Ballistic, Stab, and Spike Protection for Bounty Hunters and Bail Bondsmen

• November 16, 2015
• by Tom Bowman
• Business Tips
• Fugitive Recovery
• Tips

One of the hardest parts about working as a bounty hunter is being prepared for the situations you may find yourself in. Retrieving those who have fled justice can already be a dangerous occupation, and this is further compounded by a number of factors, the most deadly being the use of weapons. Protection is therefore of the utmost importance for Bounty Hunters and Bail Bondsmen, who can only do their job confidently when they have appropriate protection. This will likely mean protective clothing, more commonly known as body armor.

But what type is best? Many do not realise that body armor can refer to a number of different items, the most common being bullet proof vests. However, it can also refer to ballistic helmets, stab proof vests, and even riot gear. Deciding on which is most appropriate for you and the situations you will be facing can only be achieved after understanding the myriad different types.

Ballistic Protection

Bullet proof vests are likely the most suitable protection for Bounty Hunters and Bail Bondsmen, as firearms are such a serious threat and easily accessible for most. Even if you will be working in a neighbourhood that has a very low rate of crime involving firearms, being prepared for the worst means that these deadly weapons should always be prepared for.

Ballistic protection is tested by the US National Institute of Justice and graded according to the ammunition it can stop. These NIJ Levels outline exactly what rounds vests are capable of stopping. For example, a Level II vest is capable of stopping 9mm, .40 S&W caliber bullets, and .357 Magnum soft points. On the other hand, vests at Level IV can protect against high caliber rifle rounds and even armor-piercing 7.62x51mm NATO.

However, these higher levels naturally come with increased weight and bulk, and for those who do not need it it will simply be a burden. Of course, in situations where this level of protection is necessary, the extra size and weight will pale in comparison to the unparalleled protection. The additional weight is in fact so negligible that rigid plates at Level IV can be inserted in certain covert carriers for the ultimate in discreet protection.

However, these higher levels naturally come with increased weight and bulk, and for those who do not need it it will simply be a burden. Of course, in situations where this level of protection is necessary, the extra size and weight will pale in comparison to the unparalleled protection. The additional weight is in fact so negligible that rigid plates at Level IV can be inserted in certain covert carriers for the ultimate in discreet protection.

Stab and Spike Protection

On the other hand, while firearms are certainly a prevalent and serious threat, some Bounty Hunters will find themselves in situations where they are not the main threat. In close quarters, or even in areas where firearms are not available or allowed, the threat of attack will still remain due simply to the nature of your role. Similarly, the threat of attack with weapons can still be very high, and an edged or spiked weapon like a knife or needle can be just as deadly as a firearm.

Many do not realise that bullet resistant vests are incapable of protecting against edged and spiked weapons. While the materials involved can absorb and disperse the energy from impacts, giving you protection even in car crashes or unarmed attacks, it cannot stop edged or spiked weapons. This is because edged weapons like knives or broken bottles can cut through the fabric used in bullet proof vests, and spiked weapons like needles or screwdrivers will pass through the gaps between the fibers.

Stab and spike proof vests use chainmail and/or laminate to protect against these weapons, both of which offer a tough surface that can stop the related weapons. Of course, chainmail will not stop spiked weapons, and for a spike proof vest only laminated plastic will offer the required protection. The extra protection given by stab and spike protection is negligible in terms of size and weight, and the benefits for those who need them are invaluable.

Deciding on the right type of protection can only be done accurately with proper research and preparation. It is important for individuals to choose armor that will protect them against the most likely threats. However, understanding exactly what protective options are available is very important, and will go a long way to ensuring that these brave men and women remain safe and confident in their ability to perform their jobs.

More on Protective Gear

• What Level of Protection do Fugitive Recovery Agents Require?
• The Bounty Hunters Guide To Bullet Proof Vests
• Legal Safety for Bail Bondsmen: Understanding Body Armor Laws

About the Author

Tom Bowman of Safeguard Clothing regularly provides thoughtful and well-researched information for a variety of fields, and is always eager to share his expert insights in ballistics testing and body armor.

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