Certified Protection That Adapts to Your Environment
The SafeGuard Clothing Covert/Overt Bulletproof Vest gives you the versatility of two designs in one: wear it covertly under clothing for discreet protection or overtly over uniforms for visible professional use. Certified to NIJ Level II ballistic standards and Level 1 stab resistance, this dual-threat vest offers protection against small handgun rounds and knife attacks while keeping comfort and mobility at the forefront.
Manufactured from advanced ballistic soft armour panels, it resists 9mm and .357 Magnum JSP handgun threats as well as knife strikes with up to 24 joules of impact energy. Lightweight, flexible, and moisture-wicking, it’s built to perform in security, enforcement, or personal safety settings, ensuring all-day confidence wherever your duties take you.
Key Features
NIJ Level II ballistic protection – resists handgun rounds up to .357 Magnum JSP
Stab Level 1 protection – guards against knives with 24 joules impact and 7 mm penetration
Dual configuration – can be worn covertly under clothing or overtly as visible gear
Certified and tested to NIJ standards for verified multi-threat protection
Lightweight soft armour panels for comfortable, flexible wear
Durable outer cover built for long service life
Moisture-wicking liner keeps you cool and dry during extended use
Available in black, ideal for both professional and civilian applications
Adult unisex fit, adjustable for comfort
Tech Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | SafeGuard Clothing |
| Model | COVO-COV-210-BLK |
| Protection Level | Ballistic Level II + Stab Level 1 |
| Ballistic Resistance | Up to .357 Magnum JSP and 9mm FMJ |
| Stab Resistance | 24 joules / 7 mm penetration |
| Material Composition | Soft Armour Ballistic Panels + Durable Outer Carrier |
| Fit Type | Covert / Overt – Convertible |
| Colour | Black |
| Size | Medium |
| Certification | NIJ Standard 0101.06 |
| Water Resistance | Yes (outer carrier) |
| Breathability | High |
| Country of Manufacture | UK (SafeGuard facility) |
Pros and Cons
Pros
Certified NIJ Level II and Stab Level 1 dual protection
Convertible covert or overt design for flexible use
Lightweight and breathable for extended wear
Professional-grade construction with UK manufacturing
Ideal for both security roles and personal safety
Cons
Not suitable for rifle or high-velocity ballistic threats
Overt mode may be less discreet under thin clothing
Single colour option (black only)
What This Product Is Used For
This vest is designed for security professionals, enforcement personnel, and individuals working in unpredictable environments who need trusted, certified protection. Its covert/overt adaptability makes it ideal for switching between uniformed public roles and discreet civilian wear. It provides reliable protection from handgun rounds and knife threats, making it suitable for door supervisors, event security, cash handling, and emergency responders.
Why We Like This Product (YPC Team Review)
At Yorkshire Outdoor Activity Park, we tested the SafeGuard Covert/Overt Vest during safety drills and found it one of the most versatile designs available. The ability to wear it under clothing or as visible body armour makes it stand out from traditional vests. We were particularly impressed by its comfort, flexibility, and build quality—the ballistic panels fit snugly, and the material feels tough yet breathable. It’s an excellent choice for professionals who need one vest for multiple scenarios.
Alternatives Worth Considering
SafeGuard Cordura Carrier Level II + Stab + Spike Vest – adds spike protection for more complex threat environments.
IIIA Level Concealed Bulletproof Vest (NIJ Certified) – higher ballistic level for advanced security applications.
GplHAIN Level 5 Anti-Cut Vest – non-ballistic, lightweight option for everyday civilian wear.
Tips on How to Use Correctly
Adjust shoulder and waist straps for a snug, comfortable fit.
Position panels correctly to cover the torso and vital organs.
Choose covert or overt configuration depending on your role.
Clean the outer carrier with mild soap; do not wash ballistic panels.
Inspect panels regularly for cracks or deformation.
Store flat in a cool, dry location away from sunlight.
Note: Level II protects against handguns, not rifles.
Comparisons
| Product | Protection Type | Design | Concealment | Certification |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SafeGuard Covert/Overt Vest | Ballistic + Stab | Convertible | Medium | NIJ Certified |
| SafeGuard Cordura Vest | Ballistic + Stab + Spike | Overt | Low | NIJ Certified |
| IIIA Concealed Vest | Ballistic + Stab | Covert | High | NIJ Certified |
FAQs
1. What protection level does this vest provide?
It’s NIJ Level II for ballistics and Level 1 for stab resistance.
2. What threats does Level II protect against?
It resists 9mm FMJ and .357 Magnum JSP handgun rounds.
3. Can I wear it under clothing?
Yes, it’s designed for both covert and overt use.
4. Is it stab-resistant as well?
Yes, it offers certified Level 1 knife protection (24 joules impact).
5. Is it heavy?
No, it’s lightweight and designed for all-day wear.
6. Can I wear it for work in security?
Yes, it’s ideal for professional security or enforcement roles.
7. Is it legal to wear in public in the UK?
Yes, owning and wearing body armour for personal protection is legal.
8. Is it waterproof?
The outer carrier is water-resistant and easy to clean.
9. Does it require special maintenance?
Clean outer fabric only; do not machine wash armour panels.
10. What’s the difference between Level II and Level IIIA?
Level II protects against small handguns, while Level IIIA offers additional resistance to heavier rounds such as .44 Magnum.
Looking for more options?
Browse our full range of Men's Outdoor Clothing for other great choices to suit your space, goals, and budget.
