Frequently Asked Questions

You have questions, we have answers...

1. Are you NIJ Certified?

Yes, our ballistic products are NIJ Certified. Our certification by the National Institute of Justice is a testament to our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety. You can verify our certification by visiting the NIJ website and searching for "Varanus Tactical" or "Tactical Elite Systems", our parent company. For more information on what NIJ Certification means and why it is important, please see question 8 below.

2. What are your estimated delivery times?

At VARANUS Tactical, we maintain limited inventory for immediate shipping, as the manufacturing date is an important factor in ensuring the longevity of the product. In some cases, we may need to manufacture your vest upon receiving your order, which could result in a lead time of 1 to 3 weeks before shipping. We ship our products via UPS to the continental US, and depending on your location, it may take up to a week for your order to arrive.

3. Where do you deliver?

We currently offer delivery by UPS to the continental United States only. Unfortunately, due to local laws, we are unable to ship to New York and Connecticut at this time. Delivery times typically take approximately one week from the shipping date. We strive to provide our customers with prompt and reliable service, and we will do our best to ensure that your order arrives in a timely manner.

4. Do your products offer insurance?

Yes, each one of our ballistic products has an insurance for its ballistic performance.

5. Do you have more products?

Yes, we have a vast selection of over 200 products available. We have supplied a diverse range of products to law enforcement agencies, armed forces, and governments around the world. While we only sell our best sellers online, we have a wide range of designs, brands, and products that are available upon request. If you're interested in learning more about our full range of offerings, please don't hesitate to contact us. Our team of experts is always happy to provide you with more information and help you find the products that meet your needs.

6. Cleaning Your Vest

  • Before cleaning, make sure to remove the ballistic insert from the carrier.
  • Use a soft-bristled brush or a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior of the carrier to remove any dirt, dust, or debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents that can damage the nylon material.
  • To clean the carrier, fill a basin or sink with warm water and add a mild detergent. Soak the carrier for a few minutes, then gently scrub with a soft-bristled brush or cloth to remove any stains or dirt.
  • Rinse the carrier thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue, then hang it up to air dry.
  • For the ballistic insert, use a soft-bristled brush or cloth to wipe down the surface of the ballistic panel, removing any dirt, dust, or debris.
  • Avoid exposing the ballistic insert to high temperatures or direct sunlight, as this can damage the ballistic material.
  • Once the carrier and ballistic insert are completely dry, reassemble the vest by inserting the ballistic panel back into the carrier.
  • Store the vest in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and high humidity to prevent damage to the ballistic material.

It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintenance of your specific bulletproof vest model. If you are unsure about how to properly clean or maintain your vest, it is best to consult with the manufacturer or a qualified professional.

7. What does PSF and Berry Compliant mean?

PSF, or "Pounds per Square Foot," is a unit of measurement used to determine the weight of a ballistic panel per square foot of surface area. When it comes to ballistic panels, a lower PSF generally means a lighter and more comfortable panel to wear.

The Fusion IIIA ballistic panel sold by Varanus Tactical has a PSF of 1.17, making it a highly lightweight and comfortable option for anyone in need of ballistic protection. Despite its low weight, the Fusion IIIA panel is also highly effective at stopping a wide range of ballistic threats, making it an ideal choice for law enforcement, military personnel, and others who require reliable protection without sacrificing mobility or comfort.

Additionally, the Fusion IIIA panel is BERRY compliant, meaning it meets the strict requirements of the Berry Amendment that mandates certain US government agencies to give preference to domestically produced, sourced, and manufactured products. With its high-quality construction and rigorous safety standards, the Fusion IIIA panel is a top-notch option for anyone looking for reliable ballistic protection.

 What does NIJ Certified mean and why is it important?

The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) is a US government agency responsible for establishing and enforcing uniform performance standards for ballistic-resistant equipment. In the context of ballistic panels, the NIJ certification ensures that the panel meets certain minimum standards for protection against a variety of ballistic threats.

"Be wary of companies that claim "Passes NIJ tests" or "NIJ Compliant", these do not meet the NIJ Standards. Check in the NIJ website if your provider is registered and certified". Tom O'Dea, CEO of Varanus Tactical, Veteran.

However, the certification process is more than just ballistic tests. It also includes a review of the manufacturer's quality control processes and procedures to ensure consistency and reliability in the manufacturing of the panels. Companies that have achieved NIJ certification for their ballistic panels must demonstrate that they have established and documented procedures for selecting and testing materials, and that they have appropriate quality control measures in place to ensure that their products consistently meet the NIJ standards.

Overall, the NIJ certification provides assurance to end-users that the ballistic panels they are purchasing have been rigorously tested and meet high standards of quality and consistency.