Can Civilians Own Level IV Body Armor?

Yes, civilians can indeed own Level IV body armor. I can vouch for this as someone who personally possesses a set of Level IV armor plates and several steel gong targets rated at the same level. Body armor, at its core, is merely heavy protective clothing designed to safeguard against ballistic threats. Most states in the U.S. do not have strict restrictions on body armor for civilians. However, laws often aim to prevent felons from accessing these protective measures.

Body Armor Legislation

Many states have laws that regulate body armor, but these laws are primarily focused on preventing felons from procuring it. These measures are based on the assumption that body armor, especially high-level armor like Level IV, could be used in criminal activities. The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) categorizes body armor into several levels, but not all states are aware of these distinctions.

For civilians, the legal landscape is generally more permissive. That being said, the legal or cultural ramifications for getting caught might be a different issue entirely. It's worth noting that NIJ levels refer to specific ballistic specifications, and civilian body armor is not subject to the same scrutiny as armor intended for law enforcement or military use.

DIY Body Armor

If you find it legally challenging to obtain Level IV body armor, you can always make your own. Using materials like AR450 or 500 steel, which is known for its high ballistic resistance, you can create your own personalized body armor. With thicknesses ranging from 1/8 to 1/2 inch, depending on the threat level, you can tailor your homemade armor to your specific needs.

To make your homemade body armor plausible, it's wise to decorate it in a way that makes it appear aesthetic rather than functional. This way, you can avoid suspicion and legal entanglements. Homemade body armor is so easy to create that laws attempting to control it are often ineffective. After all, everything that is bullet-resistant can be scaled, just like pillows can be made of several hundred hard steel pieces, each a fraction of an inch thick.

Conclusion

In summary, civilians have the right to own Level IV body armor. While laws may prevent felons from obtaining these protective measures, they are generally not a barrier for law-abiding citizens. If you want to own or create your own Level IV body armor, just ensure it passes the aesthetic test and avoid drawing unnecessary attention. Crafting your own body armor can be a rewarding and practical solution, even if legal control over such materials is a challenging task.