I want to warm up this thread again. Have been thinking about purchasing a vest (bullet proof / stab resistant). Man purpose would be to wear it if there is a high likely hood to encounter a bad guy, like in the typical "someone trying to break into my house" scenario.
What are people's thoughts on the effectiveness? Do they more harm then good for a civilian (make you feel too secure)? What "Level" is appropriate?
The one I am considering would be Level III-A and "Stab 2". Appears that III-A is not much heavier or thicker then II.
A few thoughts on ballistic vests.
First, in the case of an active intrusion into your home, you will very likely not have time to slip into your ballistic vest. It is a real bummer if the BG steps through the bedroom door with gun in hand while your vest is still over your face.
Now, if you have a job where you periodically, or routinely, place yourself at risk for armed attack; that is a different story. It that case, the expenditure may be worthwhile.
Second, you have to assess the threat level needed. This is done by factoring threat likelihood versus wearability and concealment.
More protection is always better. Levels I, II-A, II and III-A provide no protection against any but extreme range rifle fire. Level I is pretty much useless. II-A is adequate against most handgun rounds that you may encounter [most 9mm, .40 S&W, .357 and .45 acp and lower caliber] and shotgun slugs and buckshot. But, these vests are usually light weight, for wearability, and blunt trauma can be a problem. Level II and III-A are superior, but they still provide no protection against rifle rounds. Because of their thicker material, they handle blunt trauma better. All of these vests should be worn with a chest trauma plate to reduce the chance of a disabling hit to the sternum.
The level III and IV vests provide protection from many common rifle rounds. But, they are bulky and heavy and can not be concealed to any real degree.
So, you have to decide on the likely top limit of your threat spectrum and then on your desired use. If you wish to use the vest concealed, you will probably have to sacrifice some threat protection. If not, then the sky is the limit.
Now we get to cost. About the cheapest ballistic vest is going to run you $400, with the average running around $500-$600 for adequate torso coverage. Once you step up to level III or IV, the price jumps to around $800+, depending on what extras you want to add.
The real question is not whether you need a ballistic vest or not, but rather will you have it on when you need it? Ballistic vests are hot. They are manufactured to be virtually waterproof to meet National Institute of Justice standards. They are uncomfortable. The panels are stiff and the carriers are restrictive. Unless you sacrifice a good deal of midrift protection, they are very uncomfortable to wear while sitting [especially in a vehicle]. The biggest problem faced by law enforcement agencies [virtually all of which ISSUE their enforcement personnel vests] is getting their personnel to WEAR the darn things. Level III and IV vests are also difficult or impossible to conceal, depending on carrier type.
If you do not intend to wear the thing regularly, many vest suppliers sell LE trade-ins [
http://www.bulletproofme.com/Bullet_proof_Vests_Catalog.shtml : this just an example, I do not endorse this company or any other]. The prices are about 30% less than new and some of these vests have never been worn. Most agencies replace their issued vests every 5 years as recommended by the manufacturers.
A vest can save your life, but only if you have it on when you need it.
I hope this helps.
P.S.: Concerning facing a felony for wearing a ballistic vest if a shooting is ruled unjustifed, I wouldn't worry about that. If the shooting is unjustified, it is illegal and therefor a crime. Aggravated assault [where you miss your target] is a 3rd degree felony. Aggravated battery, attempted homicide or even homicide are all even higher felonies. If the shooting is unjustifiable, you're screwed anyway.
