Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are stab-resistant vests legal to own and wear in Australia?

Armasure's stab-resistant vests are designed for protection against knives, spikes and edged weapons. They are not bulletproof and are not sold as anti-ballistic or anti-fragmentation armour unless expressly stated.

In many Australian states and territories, laws regulating body armour focus mainly on ballistic armour designed to resist firearm projectiles. However, Australian laws vary, and some jurisdictions use broader wording that may include stab-resistant body armour.

Victoria and Tasmania, in particular, have broader controls around body armour, and NSW wording may also require careful interpretation. Victoria Police gives guidance for body armour use by private security personnel, and Tasmania requires a permit for manufacturing, distributing, supplying, selling or possessing body armour. NSW Police also publishes a permit process for body armour vests.

Customers are responsible for checking the rules in their own state or territory before purchasing, possessing or wearing body armour. Security staff and employers should also check any licensing, permit or occupational-use requirements that apply to their role.

Armasure products are supplied for legitimate personal safety, workplace safety and security use only, and must not be used for any unlawful purpose.

2. Do I need a licence or permit to purchase a stab-resistant vest?

This depends on your state or territory and your intended use.

A true stab-only vest with no ballistic or anti-fragmentation protection may not be treated the same as bullet-resistant body armour in some Australian jurisdictions. However, some states and territories regulate body armour more broadly.

Before ordering, please check the requirements in your state or territory, especially if you are located in Victoria, Tasmania or NSW, or if the vest is being purchased for security, crowd-control, enforcement or other professional work.

3. Can stab-resistant vests be imported into Australia?

Australian Border Force restrictions focus on body armour with anti-ballistic or anti-fragmentation properties that is designed to be worn by a person. ABF guidance also states that vest or plate carriers with no anti-ballistic or anti-fragmentation protection do not require Commonwealth import permission.

Armasure stab-resistant vests are designed for knife, spike and edged-weapon protection, not firearm protection, unless a product is specifically described as ballistic.

However, customers are responsible for ensuring that any product they order can lawfully be imported, possessed and used in their state or territory. If you are unsure, please contact us before ordering.

4. What's the difference between a stab-resistant vest and a bullet-resistant vest?

A stab-resistant vest is designed to stop or greatly reduce penetration from knives, spikes and improvised edged weapons. Stab protection is commonly tested to standards such as NIJ 0115.00 or UK CAST / HOSDB KR and SP levels.

A ballistic or bullet-resistant vest is designed to protect against firearm threats and is tested to ballistic standards such as NIJ 0101.06, NIJ 0101.07 or AS/NZS ballistic standards.

Most stab-resistant vests do not stop bullets, and many bullet-resistant vests provide only limited stab protection unless they are specifically rated for stab threats. The materials and construction used to resist knives and bullets are different, although combined ballistic and stab-resistant solutions can be manufactured for customers with suitable lawful requirements.

5. What protection levels are Armasure vests tested to?

Armasure manufactures and supplies vests tested to recognised international protection standards, including NIJ standards from the United States.

NIJ standards are widely recognised internationally and give customers a clear way to compare protection levels. If you require a vest comparable to UK CAST / HOSDB KR or SP levels, please contact us and we can suggest a suitable product or custom option.

6. What do the different NIJ or KR/SP protection levels mean?

Common stab-resistance standards include:

NIJ 0115.00 - the US stab-resistance standard, with Levels 1, 2 and 3. Level 1 is commonly used for civilian, security and frontline worker applications, while higher levels are available for customers who require greater protection.

UK CAST / HOSDB KR & SP - UK knife and spike resistance standards. KR refers to knife resistance and SP refers to spike resistance. These standards also use increasing levels of protection.

For most civilian, security and workplace applications, a Level 1 stab-resistant vest provides a strong and practical balance of protection, weight and comfort. Higher protection levels may be appropriate for higher-risk roles.

7. Can stab-resistant vests protect against slash attacks as well as stabs?

Yes. Armasure stab-resistant armour is designed to protect against both stabbing and slashing threats.

Stopping a direct thrust is generally much harder than stopping a slash. A vest properly designed and tested for stab threats will normally provide excellent protection against slashes from knives, broken bottles or similar edged weapons.

No vest can guarantee complete protection in every possible incident, but a properly fitted stab-resistant vest can greatly reduce the risk of serious injury.

