The Properties

• Carry an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio
• Outperform steel five times over by weight
• Withstand high-impact toughness
• Resist heat and chemical breakdown

Impact

• Meet the bullet at the outer surface
• Receive the full strike on woven fabric
• Begin energy transfer on contact
• Hold the round at the entry layer

Energy Transfer

• Channel kinetic energy into the fibers
• Stretch and deform the aramid strands
• Convert forward motion into fiber strain
• Start slowing the round immediately

Energy Dissipation

• Pull energy laterally across the weave
• Spread force over a wide area
• Reduce dangerous energy concentration
• Share the load between many fibers

Bullet Stop

• Capture the round within the layers
• Absorb its remaining kinetic energy
• Prevent penetration through the panel
• Trap the deformed projectile in fabric

Armor Layup

• Front with abrasion-resistant outer fabric
• Stack Kevlar layers for energy absorption
• Back with a comfort and moisture liner
• Combine layers into one protective panel

NIJ Ratings

• Follow National Institute of Justice standards
• Rate IIA against lower handgun threats
• Step up to II for moderate threats
• Reach IIIA for higher-velocity handgun rounds

Threat Match

• Match armor level to expected ammunition
• Account for bullet mass and velocity
• Verify ratings through standardized test shots
• Select protection above the likely threat