Law Enforcement Technology

AUG 2017

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32 LAW ENFORCEMENT TECHNOLOGY AUGUST 2017 www.officer.com U NIF O R M S A N D B O D Y A R M O R offer more mobility since the vest is not tucked into the uniform pants. The weight of the vest is important, too, as it can help or hinder fatigue over the course of a long shift. The weight of each piece of gear can cause back pain over time. A lighter vest leads to less chance of discomfort. The Frisco Police Department in Frisco, Texas equips its officers with two types of body armor from Point Blank. "We use a level two soft vest with the capability of stopping bullets from pis- tols," says Sergeant Jeff Inmon. The Frisco PD also implements a steel plate, level III vest with the ability to stop rifle rounds. Point Blank offers a variety of choices for departments including newer items such as integrating lami- nated material that is both light and strong. "It is stronger than the conven- tional Cordura nylon, reducing weight and increasing durability," says Allan Thompson, product line manager of Point Blank. "This new laminated mate- rial allows PBE to produce designs that have laser cut features that allow us to eliminate conventional MOLLE web- bing attachments." The Bikini Plate Carrier (BPC) is one example of the implementation of a laser-cut design. Thompson says it is approximately one third of the weight of a conventional plate carrier but retains durability. Another important element of body armor is the consideration of climate. Climate and wear are some of the deter- mining factors for a time period when body armor must be replaced. For the Frisco PD, vests are replaced depending on what type it is. "Our soft body armor is replaced every four to five years," says Sergeant Inmon. "Hard armor is replaced every ten." The average time suggested to replace body armor is every five years. "This is because the National Institute of Justice determined that there are too many environmental factors involving use and storage of body armor across the U.S. continent to allow for every variable," says Thompson. Some armor may be used in a humid terrain, while others are exposed to extreme cold, or extreme heat, therefore an overall stan- dard has been placed. On top of the desire for functional, lightweight armor, agencies are also looking for customization. Instead of The TORC is a versatile plate carrier system designed to meet the demands of today's Law Enforcement Operations & Tactical Teams. Combine it with a ballistic shield, hard armor plates, and a VPAM-certified ballistic helmet for the ultimate level of protection. Visit our website to learn more: ARMOREXPRESS.COM FEATURING | QUICK RELEASE - & - COBRA® CUMMERBUND | TECHNOLOGY TORC| TACTICAL OPERATIONS RESPONSE CARRIER Circle 35 on Reader Service Card The Bikini Plate Carrier by Point Blank is laser cut and extremely lightweight.

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