Some people look for the extended protection of body armor jackets. These generally have sleeves, or at least are continued over the shoulders, so they give more protection than regular ballistic vests. Nowadays you're just as likely to find a civilian wearing body armor as you are a soldier or policeman. People everywhere have discovered that these garments can provide a significant level of safety while they're going about their business.

You might be forgiven for thinking that high profile individuals, such as politicians, executives, or even media or sports personalities, would be the most likely candidates. But you can find lots of trade people, or anyone who is regularly in contact with the public, who find that wearing body armor jackets gives them the security they need. If you are included in this group, make sure that the level of protection provided by your body armor specifically includes the threat from stabbing.

On the streets you're just as likely to get stabbed or attacked with a sharp implement as you are to get shot so this is an important point. To be effective, body armor jackets need to be chosen with the particular threat or threats involved in mind. The levels of protection available go from I right up to IV.

A II, IIA, III or IIIA are the levels most often chosen. But even a I will provide some protection. While picking the lowest level of body armor jackets will give you a lot of mobility and comfort, they will be largely ineffective against a high-velocity rife, for example. You will need a much higher level of protection for that. On the other hand, a level I will protect you against blunt trauma attacks. Most people who can afford it tend to go for the maximum protection, since they're buying protective clothing anyway.