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First Responder Vest - Level IIIA

FIRST-RESPONDER-BLACK-SMALL

nij iconNIJ Certified
body armor vest iconLevel IIIA
360 number in rotating arrow360 Coverage
5 sizes5 Convenient sizes
rugged mountain iconDuty-Rated Durability
pocket iconUtility Pocket
Size
Color
Black
Red


Sizing Guide
Ballistic Chart

Bulletproof Tactical Vest for First Responders & EMS Personnel – Level IIIA

*Made to order & ships within 6-8 weeks

Features

  • Includes NIJ Level IIIA Premier Body Armor ballistic panels
  • Removable front and back ID patches
  • Elastic stretch side closure and adjustable shoulder straps
  • Adjustable internal cummerbund for flexibility
  • Rugged 600 Denier Polyester Carrier (Red)
  • Recommended for First Responders and Firearms Instructors
  • 5-year armor warranty
  • 2-year carrier warranty

all materials & products sourced & manufactured in the usa

Rating & Testing

The First Responder Vest is NIJ Certified Level 3A protection. To learn more about the NIJ body armor standards, visit our Understanding Body Armor Ratings blog.

A chart titled "Premier Body Armor Stopping Power Levels, NIJ Level IIIA" illustrates the effectiveness of various bullet calibers compared to the protection offered by Premier Body Armor's First Responder Vest - Level IIIA. It indicates that 9mm, .357 SIG, .44 MAG, and 12 gauge are effectively stopped by this armor. Ideal for first responders using a bulletproof tactical vest.
Detailed ballistic resistance test report for Premier Body Armor’s First Responder Vest - Level IIIA. The panel describes the vest's setup, ammunition used, and standards for procedures. The sample shows various projectile details and test results—vital information for first responders seeking reliable protection.

Shipping

  • Made to order; Ships within 6-8 weeks
  • Connecticut & New York shipping restrictions
  • No international shipping at this time
  • Easy returns and exchange policy

Sizing

*This sizing chart is specific to this product. Other vests may fit differently. Please use the sizing chart on this page when choosing your First Responder Vest size.

The First Responder Vest is designed to fit true to size and available in size S-2XL. The elastic stretch side closure and adjustable shoulder straps ensure a perfect fit.sizing for the executive vest, designed to fit close to the body for highest concealability

Why First Responders Need Bulletproof Vests in Their Daily Equipment

When you think about the daily risks that first responders deal with, the importance of a reliable first responder bulletproof vest becomes abundantly clear. When dealing with crisis scenarios or rushing to a medical emergency, first responders need protection to do their job confidently and effectively. An EMS ballistic vest makes everyone safer. 

A ballistic vest first responder model is specifically designed to meet the needs of EMS personnel and other first responders. They should be bullet resistant, yet comfortable. First responders can tell the difference between a standard bullet proof vest and one that was designed with them in mind.

In the same way that a bulletproof vest protects vital organs, knowledge and preparation is arguably just as important in keeping everyone safe in crowded places. While first responders can quickly come to your aid in many situations, it is helpful for the average citizen to be proactive and stay safe in stadiums, concerts and festivals.


Why Should Fire and EMS Personnel Wear Bulletproof Vests?

Firefighters and EMS workers must regularly respond to emergencies where the threat level is unknown. A firefighter bulletproof vest is the only way to reliably protect against ballistic threats. First responders are at a much higher risk for these types of threats, and they can occur in any number of scenarios. 

An EMS bulletproof vest might seem less necessary than something like a law enforcement bullet proof vest, when in reality, it’s just as important. Ballistic protection gives first responders the confidence and security to focus on saving lives without having to worry about potential gunfire or sharp object injuries. The demand for first responder ballistic protection is due to the nature of these jobs, where many situations are unknown. It is simply not safe for first responders to do their jobs without access to a bulletproof vest of some kind. 

When it comes to EMS body armor, choosing the right type of protective gear is one decision that’s going to have a huge impact on performance and confidence. For detailed insights, check out our comprehensive guide on How to Choose the Best Body Armor.

Why Choose Premier Body Armor’s Bulletproof Vest for EMS and First Responders?

You recognize the importance of EMS body armor for these types of jobs. Now you need to decide which vest to bet on. A quick Google search reveals that this is not an easy process.

We offer top notch protection in a first responder bulletproof vest that simply can’t be matched by anyone else.

First of all, these vests were designed with insights from actual first respondersensuring that it was tailored to meet the needs of the people that were going to use it. 

  • Two (2) NIJ certified Level IIIA / HG2 ballistic panels for the front and back
  • Removable front and back ID patches
  • Elastic stretch side closure and adjustable shoulder straps for the perfect fit
  • Adjustable internal cummerbund for flexibility
  • Rugged 600 Denier Polyester Carrier (Red)
  • Recommended for First Responders and Firearms Instructors
  • 5-year armor warranty
  • 2-year carrier warranty


For more law enforcement vest options, call our customer service line so we can find the perfect option for you! Or, visit our GovX Military & First Responder Discount Page to save on every order.

Frequently Asked Questions About Our First Responder Tactical Bulletproof Vests

When it comes to safety equipment, you want to be fully confident. Here’s a list of frequently asked questions to help you understand why a bulletproof vest for EMS is an essential piece of gear. 

Who Should Consider Wearing a First Responder Bulletproof Vest at Work?

