Frequently Asked Questions

BULLET RESISTANT VEST

Does a bullet proof vest provides protection against Level III-A and Stab by default?

A bulletproof vest is designed to capture a projectile, and provides protection against Level III-A- 9mm and .44 mag and by default it’s NOT stab proof as it’s an additional and you need to mention it specifically if it’s required. Also, If the vest is bullet and stab proof it will be described on the label of the vest.

Can you use used/old bulletproof Vest?

You must NEVER buy a used bulletproof vest, or stab proof vest. You never know what the vest has been exposed to, and there is also no guarantee that the vest works.

Does Bulletproof Vest gets expired in 5 years?

Generally bulletproof vest has a predetermined life expectancy of 5 years. But there are several factors that come into play. The NIJ has conducted a study which shows that factors such as: How much has the vest been used - How has it been maintained – If the vest has fit properly (most people lose/gain weight over the years) - and whether it is generally worn down, what the straps look like, who has worn it. So keep all the above factors in mind one can decide the condition of Vest.

Is it illegal to buy Bulletproof Vest?

It is not illegal to buy a bulletproof or stab proof, but one need to check with their own country if it is legal to wear or if there are any restrictions.

Why you should choose Hard Shell Vest?

Hard Shell manufactures high quality bulletproof vest a as per NIJ standards. The vests offers not only comfort but safety and all of the features at an unbeatable price. Hard Shell Vest is one of the best value in bulletproof vests.

What are the sizes available in Hard Shell Vest?

The Standard vest size available is: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL and 4XL. However it can be customised as per customer’s requirement.

How do I know what size to order?

Please refer to the sizing/measurement instructions for required item available on our website. For the best fit, please order your true size. Still, If you have any questions or concerns with sizing, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Are your bulletproof clothes comfortable? Easily concealed?

Our vest is made with flexible, good quality fabric that is ideal for even the warmest weather. Please keep in mind that the concealability depends on body type, clothing material, and properly fitted body armor.

Why is a bullet proof vest not stab proof?

A bullet proof vest is as default designed to stop bullets, and not stab or spike instruments. For a bullet proof vest to be stab proof as well, it needs to be able to stop the lowest stab resistant level, which for both HOSDB and NIJ is 24 (E1)/36(E2) joules from a engineered blade.

Is there option of using side panels in Vest?

Yes, as per your requirement and depending on Threat Perception oce can use the side plates as well, standard size of side plate offered by Hrad Shell is 6”x8”

What is Overt and Covert body armor?

Covert body armor means that the vest is designed to be concealable and vice versa overt body armor that the bullet proof vest is made to be worn above clothing.

HARD ARMOUR PANELS

What is Ballistic plates (hard armor) ?

Hard armor, or ballistic plates are hard plates often made of compressed polyethylene or ceramic composite used to stop more powerful projectiles than a .44 Magnum

What is the standard size of Ballistic plates?

They are primarily made in the size of 30x25 cm, in a flat, single or multi curved shape.

When should I use hard armor plates?

Hard armor plates are used to stop threats from high-speed projectiles from machine guns and rifles, including; AR-15, NATO, AK47 and the like. As a starting point, it is not necessary to use ballistic hard armor plates if you only need protection from small arms. However if you need protection from high-speed calibers from rifles and machine guns, ballistic plates are a necessity

TESTING & TECHNICAL DETAILS

Are your products tested?

Yes, our products are tested from International Laboratories like H.P. White’s Laboratory, Whitshire, NIJ and test reports can be provided on request. Also, our company is listed on NIJ Website. Please click here https://www.justnet.org/compliant/ballistic_cpl.html to view details.

Can I get the Test Report of products I am purchasing from you

Yes, you are free to ask for the reports any moment for the products we will be offering you. As all products are made using high quality raw material and certified in International Laboratories.

What is Blunt Force Trauma ?

