Help me learn more about armor

[Tex1961]

I'm a newly minted still wet behind the ears NRA Instructor (Pistol)... As I'm feeling my way around getting setup to train, I feel that it would be a good idea to finally get some sort of bullet proof vest when taking new students to the range... I understand Level 3a for most pistol calibers which seems to be the direction that I think I need... My question really is any good recommendations and suggestions as to what to look for... I don't want to go cheap, but obviously I don't want to spend a fortune on something that may not get used but a few hours per month...

Thanks

[strogg]

It sounds like Level 3A is perfect for the threat level you're facing (negligent discharge of pistol caliber handguns). I would personally go for something from Safe Life Defense. They are reasonably priced, and come in different flavors. You're best off with a vanilla vest. You need not have stab/slash ratings, although most non-kevlar vests nowadays do come with that protection. This one should suffice just fine: https://safelifedefense.com/product/multi-threat-vest/

Keep in mind that although there is better, it is doubtful you'll encounter students with 5.7 AP rounds or Liberty Defense 9mm rounds. The vest has full protection all around, so as long as the round hits somewhere inside the first inch of the edge, you should be fine. You might break a rib or two, but you'll live. Just know that this and all soft armor have a 5 year shelf life as the composite materials break down over time. It can be exceeded, but if you do, it is at your own risk.

[Tex1961]

It sounds like Level 3A is perfect for the threat level you're facing (negligent discharge of pistol caliber handguns). I would personally go for something from Safe Life Defense. They are reasonably priced, and come in different flavors. You're best off with a vanilla vest. You need not have stab/slash ratings, although most non-kevlar vests nowadays do come with that protection. This one should suffice just fine: https://safelifedefense.com/product/multi-threat-vest/

Keep in mind that although there is better, it is doubtful you'll encounter students with 5.7 AP rounds or Liberty Defense 9mm rounds. The vest has full protection all around, so as long as the round hits somewhere inside the first inch of the edge, you should be fine. You might break a rib or two, but you'll live. Just know that this and all soft armor have a 5 year shelf life as the composite materials break down over time. It can be exceeded, but if you do, it is at your own risk.

Thank You... And your right.... Pretty much new shooters with off the shelf range ammo... I'm sure I will encounter various 22, 38spcl, 380, 9mm and so forth.... Hopefully I've done my job before we get to the range.. But we all know how THAT goes....

[AF-Odin]

You might check out bulletproofme.com. They sell police surplus body armor.

[KRM45]

I haven’t been there lately, but GT Distributors may be worth a visit. They have a good display area and can talk through fit & carriers.