The addition of bulletproof inserts to bullet resistant fabric garments is still the major contribution to personal protection when faced with a ballistic attack of any kind. Although research continues at a pace to provide members of security forces and the public with a more practical, easy to wear form of protection, many people in all walks of life are still happy to wear clothes with these bulky bulletproof inserts.

They wear them happily because they know that as far as protection from gunfire is concerned, bulletproof inserts are simply the best we have right now. Inserts made from one of the high technology materials such as Dyneema or Spectra, can stop even a high velocity rifle bullet dead in its tracks. The obvious tactical problem is, will you be able to cover enough of your body to provide an effective barrier?

An Alternative to Bulletproof Inserts

For some time research into this subject has focused on producing a whole-body protective covering that does not involve the use of bulky bulletproof inserts. To date, the most promising research is that being conducted by Dupont, the makers of Kevlar. They are working on something they call liquid armor. This special liquid they've developed can be soaked into bullet resistant fabric, which is then shaped, molded and sewn as usual.

Without the use of bulletproof inserts, this new fabric allows for body armor that is lighter, more flexible and easier to wear. In addition it's cheap to produce. It produces armor by becoming rigid on impact with any projectile. Although not available just yet, it is expected that pretty soon, bullet proof inserts will be a thing of the past.