Blunt force trauma or blunt trauma is the damage your internal organs will have on a bullet impact. The maximum depth of which must be less than 44 mm. according to the NIJ standard 0101.06. At the same time, the term is also used in relation to Body armor that provides a good blunt force trauma against batons, baseball bats and similar blunt force objects where the stab proof vest more or less stops the blunt force trauma from the hitting object.

What is BFS/BFD? (Back face signature/Back face deformation)

Back face signature and Back face deformation are usually the terms used to describe the depth of the bullet impact. Back face Signature/Deformation is the depth into the “body” when a bullet strikes the bullet proof vest. For bullet proof vests according to NIJ standard 0101.06, the depth of a bullet impact needs to be less than 44 mm. According to HOSDB and the German Schutzklasse Standard Edition 2008, the depth cannot exceed 25 mm for HOSDB.

What is V50?

The V50 test is used to measure the resistance of a material against fragments. The standard was originally made for bullet proof helmets, but today it is used for all situations where fragments can occur. It is also used for bullet proof vests, riot equipment and ballistic plates.

What is NIJ?

There are several different standards for ballistics protection levels. The most commonly recognized standard for body armor is the US National Institute of Justice (NIJ). This is considered to be the industry Standard for testing body armor. The NIJ standards outline exactly what threats each level of body armor will protect against, as well as the strength of the attack it will stop.

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN

Are your products made in the UAE?

Most of our products are manufactured in UAE and on purchasing from UAE you can get Certificate of Origin as well. Also, please note that other than UAE we have facilities in USA, Asia, Turkey.

SHIPPING

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, we provide worldwide shipping however there are documents required in order to export, which we can advise once we know the Final Country of Destination. Also, you can consult your own government to check on body armor import regulations in your country including estimated import duties and taxes.

What are the shipping rates?

Shipping rate is completely dependent on the location and volume required, so we need to know these in order to advise on Estimated Shipping/ Freight charges. Also, if the customers wants they can arrange the pickup or utilize there Global account details for pickup.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, we provide worldwide shipping however there are documents required in order to export, which we can advise once we know the Final Country of Destination. Also, you can consult your own government to check on body armor import regulations in your country including estimated import duties and taxes.

How long will it take for my order to ship?

It usually takes 2-3 business weeks. A majority of our products are custom-made at the time you place your order and must pass rigorous quality assurance test before they leave our facility. We pride ourselves in delivering the highest quality products to our customers, and appreciate your understanding.

Do you offer expedited or overnight shipping?

Due to the unique nature of the products we sell, there are various items which are Ex-stock so if you choose the products from ex-stock we can initiate the order urgently however transit time will be dependent on courier/ shipping service used.

CLEANING AND CARE INSTRUCTIONS

How do I clean my bulletproof product?

Most panels are removable except for ballistic packs which sewn is in panels. Remove the bulletproof panels and clean it with a damp cloth. All clothing can be cleaned per the instructional tag once the panels are removed.

How can I Clean my Carrier?

We suggest trying to clean your Carrier with a soft cloth with water and mild cleaning solution like hand soap, baby soap, or shampoo. IMPORTANT: We recommend not drying your plate carrier in direct sunlight as it can speed up the fading of the carrier, unless, of course, that is your goal.

GENERAL QUESTIONS

Can I Own Body Armor?

We sell to all responsible law-abiding Civilians, Law Enforcement Officers, and Military Personnel. Also, there are documents required in order to purchase these Body Armour so we can offer our products only to those who can provide required paperwork

Can I have your Brochure?

Please see below the link of our Company Brochure highlighting on all the product range. Please feel free to Contact us in case of any clarifications. Link: https://www.hardshell.ae/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/hardshell-ebrochure.pdf

What is your contact details?

Feel free to reach us on enquiry@hardshell.ae Also, please feel free to call us on +971506339794

Do you have any social Presence?

Yes, feel free to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram , You Tube for updates and offers