Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
test panel is shot six times in specific locations with the test round and
assessed for penetration (see Exhibit 9.2).
Each of the six test shots must be what is termed a fair hit, which is
defined by the NIJ as “a bullet which impacts the armor at an angle of
incidence no greater than five degrees plus or minus from the intended
angle of incidence,
no closer to the edge of the armor part than 7.6 cm
(3 in) and no closer to a prior hit than 5 cm (2 in),
at an impact velocity
no more than 50 ft (15 m) per
second greater than the minimum
required test velocity.”
3
Nothing in
the literature available from NIJ
explains why this standard was
chosen. For example, a round of
ammunition that strikes the vest
within 4.9 centimeters (cm) of
a previous hit and penetrates is
deemed an “unfair hit” and does
not result in a failure of the vest for
rating purposes. An impact that
strikes the vest even the slightest
bit less than three inches from the edge is likewise deemed to be “unfair”
and does not disqualify the sample. Think about that. The NIJ does not
require that a vest stop a bullet 2.99 inches from any edge! While brief-
ing the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Safety and Equipment
committee several years ago, David demonstrated the inadequacy of this
standard by measuring points three inches from the edge of the issued
SBA and then connecting the dots with a grease pencil. What you get is a
postage-stamp-size area that the NIJ certifies as ballistically effective.
The
vest is not required to be effective outside that area.
Now consider that fact in
conjunction with the designs of most vests sold for undercover use. These
are the designs that are most likely to be suitable for the executive look-
ing for additional protection that can be worn under clothing. The vests
are scooped out low under the chin and armpits, providing limited cov-
erage for the user's body. Most salespeople point this out as a benefit,
citing the wearer's comfort. The NIJ itself also promotes these “comfort”
standards, contending that officers or others are less likely to wear
uncomfortable vests. This may be true, but comfort also must be balanced
against protective ability. The available data tell us where vest design
needs improvement.
Exhibit 9.2
Test Shot Pattern
#1
#1
#5
#5
#4
#4
#6
#6
#2
#3
#2
#3
