Body Armor Compliance & Buyer Eligibility
Body Armor Compliance & Buyer Eligibility
One of the most common questions we receive is: “Is it legal to buy body armor?” The short answer for most Americans is yes — but there are important federal and state-level rules to understand before purchasing.
Federal Law: Who Can Buy Body Armor?
Under federal law (18 U.S.C. § 931), it is illegal for anyone convicted of a violent felony to purchase, own, or possess body armor. All other civilians may legally purchase body armor in the United States.
VectorShields sells only to eligible buyers. By completing a purchase, customers confirm they are not prohibited from owning body armor under federal law.
State-Level Restrictions
Most U.S. states allow civilians to purchase body armor freely. However, some states have additional restrictions:
| State | Restriction |
|---|---|
| Connecticut | Body armor may only be purchased in person (face-to-face transaction) — online sales to CT residents are prohibited by state law. |
| All other states | No additional restrictions beyond federal law as of the date of this page. Always verify current local laws before purchasing. |
Note: Laws can change. We recommend verifying your state’s current regulations before purchasing. This page is informational and does not constitute legal advice.
Who Typically Buys Body Armor?
VectorShields serves a wide range of legitimate buyers including:
- Law enforcement officers (on and off duty)
- Security professionals and private guard companies
- Executive protection agents
- Military personnel
- Civilians in high-risk occupations (journalists, aid workers, cash-handling businesses)
- Preppers and personal safety-conscious individuals
Our Commitment to Responsible Sales
VectorShields is committed to selling only to lawful buyers. We sell NIJ-certified armor with full documentation and do not sell to individuals who indicate prohibited use or intent. We reserve the right to refuse any order at our discretion.