8. What size vest should I choose, and how should it be fitted properly?

A stab-resistant vest should:

·         Sit high enough to protect the vital organs, with the top edge roughly around the notch at the top of your sternum.

·         Cover from just below the collarbones to a few centimetres above your belt when standing.

·         Leave enough gap above the belt so the vest does not ride up uncomfortably when sitting.

·         Wrap securely around the ribs without leaving large gaps at the sides.

·         Feel firm and secure, but not so tight that it restricts breathing or movement.

We offer a wide range of sizes from XS to 9XL. Please use our sizing and fitting information before ordering.

If you are between sizes, or have a broader chest or stomach, it is usually better to go up a size and then adjust the fit using the straps.

9. How heavy are the vests, and are they comfortable to wear all day?

Weight varies depending on the model, size and protection level.

·         Our covert vests can weigh as little as approximately 1.7 kg.

·         Our higher-protection security vests with additional accessory capability are generally around 2.5-3.0 kg, depending on size and specification.

Armasure vests are designed for practical working use. Many models include a breathable inner mesh to improve air circulation and comfort during longer periods of wear.

10. Can the armour panels be removed or replaced?

Yes. The armour panels are removable and should always be removed before washing the outer carrier.

The armour panels should not be machine washed. Wipe them clean using a cold damp cloth only.

The outer carrier can usually be washed on a cool wash, but always follow the care instructions supplied with your vest.

For full care instructions, please see our product care page.

11. How long does a stab-resistant vest last, and when should it be replaced?

Armasure stab-resistant vests are designed to provide at least five years of normal use, provided they are properly cared for and not damaged.

You should replace your vest earlier if:

·         The protective panel cover has been cut, punctured or ripped.

·         The vest has been involved in a serious incident, such as a stab impact.

·         The carrier is heavily worn and no longer holds the panels securely in place.

·         The armour has been stored incorrectly or exposed to excessive heat, moisture or sunlight.

Always store armour in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Do not store it for long periods in a car, shed or other enclosed space that may become excessively hot.

12. Can I wear a stab-resistant vest under clothing without it being visible?

Yes. Covert or undercover vests are designed to be worn discreetly under clothing. They usually have thinner carriers, fewer external features and a smoother profile than overt security vests.

Loose outer clothing, such as an untucked shirt, hoodie or jacket, can help reduce visibility. Many customers wear covert vests daily without drawing attention.

For this use, we suggest our ultra-light AS23WB-10 covert vest option.

13. Are your vests suitable for security guards, door staff and event control?

Yes. Stab-resistant body armour is widely used internationally by people working in roles such as:

·         Private security

·         Door staff and bouncers

·         Event control

·         Enforcement and compliance roles

·         Parking enforcement

·         Custodial and corrections-related work

·         Frontline workers exposed to a realistic risk of violence

We offer options ranging from low-profile covert vests to high-visibility security vests with webbing for radios, body cameras and other accessories.

Customers in Australia should check any state or territory licensing, permit or exemption requirements before buying or wearing body armour for work.

14. Do you ship throughout Australia and how long does delivery take?

Yes. We ship to customers across Australia using tracked courier services.

Delivery times vary depending on the destination, stock availability and any customs or import requirements that may apply. Please check the product page or contact us for the latest delivery estimate before ordering.

For bulk, security company or procurement orders, please contact us directly.

15. Can I return or exchange a vest if the size is wrong?

Yes. If the vest does not fit, you can exchange it for a different size or return it for a refund, provided that:

·         It is unworn.

·         It is in resaleable condition.

·         The tags and packaging are intact.

·         It has not been damaged, altered or used operationally.

Please see our full returns policy for detailed conditions.

16. Is wearing body armour at work tax-deductible as safety equipment?

Body armour used for work may be treated as protective clothing or safety equipment in some circumstances.

The Australian Taxation Office allows deductions for protective items where they protect the wearer from a real and likely risk of injury or illness at work, subject to the usual work-related deduction rules.

However, tax treatment depends on your individual situation, including whether you are an employee, contractor, self-employed person or employer purchasing equipment for staff.

You should keep receipts and check with your accountant or the ATO before claiming body armour as a work-related expense.

17. Important legal note

The information on this page is general guidance only and is not legal advice.

Australian laws can vary between states and territories and may change over time. Customers are responsible for ensuring that any product they purchase can lawfully be imported, possessed and used in their location and for their intended purpose.