Stab resistance is different from slash resistance. If you are attacked by someone with a knife the attacker will probably try to stab down on you instead of thrusting straight forward. The knife will travel both sideways (with the edge) and forward (the penetration). A kevlar vest with 'slash protection' will stop the slash part. However, the knife will continue into the wearers flesh. At that point the knife is sill moving with the edge (slashing). The knife will either cut both kevlar and flesh or will drag the vest your wearing along as it rips through your flesh. I have links to photos at the bottom of the page (they are very graphic).
You are more likely to be stabbed than shot. I know several people in Boston who were stabbed but none who wree shot. Also, if you are shot you have about a 90% chance of surviving. If you are stabbed you have about a 70% chance of survival.
I hand make stab resistant vests that weigh only 3lb. average and cost between $175 and $210. They are completely breathable, flexable, washable (if washed by themselves in your washer), will last just about forever (they don't desintigrate or lose protective properties with age), will take repeated stabbings without excessive damage, and are repairable so you don't have to get a new vest after you are attacked. One of these vests may suite your purpose.
The only problem is that they aren't ballistic and may cause more ballistic damage if you are wearing one and you are shot. However, if probobly aren't going to be shot these are a good option. Otherwise, go with a dual vest even though it is more expensive.
If anyone is interested please email me at
[email protected] with your mailing address so I can send you a sample (I send samples to customers I plan to sell to so they can test the material themselves.)
Oh yeah, here are some pictures of a victim of a knife attack. I warn you, these are very bloody and graphic.
photo1:
http://www.blogidaho.biz/knifewounds1.jpg
photo2:
http://www.blogidaho.biz/knifewounds2.jpg
photo3:
http://www.blogidaho.biz/knifewounds3.jpg