I've worn Level II, II-A, III and III-A vests for various work assignments. The Level III-A was warm, but considering the circumstances, I'd rather be "warm" than face the consequences.
There are trauma packs that can be inserted into many models of vests that will stop rifle rounds and higher powered handguns.
Here's a guide as to what to expect from the various levels of body armor:
• Level I offers the most basic protection. It’s the same ballistic vest issued during the NIJ demonstration project of the 1970s.
• Level II-A offers greater protection, from lower velocity 9mm and 40 S&W ammunition.
• Level II offers even greater protection like higher velocity .357 Magnum and 9mm ammunition.
• Level III-A is the highest protection available for concealable, ballistic vests. Level III-A protects against most handguns and all the weapons from the previous three levels.
Check out this link for more information on the history and selection of body armor:
Ballistic Vests, Introduction - Galls
Check out the various LE supply companies like
Police Equipment - Public Safety Equipment - Police Uniforms : Galls,
ISP - Body Armor - Bullet Proof Vests - Air Taser M 18, Concealable Vests, Ballistic Wall Panes
Looks like prices have gone up slightly, but here's a few examples of economical but dependable vests.
Link Removed Link Removed Concealable Body Armor
Shop around and find the best armor that you can afford and would be comfortable wearing. I prefer Kevlar, but there are other materials out there.
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