BulletSafe Bulletproof Backpack Panels

posted on March 31, 2014
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
backpack-panel_f.jpg

Tom Nardone recently conducted a crowd funding campaign that was so successful that the requested funding was met in just over two weeks, with 28 days left before the promotion was scheduled to end.

While the video that introduced the campaign is not very good, the lighting is poor and it is obvious that the people are not actors, the idea that it presented is quite awesome, which is probably why it has done so well. Nardone is the president of BulletSafe, a maker of bulletproof vests, and the product he introduced was bulletproof panels that fit inside of backpacks.

The panels are 10 inches by 12 inches, and weighs only 1.25 pounds. They are made of the same materials the company uses in its bulletproof vests, and are rated to stop all handgun rounds up to .44 Mag.

While the chances of ever being needed are quite small, a bulletproof panel in a kid’s backpack is a great idea. Nardone originally built the panels for his own kids, before realizing that other parents just might want these as well, and they are available for less than $100.

In addition to individual, Nardone has already received orders from stores that have had customers come in asking for this very type of product. Some comments on the campaign, though, have been less than complimentary, stating that kids have a higher chance of drowning than being attacked, which is absolutely true. In fact, kids have a higher chance of being hurt playing any sport, even golf, than from a firearm, thanks in no small part to the numerous safety campaigns of NRA, such as Eddie Eagle. That doesn’t, however, change the ingenious of this idea. Parents purchase all manners of equipment to keep kids safe-gates, monitors, socket plugs-so why shouldn’t we consider an item that could protect them in the unlikely event of an attack.

Latest

TC Encore 01
TC Encore 01

Return of the Encore: T/C Arms Brings Back Its Iconic Single-Shot

In 2024, former owner Gregg Ritz purchased Thompson/Center Arms. Now the company has introduced a modern take on its classic Contender/Encore concept: the ENCORE PROHunter.

7 New ARs for 2026

While it's certainly a saturated marketplace these days, the AR-15 has never been more popular with American firearm enthusiasts, and many manufacturers are continuing to feed the need with new options loaded with new features.

The Drawbacks of Being a Numbers-Oriented Gun Guy

Like any hobby or pastime that is in any way even vaguely related to machines or technology, firearms attract a (possibly) disproportionate number of “right-brained,” STEM-oriented personalities who like numbers.

First Look: MDT Hand Cannon Slingshot

Slingshots are fun, but they can also be a legitimate backup defensive tool—in 2023, a 13-year-old Michigan boy saved his 8-year-old sister from being kidnapped by using a $3 slingshot to fire a marble and a rock at the assailant, striking him in the chest and head.

The LCP Meets Magpul: Ruger's LCP Max with Magpul's EHG

Over the years, Ruger has enhanced its LCP with the introduction of the LCP II and LCP Max. New for 2026, Ruger is offering a new version of the LCP Max with the addition of a Magpul Enhanced Handgun Grip.

Review: 945 Industries Q.A.P. Series Off-Body Carry Bag

Off-body carry can be somewhat controversial, but choosing the right gear can go a long way toward successful carry. One good option is the Q.A.P. Series of bags from 945 Industries.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.