Bulletproof Vest For Kids - Here's What You Need To Know

With everything going on in our world today, it comes as no surprise that we are fielding more and more inquiries from parents looking for body armor for their children. It's truly sad to think that of all the things parents have to worry about today, buying their child a bulletproof vest is now on the list. 

So to help bring some clarity this most troubling issue facing parents today, I've compiled a list of the most commonly asked questions by parents who are shopping for body armor for their kids. I'll review sizing, pricing and types of body armor to help give you a better idea of what to look for when purchasing a bulletproof vest for your child. But first, let's get some clarity on why using the term "bulletproof" isn't actually correct.

Bulletproof suggests that a bullet can never pass through the vest; completely impenetrable. Just like something that claims to be waterproof. When you say something is "waterproof" you are declaring that water will NEVER get inside.

The reality is, no vest manufacturer can ever truly claim that their product is 100% bulletproof. Eventually, with enough rounds, material will break down and a bullet can and will pass through. 

So when shopping for a ballistic vest, know that you're truly looking at a bullet "resistant" vest. A product that will provide you with a certain degree of protection against certain caliber bullets up to a certain point. 

What size body armor should you buy for my kids?

If you're looking for a soft body armor vest for your child (which is rated to stop bullets from a handgun) you are most likely going to need to purchase an Extra Small or Small vest.

If you are looking for protection against rifle rounds such as .223 or 5.56 you are going to need to upgrade to hard body armor plates. These plates are generally thicker, heavier, and as their name suggests, harder than soft armor panels and vests. Children and smaller framed adults will generally need 8"x10" plates. 

Be advised that hard armor plates will require the purchase of a plate carrier which allows the plates to be worn front and back. When purchasing a plate carrier, be sure to confirm that the carrier is designed to carry 8"x10" plates. 

How much does body armor cost for kids?

When it comes to soft body armor vests, you can expect to spend anywhere from $300-$400 for a quality vest. 

As for hard armor plates, expect to pay $300-$350 per plate. So for front and rear protection, expect to pay $600-$700 for a set of quality hard armor plates. Add to that a plate carrier, which costs anywhere from $150-$200 and you have your grand total for a full hard body armor kit.

Conclusion

The fact that so many parents requested I write this blog is troubling in and of itself. It is truly a sad sign of the times and the world we are living in today. However, many parents are lost and scared when it comes to purchasing body armor of any kind for their child. They want to know they are spending their money on the right product and are making the right decision. 

If you are a concerned parent looking to keep your child or children safer during these uncertain times, please do not hesitate to reach out to us directly to answer any questions you might have. Our sales team is available 24/7 to answer your questions. Email us today at sales@221btactical.com

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