Body Armor: Who Can Buy It and Where Can It Be Worn?
Body Armor: Who Can Buy It and Where Can It Be Worn?
Body armor is a piece of protective equipment designed to provide protection to the wearer from bullets and other forms of ballistic threats. The use of this armor has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among law enforcement officers and security personnel. However, many people often wonder if it is illegal for civilians to purchase and use.
Body armor is typically classified into different levels based on the level of protection it provides. The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) has established standards for body armor levels, which include:
-Level I and II-A armor: designed to protect against small caliber handguns
- Level II and III-A armor: designed to protect against larger caliber handguns and some rifle rounds
- Level III and IV armor: designed to protect against high-powered rifle rounds
Can Civilians Buy Body Armor?
In the United States, it is not illegal to purchase body armor. There are no federal laws that prohibit the purchase or ownership by civilians. However, some states have specific laws regulating the sale and use. These laws vary from state to state and may include restrictions on who can purchase armor and what types of armor are legal.
It is also important to note that while it may be legal to purchase, it is illegal to use it in the commission of a crime, such as a crime of violence. If a person wearing body armor commits a crime, they can face additional charges and penalties.
California Laws
In California, it is legal to purchase and own body armor without a permit or background check. However, it is illegal for convicted felons to possess under California Penal Code Section 31360.
Additionally, it is illegal to wear or possess body armor while committing a violent crime or attempting to commit a violent crime under California Penal Code Section 12022.2.
It's important to note that while owning it is legal, certain types of armor, such as those that are designed for military use or that have been modified to be more dangerous, are prohibited under federal law. It is important to ensure that any armor you purchase is legal and in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
Additional Body Armor Laws
The Illinois House Bill 3238, if passed, Amends the Criminal Code of 2012. It states that, with certain exceptions, it is unlawful for any person within the State to knowingly manufacture, deliver, sell, import, purchase or cause to be manufactured, delivered, sold, imported, or purchased by another, an armor plate, body armor, or military helmet. This bill would essentially make it illegal to buy or own body armor.
In Connecticut, it is legal to purchase and own body armor without a permit or background check, however the sale or transfer must be completed in person, as “it is a class B punishable by imprisonment for up to six months, a fine of up to $1,000, or both, to sell or deliver body armor unless the transferee meets in person with the transferor to accomplish the sale or delivery” (Source). Connecticut requires face to face transactions to buy or sell body armor.
Can You Wear Armor in Public?
Yes, in most places it is legal to wear in public as long as it is worn for a legitimate purpose and not in the commission of a crime.
However, some states and local jurisdictions have specific regulations regarding the use and possession of body armor. Some may restrict the wearing of it in certain locations or situations, such as in schools or government buildings.
It's important to check your local laws and regulations before wearing it in public to ensure that you are not breaking any laws or regulations. Additionally, wearing body armor in certain situations may draw unwanted attention or raise safety concerns, so it is important to use good judgement and be aware of your surroundings.
While it is legal to purchase in most states, there may be restrictions on who can purchase it and what types of armor are legal. It is important to research the laws in your state before purchasing body armor to avoid any legal issues. Additionally, it is illegal to use it in the commission of a crime, and those who do so can face additional charges and penalties.
