Luotiliiveissä

Luotiliiveissä, often translated as "bulletproof vests" or "body armor," are pieces of protective clothing designed to absorb the impact of bullets and shrapnel from firearms and explosions, respectively. They are typically worn by military personnel, law enforcement officers, and security guards, though civilian use is also increasing. The effectiveness of luotiliiveissä varies depending on the type and level of protection they offer.

The construction of luotiliiveissä involves layers of strong fibers, such as Kevlar or Dyneema, which are woven tightly together. These materials are chosen for their high tensile strength, meaning they can withstand significant pulling force without breaking. When a bullet strikes the vest, the fibers spread the impact force over a larger area, reducing the energy transferred to the wearer's body and preventing penetration. In some cases, rigid plates made of ceramic or metal may be incorporated to provide protection against higher-velocity rounds or rifle fire.

Luotiliiveissä are classified according to standardized ballistic protection levels, such as those established by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) in the United States. These levels indicate the types of ammunition the vest is designed to stop. For example, a Level IIIA vest is designed to stop most handgun rounds, while a Level III or IV vest, incorporating hard armor plates, can stop rifle rounds. It's important to note that no body armor is truly "bulletproof"; rather, it is "bullet-resistant," offering a significant reduction in the risk of injury or death from firearm projectiles.