Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
During the hustle and bustle of the 2024 Shot Show, we caught up with Jim from Safariland, nestled among the latest in tactical gear and defense technology. We dove into a discussion about their latest innovation in law enforcement gear: the APEX body armor system.
APEX isn’t your run-of-the-mill body armor. It’s a leap forward in design and comfort for those who protect our streets. Picture this: a body armor vest that moves with you, not against you. That’s APEX for you.
Jim explained that traditional body armor, around since the ’70s, uses velcro and elastic straps. Effective, yes, but comfortable? Far from it. It’s like wearing the most uncomfortable vest ever. Officers constantly tug at their vests, trying to keep them in place while they’re on the move or walking the beat.
Enter APEX. It’s made entirely of compression material, which means it hugs the body like a workout outfit. Think of it as the yoga pants of body armor – but for your torso. This design takes the weight off your shoulders (literally) and distributes it evenly, making it feel lighter and less burdensome.
The real game-changer here is the four-piece system. The vest has front and back panels, and two side panels, creating a floating effect. This means no binding, no gaps, and no riding up. It’s all about movement without restriction.
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As for the weight? It varies depending on the ballistic package, but Jim assures us it’s on the lighter side. You can choose from level 2 or level 3A ballistic packages, ensuring you get the protection you need without the extra bulk.
Now, for the practical details: donning and doffing this gear is a breeze with its front zip system. Plus, it’s lockable for extra security. And for those in the line of fire, there are integrated front and rear trauma plate pockets.
If you’re wondering when you can get your hands on APEX, it’s already out there. Safariland launched it at the Shot Show, and they’re ready to take orders.
For more information, just hop over to safariland.com. You’ll find all the details on the APEX product page, including how to get in touch with a distributor.
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Illinois PICA Code
{Amends the Criminal Code of 2012. Provides that, with certain exceptions, it is unlawful for any person within the State to knowingly manufacture, deliver, sell, import, or purchase or cause to be manufactured, delivered, sold, imported, or purchased by another, an armor plate, body armor, or military helmet. Provides that, with certain exceptions, beginning January 1, 2024, it is unlawful for any person within this State to knowingly possess an armor plate, body armor, or military helmet. Provides that this provision does not apply to a person’s possession of an armor plate, body armor, or military helmet if the person lawfully possessed that armor plate, body armor, or military helmet prohibited by this provision, if the person has provided in an endorsement affidavit, within 6 months after the effective date of the amendatory Act, under oath or affirmation and in the form and manner prescribed by the Illinois State Police: (1) an affirmation that the affiant: (i) possessed an armor plate, body armor, or military helmet before the effective date of the amendatory Act; or (ii) inherited the armor plate, body armor, or military helmet from a person with an endorsement or from a person authorized to possess the armor plate, body armor, or military helmet possessed by the affiant prior to the effective date of the amendatory Act. Provides exemptions. Provides that a violation of these provisions is a Class A misdemeanor for a first offense and a Class 4 felony for a second or subsequent offense.}
No freedom for you!! It’s a shame Illinois has joined the combloc states of California, NY, etc.