Use: Use must be legitimate and not associated with illegal activities.
Accessibility for purchase: It is strictly forbidden to wear a "giubbotto antiproiettile" that could be confused with those used by the Italian police or army. The goal is to avoid any identity theft or confusion. This is why VEST PARIS offers jackets designed for optimal discretion, fully respecting local legislation.
In the United States
In the United States, the question of the legality of body armor for civilians is more complex and subject to significant variation from state to state.
Federal Law: At the federal level, the purchase and possession of a bulletproof vest or jacket by civilians is generally legal. However, federal law explicitly prohibits anyone convicted of a violent crime from possessing such a product.
State Laws: Many states have their own specific, often more restrictive, regulations, for example:
In Connecticut, purchasing body armor in person is legal, but purchasing it online or by mail order is restricted and may require a valid firearms license.
In New York, following recent events, the state of New York has tightened its laws. It is now illegal for civilians to buy or sell body armor, except for certain authorized professions (such as law enforcement, licensed security guards, etc.) and under strict conditions.
In California, possession is generally legal, except for people who have committed certain violent crimes.
Online sales of bulletproof vests may be subject to additional restrictions or identity checks, depending on the destination state.
In the United States, VEST PARIS is committed to full compliance with all federal and state regulations. We strongly advise our American customers to check their state's specific legislation before purchasing one of our bulletproof vests, such as the V007, which meets the requirements of the American market.
Choosing your bulletproof vest or jacket
Bulletproof vest and body armor manufacturers like VEST PARIS—in partnership with Protecop—design ballistic protection that meets strict standards to ensure your safety. Bulletproof vests are classified according to their ability to stop different types of threats. The most common protection levels are defined by the NIJ (National Institute of Justice) standard. This classification is essential for understanding the performance and intended use of each bulletproof vest.
Understanding the NIJ Standard
A distinction is made between soft vests (generally up to Level IIIA or even IIIA+) and vests with rigid plates (Level III, Level IV), which offer protection against more serious threats. This classification is essential for understanding the performance and intended use of each bulletproof vest.
Bulletproof vests reserved for civilians
For civilians, the most commonly authorized and relevant class of body armor is NIJ Level IIIA. This type of soft body armor is designed to stop the vast majority of pistol and submachine gun threats, providing effective and discreet civilian ballistic protection.
For example, VEST PARIS bulletproof vests, like the V007 model above, are designed in this category, prioritizing lightness and comfort for unhindered daily wear. They can often include knife or slice protection, crucial against the knife attacks we discussed. This class level is legal for purchase and possession by civilians in France and Italy, and in most US states, subject to the specific local regulations mentioned above.
Bulletproof vests reserved for professionals
In contrast, NIJ Class III and IV bulletproof vests, which incorporate rigid plates (ceramic or thick composites), are primarily designed to stop rifle fire and armor-piercing ammunition. While their acquisition may be legal for civilians in certain contexts and countries, their use is mostly reserved for law enforcement professionals, military personnel, or security personnel facing threats of war or organized crime. Their weight and bulk make them less suitable for everyday civilian use.
In summary
Before purchasing a bulletproof vest or jacket, it is imperative to consult the specific legislation in your area of residence. For 12 years, VEST PARIS has been your trusted partner, offering reliable and compliant ballistic protection. We invite you to explore our range or contact our experts for any questions about the legal and appropriate acquisition of your personal protection. Your safety is our priority, in strict compliance with the law.