There are a lot of people that believe they can go without adequate ballistic protection because they don’t face ballistic threats on a day to day basis. The fact is, very few people that wear bulletproof vests are facing these threats regularly. That’s why we have more than just bulletproof vests for deputies. With that said, a bulletproof vest firefighters wear will look a lot different. 

Creating a fire rescue bulletproof vest means making sure the vest is ultra durable, maneuverable, and functional. On the other hand, bulletproof vests for security officers are optimized to be as maneuverable and discreet as possible.

For those involved in specialized roles such as K-9 units, our vests also extend to four-legged officers. More on this can be found on our bulletproof dog vest page.

How Effective Are Premier Body Armor’s Bulletproof Vests for EMS?

Any product that we put on the market is going to be something that we can confidently and proudly stand behind. Our bulletproof vests are engineered and tested with you in mind, and we make sure that our EMS ballistic vests will outperform standards. That's why it includes features like elastic side closures and adjustable shoulder straps, a variety of pockets and pouches for gear, and removable ballistics to clean the carrier.

In terms of job duties, a tactical vest for EMS can accommodate the active and often physically demanding nature of EMS work. Our EMS and firefighter bulletproof vest is designed to offer maximum protection while allowing for the agility and flexibility needed during emergency responses. 

Is the First Responder Bulletproof Vest Comfortable to Wear While Working?

Yes. Comfort is almost always shrugged off as a feature in safety equipment. As a result, a lot of companies get away with cutting corners here. When you’re looking at pictures online, there’s no good way to imagine wearing something for hours at a time. It’s always after you’ve owned something that you start to wish you picked a more comfortable option.

A bulletproof vest is something a lot of people, especially in the EMS industry or firearms instructors, have to wear every day. That’s because when it does come in handy, it saves your life.

That’s why you should pay close attention to the things that are actually going to have an impact on your day to day life, and satisfaction with your purchase. Don’t skip on comfort. This is especially true for first responders. 

Premier Body Armor’s bulletproof vest for EMS is designed to ensure you are not only safe, but comfortable for extended periods. Our vests include breathable fabrics, quickly adjustable straps, and padding in key areas to enhance wearability and ease of movement. For more details on how to wear your body armor comfortably and effectively, visit our guide on Where and How to Wear Body Armor.

What is the Lifespan of an EMS Tactical Bulletproof Vest?

Wearing an aramid ballistic vest daily means there will be natural wear and tear. We offer a 5-year warranty on our first responder vests. But there are ways you can extend the life of your vest with proper bulletproof vest etiquette. 

Proper maintenance and storage extends the lifetime of your vest. Here are some common guidelines for any ballistic vest:

  • Lay your vest flat when it’s not in use to avoid unnecessary stretching of the fibers.
  • Avoid stepping on it, folding it, or bending it in any way.
  • Avoid leaving it out in the humidity or sun frequently.
  • If it gets damp, let it dry in an open space.

To wash your vest correctly, read our article on how to clean your body armor without damaging it.

Is it Legal to Purchase an EMS Ballistic Vest?

“Can I even own this?” This is definitely a question we hear a lot.

The answer is most likely yes. Across most of the US, civilians and first responders are permitted by federal law to purchase and wear body armor. There are very few restrictions. Here’s a quick rundown of bulletproof vest laws.

  • In Connecticut, you must purchase body armor in person
  • New York is the only state that limits the constitutional right to buy body armor (as of 2022)
  • Federal law prohibits felons from wearing body armor
  • There are also some state-specific nuances, like restrictions on wearing body armor while committing a crime

Please check the laws for your own state. We’ve made it easy to do just that on our page: ‘Is Body Armor Legal?

How Much Do Bulletproof Vests Cost for First Responders?

Cost is always a consideration. Budget constraints should never have to compromise safety. 

There are various funding opportunities available specifically for first responders. These programs can help offset the cost of body armor for first responders. 

Body armor grants for EMS can be found at First Responder Grants. Here, you can find various resources to help cover the cost of body armor for first responders.

Alternatively, body armor grants for law enforcement can be found at Vest for Life. Here, you can fill out a form to request a vest, or to donate one of your bulletproof vests.


If you’re a first responder, you understand the risk you take on a day to day basis. We want you to make it home safely no matter what happens at your job. That’s why we’ve made sure that our first responder vest is the best piece of equipment for your safety. Explore the features and get yours today.

 


Law Enforcement / First Responder / Military discount available

Please see TERMS & CONDITIONS for additional details regarding lead time, shipping, warranty & return policy. 

Customer Reviews

Based on 5 reviews
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R
Reynaldo Halili
Great

Unremarkable

S
Sherry Pratt
Great Instructor Vest!

Very happy with this vest! It fits great and looks great! Very easy to adjust and move around in!

Thank you Premier Body Armor!

Thanks Sherry for the awesome review of our Condor Instructor NIJ Level IIIA Vest and for the great pic of the vest in action! Stay safe - PBA Team

G
Gregory Higgins
Great selection and Prices!

So far so good. The vest was sized right for me based on the sizing guide. The vest is high quality and wears well.

T
Terence Stevens
Red Firearms Ballistic Vest

Professional look and great fit!

A
Alan
Excellent Vest

High quality vest, reasonably thin and lightweight. The pouches are quite useful and well positioned for quick access. Easy to put on and comfortable to wear for extended periods, I am happy with my purchase.