Capitol Hill Clothiers
Bulletproof Suit FAQs
What are your shipping rates?
We offer free standard shipping for all orders within the contiguous United States. For orders going to Hawaii or Alaska, there's a $25 flat shipping fee. International orders have a flat shipping fee of $50.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we do. Shipping Level III and IV plates outside the U.S. requires a U.S. State Department export permit, which can take up to 2 months to obtain. For Level IIA, II, and IIIA products, most international orders don’t require a special export license, but we recommend checking your country’s regulations for any import duties or taxes. You will be responsible for obtaining all legal documentation and approval before shipping is possible.
How long will it take for my garments to ship?
Our garments are handmade to order by our small team right here in the USA, so our lead times are a little longer. We usually estimate 5-8 weeks for production of a fully custom bulletproof suit. If your bulletproof suit is a standard size, it is possible to get that time down to 3 weeks, depending on our workload.
Do you offer expedited or overnight shipping?
Because of the nature of our products, we aren’t able to guarantee expedited or overnight shipping, so we don’t offer it as an option.
Are your products made in the USA?
Yes. Our suits and bulletproof panels are all handmade in the USA. Everything is tailored and assembled in the Northeast US and inspected/shipped to you from the Washington, DC area.
Are your products tested for reliability?
Yes, our products are tested for performance and reliability. We proudly share results from H.P. White Laboratory of Maryland, a leading testing facility for NIJ standards. You can view our test results upon request.
Are your garments 100% bulletproof?
“Bulletproof” is a term widely understood in the civilian market, even though professionals often avoid it. We use it to make it clear that our products meet NIJ Threat Level 3A standards, though no product is unequivocally "bulletproof." We aim to educate customers about the limitations and capabilities of our ballistic materials and encourage the use of other personal safety and protection best practices in tandem with our products.
Are your bulletproof clothes comfortable? Easily concealed?
Yes, most of our bulletproof panels only add 4-5 pounds, which allows for easy concealment. When fitted properly, our products are made to be both comfortable and mobile. Keep in mind that concealment can vary based on your body type, the clothing material, and proper fit.
Does it matter which side of the ballistic panel faces the threat?
No, our panels offer bidirectional protection. The level of defense is the same no matter which side faces the threat.
What are the measurement specifications of your products?
Our ballistic panels are cut to size for each garment, so the dimensions will vary depending on the size and specs of the garment.
Can I order replacement panels?
Yes, we can provide our custom-made bulletproof panels by themselves. Our inserts can also be made to fit most pre-owned bags, backpacks, or compartments. Just send us your measurements or bag, and we’ll craft an insert tailored to your needs.
Can I bring my bulletproof item on an airplane?
Yes, the TSA doesn’t prohibit any body armor.
Are the sleeves of your clothing products bulletproof?
Generally, no, but they can be if requested. Just note that adding panels to sleeves will add weight and restrict arm flexibility. Please contact us if you have specific needs.
How do I know what size to order?
For the best fit, order your true size. Our ballistic materials are flexible and thin, so no need to size up. If you need help finding the right size, feel free to reach out to us.
How do I clean my bulletproof product?
Our bulletproof panels are removable, so you can take them out and just wipe them down with a damp cloth. To clean your garment, we recommend standard dry cleaning after removing the panels.
Are your products stab-resistant?
Our bulletproof panels offer some level of stab resistance, but they aren’t specifically tested to meet any stab resistance standards.
Do your products protect against rifle rounds?
No, to protect against rifle rounds, you’ll need Level III armor or higher. Doubling up on two Level IIIA panels won’t stop a rifle projectile. If you are in need of this level of protection, please contact us directly.
Can I test shoot my suits?
For safety and liability reasons, we don’t allow test shooting. If you have concerns or questions, feel free to reach out to us directly.
How flexible are the bulletproof panels?
The panels are about as flexible as a rubber mouse pad—stiff enough to provide protection but flexible enough to allow for mobility. The flexibility varies based on the panel chosen.
ATTENTION: Connecticut residents
If you live in Connecticut, state law requires face-to-face transactions unless you’re a law enforcement officer or military member. This requires either flying Capitol Hill Clothiers out for a fitting or coming to the Washington, DC area for your purchase.
What are the different levels of bulletproof protection?
Bulletproof protection comes in two main categories: pistol threats and rifle threats. Soft bullet-resistant materials (Level IIA, Level II, and Level IIIA) stop most pistol rounds and 12-gauge buckshot, but they won’t stop rifle rounds. For rifle threats, you need a rigid plate (Level III or higher).
Level IIA (~4mm thick) – Great for comfort, concealability, and long periods of wear, but offers less blunt trauma protection compared to higher levels.
Level II (~5mm thick) – Commonly worn by police officers; balances protection, comfort, and concealability.
Level IIIA (~8-9mm thick) – Thicker and heavier, but it provides protection against higher-powered pistol threats like a 9mm submachine gun or .44 Magnum.
Do you offer bulk pricing/group rates?
Yes, we offer bulk pricing for orders of 10 or more items. Contact us for details.
What is the legality of purchasing/owning a bulletproof product?
Convicted felons are strictly prohibited from possessing body armor. If you are not a convicted felon, it is legal to purchase and own.
Do you offer discounts for Military/Law Enforcement?
Yes, we offer a 10% discount for military and law enforcement. Mention it in your inquiry and after your active duty is verified, we will provide the discount.