SIG MMG 338 Program Series

Factors that Affect Law Enforcement Officers’ Use of Body Armor

The National Institute of Justice has launched a page on the website entitled, “Factors that Affect Officers’ Use of Body Armor.” It is meant to aggregate any studies that they have conducted relative to the use of body armor by law enforcement officers.

Currently, there are two topics with supporting documentation: Agency Policies Promote Use of Body Armor and Comfort of Body Armor. One interesting role NIJ has taken in the improvement of body armor comfort is in the realm of fit. They have worked with the American Society of Testing and Materials to develop standards for fitting armor so that industry and consumers alike will work from a common point of view for sizing.

This is a great resource.

www.nij.gov/nij/topics/technology/body-armor/use

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4 Responses to “Factors that Affect Law Enforcement Officers’ Use of Body Armor”

  1. Great resource at that. A big thank you in order for posting this up!

    Vic

  2. Erick says:

    Thanks Eric; none of this had popped up on any of the cop / armor websites yet.

  3. JohnC says:

    Coincidentally, I read this post as Batman Begins came on, specifically this stupidly snarky part:

    Lucius Fox: Here we are. Nomex survival suit for advanced infantry. Kevlar biweave, reinforced joints.
    Bruce Wayne: Tear resistant?
    Fox: This sucker will stop a knife.
    Wayne: Bulletproof?
    Fox: Anything but a straight shot.
    Wayne: Why didn’t they put it into production?
    Fox: Bean counters didn’t think a soldier’s life was worth 300 grand.

    Good for them. I’d be pissed if we spent $200 B on armor that’s a little bit bulletproof.

  4. stefan s. says:

    Sorry, when your police look like SEALS you have a Police State. Just ask Watertown MA after the Marathon Bombing!