We offer a wide selection of bullet proof body armour for all security scenarios. From discreet ultra covert Level II protection, up to overt Level IIIA Home Office HO1 KR1 SP1 community support body armour with the option of adding ceramic plates. Our covert lightweight design offers flexibility, comfort, and outstanding front, rear, and side protection against 9mm handguns, knives, and needles. No matter the occasion, we have you covered.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "bullet proof" actually mean?
No body armour is truly 100% bullet proof under all conditions, which is why the industry uses the term "bullet resistant." Our vests are rated to specific NIJ (National Institute of Justice) standards, which define exactly which calibres and velocities the armour is tested against. A vest rated NIJ Level IIIA will stop common handgun rounds including 9mm and .44 Magnum fired at standard velocities.
What is the difference between NIJ Level II and NIJ Level IIIA?
NIJ Level II is the lighter option, tested against 9mm and .357 Magnum rounds. It is ideal for covert wear and extended daily use. NIJ Level IIIA offers a higher protection rating, stopping .44 Magnum and 9mm sub-machine gun rounds. Both are soft armour options. For rifle-rated protection, our standalone hard armour plates (NIJ Level III and IV) can be inserted into a plate carrier for additional coverage.
Can bullet proof vests also protect against knives?
Not automatically. Ballistic protection and stab protection are separate properties. A vest rated only for ballistic threats may not stop a knife thrust. Our Home Office HO1 KR1 SP1 certified vests are tested against both ballistic and knife (KR1) and spike/needle (SP1) threats, making them multi-threat protection options. Check the individual product page to confirm which threats each vest is rated against.
What are standalone armour plates used for?
Standalone plates are rigid hard armour inserts made from ceramic or UHMWPE material. They are placed in a plate carrier vest and provide enhanced protection against rifle-calibre threats. Our NIJ Level III plates stop 7.62mm rounds and our Level IV plates stop armour-piercing rifle rounds. They are used by military personnel, tactical teams, and those in high-threat environments.
Is bullet proof body armour legal to buy in the UK?
Yes. There are no restrictions on civilians purchasing or wearing body armour in the UK. Our full range is legally available to the public. We do reserve the right to decline orders where we have concerns about the intended use of the equipment.
How long does a bullet proof vest last?
Most manufacturers recommend replacing soft armour panels every 5 years, even if they have not been used in an incident. This is because the fibres in ballistic panels can degrade over time with exposure to heat, moisture, and UV light. Hard armour plates should be inspected for cracks or damage regularly. Always store body armour flat, away from direct sunlight, in a cool dry environment.
Can I add plates to a soft armour vest?
This depends on the vest design. Our covert tactical body armour range includes plate pockets that accept standard-sized hard armour plates, allowing you to upgrade the protection level of your existing vest. Check each product listing for compatibility. Our standalone plate carrier vests are specifically designed to hold front and back armour plates.
