A recent report published by Spherical Insights & Consulting predicts that the global bulletproof jackets market will increase from USD 1.30 billion in 2021 to USD 2.49 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of 7.5%. Increasing demand for lightweight body armor from end-use industries including law enforcement, security, defense, and civilians is anticipated to fuel development in the bullet proof jackets and bullet proof clothing market.
What is driving this unprecedented growth in the bullet proof backpack, clothing, and vest markets?
The Rise of Violence in America
There is no simple explanation for why people resort to violence. Even after decades of investigation by philosophers, historians, and scientists, no conclusive solutions have been found. There are many different factors that contribute to an individual committing an act of violence. The precise combination of elements relies on both the person and the situation. It’s hard enough trying to make sense of acts of violence after they’ve already happened.
Assessing a danger and preventing it from being carried out are two separate and equally difficult tasks, as is ensuring the personal protection of self and those they are about the most.
Among those measures making its way into mainstream adoption, is the use of bulletproof vests, bulletproof backpacks, and ballistic clothing.
A Shifting Paradigm in Risk Management
In the wake of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic there has been a massive shift in the way companies, organizations, government, and citizens assess and address risk.
An unprecedented increase in joblessness and disruption in economic activity have placed increased pressure on the financial stability of businesses and consumers alike. Constant geopolitical conflicts, worldwide trade battles, grain shortages, rising fuel costs, natural disasters, and inflation further add to the difficulty of managing and monitoring risk.
As a result of the present socioeconomic and geopolitical climate, chief risk officers and their teams, as well as average everyday Americans, have had to re-evaluate and adjust their prior approaches to risk management and protecting not only their assets but themselves and their families.
Today, these factors and more are driving crime, assaults, and acts of terrorism both domestically and abroad, leaving Americans concerned about the personal safety of themselves and those they love.
As a result, many individuals are turning to forms of self-defense and bodily protection once reserved for law enforcement and military, including but not limited to the use of bulletproof vests, clothing, and bulletproof backpacks.
American Schools and Events: A Virtual Battleground
Among the most pressing fears in America is the virtual epidemic of school shootings and attacks on elementary, high school, and college campuses, as well as mass casualties at public events across the nation.
According to the Gun Violence Archive, 693 mass shootings were place in the United States in 2021. With the previous year accounting for 611 incidents.
By April of 2022, 212 mass shootings have already taken place in America, many of which occurred on school grounds or campuses, according to the Gun Violence Archive, an independent data gathering group.
*For the purposes of these reports, a mass shooting is defined as a situation in which four or more individuals were shot or killed (not including the gunman).
Featured Reviews of the Best Bulletproof Backpacks
Protective accessories designed to protect the wearer from ballistic threats are increasing in popularity, with the use of bulletproof backpacks and other bullet proof technology going mainstream.
With riots, shootings, assaults, terrorism and crime on the rise, citizens are taking a proactive stance when it comes to the safety of themselves and those they love. No longer are bulletproof vests and ballistic shields reserved only for frontline responders. Today, a wide range of stealthy, economical, and practical solutions exist for the savvy modern day consumer.
The Bulletproof Backpack
There are many different types of personal protective gear on the market these days. But one of the most popular and effective items is the bulletproof backpack. This type of backpack can provide a high level of protection against a variety of threats, including firearms.
While not foolproof, these specially designed packs can provide an extra layer of protection for children and even adults. In the event of a ballistic attack or threat, ranging from explosives to gunshots or even knife attacks, these backpacks can mean the difference between life and death.
There are a number of companies that make bulletproof backpacks, and they come in a variety of styles and colors to suit personal preferences. Some are designed to look like regular backpacks, while others are more obvious in their purpose. They can be made of the same material used in bulletproof vests, or other ballistic materials engineered to provide adequate protection from a range of threats.
The cost of a bulletproof backpack varies, but they are generally affordable, lasting for years and providing the peace of mind that comes with knowing their loved ones are protected in the event of an incident.
Some schools are even contemplating requiring students to wear bulletproof backpacks, and there are some states that are considering making them mandatory. While there is no guarantee that a bulletproof backpack will save someone’s life, the ballistic defense technology utilized in these backpacks has been a staple in military and law enforcement applications for decades.
What Are Bulletproof Backpacks Made of?
Bulletproof backpacks are made from a variety of materials which have high-strength, synthetic fiber. The material is woven into a tight, thick fabric that can stop a bullet from penetrating. bulletproof backpack can also be made from other materials, such as steel or ceramic plates.
The first layer often forms the outer shell of the backpack, which is woven in a basket-weave pattern. This layer is resistant to punctures and tears, and is what will actually stop the bullet. The next layer is made up of panels that are sewn together. This layer is designed to actually absorb the impact of the bullet, and to spread the force of the impact over a larger area.
The last layer is a backing material that is usually made of a thicker fabric or a ballistic nylon. This layer is important because it provides stability to the backpack and prevents the vest from tearing.
