NCJ Number
102622
Date Published
1986
Length
98 pages
Annotation
This overview of protective apparel and equipment describes the characteristics and capabilities of various materials, ballistic vests, ballistic armor, bomb suppression material, and armored vehicles.
Abstract
The introduction briefly traces the use of protective armor throughout history up to the current use of multiple pieces of body armor composed of material highly resistant to high velocity projectiles. A review of current protective materials focuses primarily on Kevlar (a registered trade name used by Du Pont for the aramid fiber). Types of Kevlar and their characteristics are described. Kevlar advantages are lightness, malleability, and resistance to bullets and sharp objects. Its major disadvantage is deterioration over time, especially under exposure to ultraviolet light. Descriptions of various ballistic vests include photographic illustrations and information on protection levels, weight, and body coverage. A discussion of ballistic armor covers helmets, glasses and goggles, gloves and arm covers, and shields. Fabrics that can contain bomb blasts are also described. Descriptions of armored civilian and military vehicles encompass their costs, capabilities, limitations, and uses. An appended list of names, addresses, and phone numbers for manufacturers, dealers, and distributors of protective equipment.