Soft armor is made by tightly weaving 100% UV sensitive aramid fibers, UHMWPE(ultralight metalloplastic) or a combination of UV sensitive aramid fibers and ultra-light metalloplastic fibers into a low-tension, impact-resistant bullet catcher which defuses the force of fired projectiles, dispersing its energy. Low tension means less stress on the steel impacting the projectiles. The result is more energy loss in the bullet and hence less penetration. This is an important advantage over traditional armor plate used for years was its ability to deflect rounds and save valuable time and energy in engaging targets. The softer armor is more easily worn down by the expansion of soft metals, such as brass or steel, but retains its structural integrity.
The use of soft armor in firearms developed out of the need to reduce weight and increase accuracy of firearms used by military and law enforcement personnel while still providing a high degree of stopping power. Soft armor was first used in handguns to counter soft body armor plate found on police vehicles and other vehicles. These soft armor plates proved too expensive and the cost was eventually replaced with hard body armor plates. Today, both types are used, although many law enforcement officers and manufacturers prefer using soft armor plates for high-cost soft body armor handguns over hard armor plates for shooting defense. Hard body armor plates are also used in some firearms to increase stopping power against handgun penetration.
Many firearms manufacturers have developed and manufacture special ammo that can be shot through soft armor inserts. This ammo has an extremely long range and high energy muzzle velocity. Soft armor insert cartridges are specially designed to work with firearm ammunition, and have been specifically designed to resist the pressures associated with firing a handgun at an angle. These specially designed soft armor inserts are inserted into the primer chamber of a firearm and then later secured onto the outside of the frame by two thin steel inserts called rails. Rail systems allow a shooter to adjust the angle of impact relative to the bore, which in turn, increases the stopping power of the handgun.
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