Ballistic nylon is a very strong and durable fabric that is often used in the construction of bulletproof vests. The fabric is made up of a number of nylon fibers that are tightly woven together. This makes the fabric incredibly resistant to tearing, and it also makes it very good at stopping bullets.
There’s a primary material used in the construction of bulletproof backpacks, but there are other materials that can be used as well. for example, some vests also contain hard shell ballistic plates that are inserted into the vest. These plates provide a greater degree of protection against high velocity or close proximity threats.
What Level of Protection Do Bulletproof Backpacks Provide?
The level of protection provided by a bulletproof backpack depends on a number of factors, including the type of material used, the thickness of the backpack, and the type of ammunition being used.
Ballistic protection is ranked by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) into five levels: Level IIA, Level II, Level IIIA, Level III, and Level IV. Commercially available armor is tested to verify it fulfills these requirements, which were originally established in 1972.
Only the Level III and Level IV bulletproof backpacks are effective against rifle fire. As a general rule, Level IIIA bulletproof inserts and backpacks are effective against 9 m, .44 Magnum, and other common pistol rounds.
Bulletproof Backpacks: Protection and Peace of Mind
A bulletproof backpack is an essential piece of equipment for students and children in today’s world. Here are some of the benefits of owning a bulletproof backpack.
Safety
Obviously, the primary benefit of a bulletproof backpack is safety. In the event of a school shooting, a bulletproof backpack can literally save your child’s life.
Peace of Mind
As a parent, it’s impossible not to worry about the safety of children at school and out in the world. A bulletproof backpack can give parents peace of mind knowing that their child has an extra layer of protection in a worst-case scenario. Similarly, workplace violence and social unrest are leaving adults uneasy as well, with bulletproof backpacks adding to a sense of confidence at work, running errands, or at public events.
Discreet
Bulletproof backpacks are designed to look and operate just like regular backpacks, adding a level of discretion and security. Not only does this aid in shuttering public bias or judgement for being hyper-cautious, it also ensures wearers of bullet proof items blend into the crowd and don’t stand out as a target.
Affordable
Bulletproof backpacks are surprisingly affordable, with modern advancements in engineering and increased demand for production driving costs down. Gone are the days when personal protective wear was affordable only to the most affluent of individuals.
Convenient
Bulletproof backpacks are much more convenient than bulletproof vests. Designed with comfort and utility in mind, these backpacks are easy to wear for hours on end, leaving the individual with their full range of motion and feeling unencumbered to live their day to day lives.
Lightweight
Unlike bulky ballistic equipment of the past, bulletproof backpacks are made from lightweight materials. In tactical situations it is often said that every ounce counts. This mantra speaks to the fact that speed, agility, and maneuverability, as well as fatigue all play a big role in survival scenarios.
Stylish
Bulletproof backpacks come in a variety of styles and colors to fit any occasion or personal preference. The rich diversity of options has been a key driver in demand, with bullet proof backpacks of all shapes and aesthetics making them more adaptable for everyday use.
Versatile
Unlike other ballistic gear, bullet proof backpacks offer a wealth of versatility. They can be used when hiking, shopping, at school, at work, running errands, or at social occasions. Given how common the use of backpacks is, no one will bat an eye seeing them in any number of settings. More than that, bulletproof backpacks can be used as a shield and positioned to cover areas of the body that may be more susceptible to injury.
It’s a Scary World Out There, But Bullet Proof Backpacks and Other Types of Protective Gear Make it Easier to Enjoy Life with Less Worry
The world we live in today is far from perfect. Each day the news is filled with disturbing headlines of school and mass shootings, assaults, violence, and acts of terrorism.
No parent wants to think about their child being in danger, or that the next public event they attend could be their last, but it’s a sad reality that modern Americans have to face.
Ultimately, the personal safety of one’s self and those they love is up to them, and taking a proactive approach to safety is something each American should take seriously. From situational awareness and best practices, to knowing escape routes and safety protocols ahead of time, there are a multitude of avenues individuals can explore to keep themselves and their families out of harm’s way.
One simple to adopt solution includes the use of protective wear, including bulletproof backpacks. Bulletproof backpacks offer an extra layer of protection for adults and children alike, providing peace of mind in an uncertain world. While protective wear does little to prevent a tragedy from happening, a bulletproof backpack may mean the difference between life and death.
Despite their limitations, bulletproof backpacks are still an incredibly effective tool for personal protection, significantly increasing the chances of surviving an attack. Utilizing the same technology employed by law enforcement and military applications, these backpacks have stood up to NIJ testing certifications and have proven capable of offering protection from a wide range of ballistic threats, as well as from explosive or knife attacks.
Those considering the purchase of a bulletproof backpack should make sure the product is NIJ certified or rated, as well as evaluate other key factors including fit, design, wearability, weight, and price.
