Threats are determined by the energy developed during an attack as the tip of a weapon strikes you. Energy and penetration potential are affected by several factors: 1. The weapon's mass (how big it is), hardness, and geometry (its shape). 2. The assailant's size, physical strength, quickness and emotional state. The energy of the attack is measured in joules or foot-pounds. The higher the measurement, the greater the threat. 

Based on laboratory tests and information from law enforcement officers, we have determined at least three typical energy levels for different type attacks: 

Energy: 15-25 joules.
Single-handed forward thrust. This short, underhand stabbing motion is favored by knife fighters because it avoids exposing the body. 

Energy: 30-40 joules.
Single-handed roundhouse. This move exposes the body, but the wider arc develops greater velocity. 

Energy: 40-50 joules.
Double-handed overhead. This is considered the most deadly because it generates the greatest mass and velocity.

Unlike ballistic vests, there are currently no NIJ Standards for stab-resistant vests. However, there are internationally recognized standards and specifications. These include the CEN standard in Europe and the P.S.D.B. (Police Scientific Development Branch) standard in the United Kingdom, and the State of California Department of Corrections specification in the United States. 

In addition, stab-resistant vests can be certified by private laboratories, such as H.P. White and U.L. in the U.S., and government laboratories such as P.S.D.B in the U.K. In the future, the NIJ may establish standards. Meanwhile, good specifications (like the California specifications) do exist. 

FDIG will design Stab vests to meet these or any other recognized international standards. We will build them to satisfy your needs, and we will have the vest verified in key certified test laboratories.