In addition to possible department regulations, some factors to consider regarding NIJ Level include:
- Select armor designed to defeat ammunition used in your own firearm or in weapons known to be used in the area you patrol
- Know if your armor will be used as part of an Active Shooter Kit or worn for extended periods (consider how the weight of the plates might affect you)
- Know what firearms are used by your workforce (friendly fire?)
- Be aware of sport shooting or hunting in your area
If you are interested in reading more, you can visit the NIJ website and read more about the NIJ Body Armor Performance Standards.
It is also important to note that if you do not require NIJ certification, there are several “Special Threat” options that may provide some benefit for your intended use. For an overview of the various protection levels offered by HESCO plates, consult the “Threat Matrix“.
Share This Post