Body Armor Guides — history & education
The US Army issues ESAPI ceramic plates in the IOTV Gen 4 and Modular Scalable Vest. See how military armor compares to civilian NIJ Level IV plates you can buy today.
How Do Bulletproof Vests Work? Soft Armor & Plates (2026)
Soft armor, hard plates, NIJ 0101.06 levels, ceramic vs. polyethylene vs. steel — how bullet-resistant vests actually stop rounds, explained with test data.
What Are Armor Plates Made Of? Materials Explained
Learn what armor plates are made of: steel, ceramic, polyethylene, aramid fibers, and composites. Discover each material's strength, weight, and protection capabilities.
5 Body Armor Myths Debunked (2026 Guide)
All armor stops every bullet? It expires at 5 years? Civilians can't own it? We debunk the 5 most dangerous body armor myths with NIJ data and real specs.
What Are Bulletproof Vests Made Of? Materials Guide 2026
Kevlar, UHMWPE, ceramic, or steel — 4 materials decide whether a vest stops a 9mm or a rifle round. Full breakdown with NIJ threat ratings and lifespan data.
How Is Bullet-Resistant Clothing Made?
Learn how Kevlar and Dyneema become bullet-resistant clothing through fiber spinning, weaving, lamination, and NIJ testing. Discover what each protection level stops.