Bulletproof Vest Wear...

Question

As a civilian, is it illegal to own/wear one in Ontario ? Furthermore, are Police issue vests different from others (non police issue), and do they fall under different or similar rules?

Answer 1

There is no legal prohibition against owning a bullet proof vest in Ontario or anywhere else in Canada.  At the same time though, the courts may hold that the possession of one plays to the intent of an accused if they are caught with it while committing a crime.  (R.v Petrin, 2007, ABQB 687)

As far as those readily available for purchase compaired to those issued to police departments, there is no real difference other then the carrier.  Carriers for vest issued to police usually have the words "POLICE" installed somewhere on it, either in the clear or in concealable panels.  Other then that, the vest inside is the same, depending upon how much the department wants to pay to protect their officers.

Answer 2

Sorry can't answer for Canada but in many states in the US it is illegal to wear one while in commission of any crime. In some states if you have been convicted of a felony it is illegal to even own one.

They are not bulletproof, they are bullet resistant. Also remember that  those designed for bullets do not help much with knives. The civilian ones are the same as the police ones. Uncomfortable. To see how uncomfortable take 2 to 5 lbs. (depending on the level of protection you want) of plastic tarp and wrap it around your chest.

Answer 3

no it is not illegial to wear one in Ont.

Im up in Toronto

Answer 4

It is not illegal for you to own and or wear a vest any where. You can buy them on line. That is one more line of defense you can buy. A good one is around 700 to 900 dollars.