Are bulletproof vests really bulletproof?
No, more like “bullet-resistent.” What makes a bulletproof vest “bulletproof” is the assumption (made by statistical sample,) that most officer-involved shootings: a) involve low-powered or medium-powered handguns using b) low-powered or underpowered ammunition, c) at medium range. If you use a high-power firearm (.44 Magnum, for example,) with high-powered ammunition (++P+ rated ammo, for example) at VERY close range, the bullet will probably penetrate the vest. Also, most high-speed rifle rounds will penetrate a bulletproof vest.
They are bullet resistant. Nothing is truly bulletproof. Depending on the rating of the vest, it will stop some rounds, but not stop others. Unless rated otherwise, usually won’t stop knives or pointed instruments, they won’t stop any centerfire rifle round unless it has strike plates to do that, and even then they have ratings of what rifle rounds they will stop. Some won’t stop certain high velocity pistol rounds, not even rated for armor piercing. The 7.62×25 Tokarev and the FN 5.7x28mm rounds are known to do that due to sheer velocity of the rounds alone, not the construction of the round. You’ll find more detailed info here: http://www.bulletproofme.
There is no such thing as bulletproof. Only bullet resistant. Vests have different ratings that indicate the level of protection it can provide. From wikipedia: Due to the various different types of projectile, it is often inaccurate to refer to a particular product as “bulletproof” because this implies that it will protect against any and all threats. Instead, the term bullet resistant is generally preferred.
