Civilian Body Armor: 18 oz That Could Save Your Ass

Published on March 18, 2013
Duration: 27:17

This guide synthesizes expert advice on selecting civilian body armor, emphasizing the balance between protection and mobility. It highlights the legal aspects of civilian ownership and discusses various armor types, including lightweight hard plates and Dyneema rifle plates. The importance of comfort and affordability for preparedness scenarios is also stressed, drawing on long-term testing and practical application insights.

Quick Summary

Lightweight body armor like the DKX Max IIIA offers NIJ Level IIIA protection at only 18-20 ounces, balancing mobility and safety. Civilians can legally own body armor, making options like the DKX Max IIIA and DKX Max III (Level III Dyneema) practical choices for preparedness, prioritizing comfort for sustained wear.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Range Safety
  2. 01:41Civilian Ownership and Philosophy
  3. 05:14Soft Armor vs. Rifle Plates
  4. 10:13DKX Max IIIA Hard Armor
  5. 14:41DKX Max III Rifle Plates
  6. 18:41Value and Final Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary benefit of lightweight body armor like the DKX Max IIIA?

The primary benefit of lightweight body armor like the DKX Max IIIA is its ability to provide significant ballistic protection (up to NIJ Level IIIA) while weighing only 18-20 ounces, drastically improving mobility and comfort for extended wear compared to heavier options.

Can civilians legally own body armor in the US?

Yes, civilians can legally own body armor in the United States. This was clarified as of early 2013, removing previous restrictions that had limited ownership primarily to law enforcement personnel.

What is the difference between NIJ Level IIIA and Level IV body armor?

NIJ Level IIIA armor is designed to stop handgun rounds like .44 Magnum, while NIJ Level IV armor is rated to stop armor-piercing rifle rounds. Level IV plates are typically much heavier (around 8 lbs) than Level IIIA options.

Why is Dyneema Polyethylene armor like the DKX Max III considered advantageous?

Dyneema Polyethylene armor, such as the DKX Max III, is advantageous because it is significantly lighter than ceramic plates (around 3 lbs 3 oz), multi-hit capable, and does not suffer from spalling, offering enhanced safety and mobility.

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