Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are stab-proof vests legal to own and wear in New Zealand?
Yes. Under current New Zealand law, stab-resistant vests/body armour are legal for civilians to own and wear, including security staff, doormen/bouncers, and other frontline workers, provided they are not used in the commission of a crime.
There is no specific offence in the Arms Act 1983 that bans the simple possession of body armour (the Act focuses on firearms, magazines and restricted weapons).
However, if you’re subject to court orders, bail conditions, or other restrictions, you must comply with those – if in doubt, seek legal advice.
2. Do I need a licence or permit to purchase stab-resistant body armour?
No. You do not currently need a firearms licence or special permit just to buy or own stab-resistant body armour in New Zealand. NZ law and import customs rules largely focus on firearms, ammunition and certain restricted weapons – body armour is not treated the same way.
3. What’s the difference between a stab-proof vest and a bullet-proof vest?
A stab-resistant vest is designed to stop or greatly reduce penetration from knives, spikes and improvised weapons. It is usually tested to standards like NIJ 0115.00 or UK CAST/HOSDB KR/SP levels.
A ballistic (bullet-resistant) vest is built to stop bullets and is tested to ballistic standards such as NIJ 0101.06 or AS/NZS 2343.
Some vests combine both (ballistic + stab), but most stab vests do not stop bullets, and many bullet-resistant vests give only limited stab protection unless specifically rated for it. The materials used to stop knives and bullets have quite a different configuration but we can make vests that stop both, so get in touch if you are interested in buying.
4. What protection levels are Armasure vests tested to?
We make vests that comply with NIJ (USA National Institute of Justice) as internationally they are most recognised. If you are interested in the UK standards such as KR, SP and HO, please get in contact and we will suggest a product of comparable protection.
5. What do the different NIJ or KR/SP protection levels mean?
These are common levels you’ll see:
NIJ 0115.00 (US) – stab-resistance levels 1, 2 and 3. Our Level 1 & 10J options offer very high protection for any civilian/security use. We can of course manufacture to Level 3 if required.
UK CAST / HOSDB KR & SP (Knife/Spike Resistance) – KR and SP levels 1 -3, similar to the NIJ protection levels. Again, Level 1 is plenty for civilian use.
6. Can stab-resistant vests protect against slash attacks as well as stabs?
Yes, our stab-resistant armour is made from tightly woven, steel or composite materials that handle slashing very well; stopping a thrust is much harder than stopping a slash, and our vests stop both.
A vest properly certified for stab threats will give excellent protection against slashes from knives, broken bottles or similar weapons.
7. What size vest should I choose, and how should it be fitted properly?
A stab resistant vest should:
* Sit high enough to protect vital organs (top edge roughly at the notch at the top of your sternum).
* Cover from just below your collarbones to a few centimetres above your belt when standing. This gap between your belt and the vest is important especially if you are often sitting in the vest and stops it riding up.
* Wrap comfortably around your ribs and not allow gaps at the side of the vest.
We offer a wide range of sizes from XS-7XL, so please use our sizing and fitting information to check the right size for you. If you’re between sizes or have a broader chest or stomach go up a size, then tighten with the adjustment straps.
8. How heavy are the vests, and are they comfortable to wear all day?
Weight varies by model and level and protection level.
* Our covert vests weigh as little as 1.7kg and our highest protection and accessory capability security vests are between 2.5-3.0kg depending on size.
* They are comfortable to wear all day, and have a specially designed inner mesh to increase air circulation on the inside of the jacket.
9. Can the armour panels be removed or replaced?
Yes, all the armour plates are removable and should be removed before washing the outer cover. Armour panels should be just wiped clean with a cold wet cloth. The outer cover should be put on a cool wash. For full care instructions see here.
10. How long does a stab-proof vest last, and when should it be replaced?
Our stab proof vests are designed to provide of at least 5 years of normal use.
You should replace your vest earlier if:
* The waterproof cover of the panels has been cut or ripped.
* The vest has been involved in a serious incident (e.g. a stab impact).
* The carrier is heavily worn so that it no longer holds the panels securely in place.
Always store the armour in a cool dry place out of sunlight. Do not store for long periods in a car or anywhere confined that might heat up excessively for any reason.
11. Can I wear a stab-resistant vest under clothing without it being visible?
Yes. Covert/undercover vests are specifically designed for this – thinner carriers, fewer external pockets and a smoother profile. You can choose slightly looser outer clothing (for example, an untucked shirt, hoodie or jacket), but many customers wear covert vests daily without drawing attention. We suggest our ultra light version of the AS23WB for this use.
12. Are your vests suitable for security guards, door and event control?
Yes. Stab-resistant body armour is widely used internationally and in New Zealand by personnel in many roles, for example by:
Private security and nightclub staff
Corrections and custodial officers
Door supervisors/bouncers
Parking and other licence enforcement
We offer highly flexible options for all customers, from concealable to high vis vests with webbing for easy accessory attachment.
13. Do you ship nationwide and how long does delivery take?
Yes. We ship nationwide within New Zealand using reliable tracked courier services most suitable for prompt delivery based on destination. You can expect delivery in 2-3 days from order. We also ship internationally, please contact us to confirm delivery times.
18. Can I return or exchange a vest if the size is wrong?
Yes. If the vest doesn’t fit:
* You can exchange it for a different size or return for a refund
* As long as it is unworn, in resaleable condition, and the tags and packaging are intact.
Please see our full return conditions here.
19. Is wearing body armour at work tax-deductible as safety equipment?
Body armour used for work is usually treated as protective clothing rather than normal everyday clothing. In New Zealand, protective gear required for health & safety reasons can often be deducted as a business expense by self-employed people or claimed by employers for their staff. However:
* Tax treatment depends on your situation (employee vs self-employed, how the gear is used, etc.)
* Inland Revenue has detailed rules on what counts as specialist or protective clothing. We recommend you check with your accountant or IRD for advice specific to you.