Re: Kevlar Vests?
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Acehigh</div><div class="ubbcode-body">from a comfort standpoint, I can't tell a difference when the plate is in the vest or out. </div></div>
Not sure what kind of plates you are rocking, but the ceramic plates in my entry vest add 30-40 lbs. I can most definitely tell a difference in comfort. If you are talking about an itty-bitty trauma plate, then drive on, but Level III-IV will require that you eat your Wheaties.
To the OP, if you want a vest, check Galls. They have some reasonably priced stuff and also used vests. As above, manufacturers warranties are usually five years, but the vests last for quite some time. Most of use keep our old armor as backup/POV vests when we get our new stuff issued.
If you get a used vest, be careful of the source. Most of us treat our armor as the lifesaving device it is. Some don't.
When ordering new armor, make sure you are fitted by someone who knows what they are doing. Improperly fitted armor will be uncomfortable or not cover what it needs to.
Level IIA should be sufficient for anything you are doing that doesn't include willingly participating in a gunfight. If you are going to go looking for a fight, an entry vest with Level III or IV plates is the way to go, but eight hours in that may not kill you, but you will wish it did the next morning.
I am on my second Second Chance vest. I love them. It's lighter than my last with the same protective qualities. It is as flexible as anything else on the market and I really don't mind wearing it for fourty to fifty hours a week.
VERY light and fits good
