The tactical vest is one of the well known and advanced forms of a bullet vest. It is mainly an American version of the body armor and has gained popularity among the defense forces as well as civilians. The tactical vest is also known as the Modular Tactical Vest or MTV. It was first developed in the year 2006 for the United States Marine Corps. The main motive of the manufacture of this kind of body armor was to make an improved version of the conventional forms of bullet proof vests. This new version was incorporated into the Marine Corps forces after hi tech examination and tests. Compared to the other types of bullet vests, the new form of tactical vest provides better and more effective prevention against bullets, pellet and shrapnel from guns and explosives. It uses the same Small Arms Protective Insert or SAPI plates which make it hassle free as well.
Normally the tactical vest or bullet vest has the weight of around 30 pounds. This is around three times more than the conventional bullet proof vests. However, this does not make it so heavy and the wearer does feel much difficulty. The vest is designed in such a way that the weight is distributed equally all over the body of the wearer.
There is also a removable collar in the tactical vest. The removable option makes it very easy for the wearer to remove the collar in case of emergencies. Another big advantage of the collar is that is weighs less than half of the collars of the other types of bullet vests. There are exterior plate pockets as well as improved head dispersion system. The fabric from which the vest is made can also withstand burning and can also dry up quickly. Usually, the vests come with various colors such as navy, tan, black and white.
After recent tests and examinations, the decision was taken by the Marine Corps board to make more advanced models of the tactical vest called bullet vest, which would include some modifications. This will lead to better prevention, comfort and mobility. Some of the modifications will consist of:
- The lower back portion of the body and also the shoulders and the side torso areas will be more covered unlike the other model. This will protect the organs in those parts of the body.
- The new model should have a better quick release system which will help the soldiers to quickly open the vest in case of emergency situations.
- There will be improved integrated channels which will assist in better communication among the marines.
- A rifle bolster will be included where the marines can keep their rifles
- There will be improved SAPI pouches in the new model
The fact that makes the tactical vest more effective than other types of bullet vests is that it has a hook and pile “cummerbund” which is used to tightly hold the vest around the waist and the torso area. A buckle is also provided on top of the shoulders for more protection. When the wearer pulls the vest firmly, the cord or string of the cummerbund separates into two halves so that the vest can be quickly opened. Similarly, the buckles which are located on top of the shoulders can also be easily unfastened and opened in pieces.
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