Police Officer Preparation & Law Enforcement Resource - Archive

Hello and thank you in advance for all advice/opinions.

I work for a municipal television station and the city is going to start a "Cops-like" television program. I've been on ride-alongs before and in the past, I've always been able to borrow a vest. Because it looks like I'll be doing this quite often, I'd like to make sure I have access to one all of the time. Any suggestions on a vest for me?

Items of note:
- I'm looking for something light-ish as I will be hauling around a decent sized camera and will probably need to run a bit, too.

- I'm an average sized female (140lb. range) so maybe some of the women have good suggestions?

- Cost really isn't a HUGE factor as the City will be purchasing the vest for our department to have.

Thanks again!

Did they gvie you any information or say any kind of requirements of getting a vest?

If cost isn't an option, the Armor Express Seraph. I'm pretty sure it is the lightest 3A vest on the market. I have one and love it.

I would start by recommending you get a level 3A, which is the highest level of protection in a concealable vest. All 3As offer the same proctection in order to get the 3A rating, the difference in price is because the more expensive vests offer a thinner, more comfortable package with the same level of protection.

Since you aren't doing any actual police work, you would probably be okay with a lower level, but if the city is paying the bill, you might as well get the best vest you can.

Thanks for the info, I'll definitely have to check that one out. There aren't any specific requirements. I am primarily getting this due to safety concerns brought up by my boss and his boss. I've asked a couple of guys around the department, but I want to really do my homework on this.

Vests are HOT in the summer but nice in the winter. Make sure you are going to wear it if you are going to get one. There are plenty of places to get vests but you should be MEASURED like you are getting a custom made suit , dont just buy one like you buy a blouse.

Until I started looking into it, I had no idea that vests should be custom fitted. I am so used to borrowing them that I had never even thought of it. I noticed that a few people had recommended getting one fitted to me...should be interesting.