Second Chance (body armor)

Second Chance Body Armor, Inc., was a prominent American manufacturer of ballistic vests and other protective equipment. Founded in 1971 by Richard Davis, a former pizza shop owner who survived a shooting, the company played a significant role in the development and popularization of lightweight concealable body armor for law enforcement officers.

Second Chance was one of the first companies to mass-produce vests utilizing Kevlar, a strong and lightweight fiber developed by DuPont. The introduction of Kevlar vests offered a significant improvement in comfort and wearability compared to earlier, heavier armor options, leading to widespread adoption by police departments across the United States and internationally.

The company's early success was driven by its commitment to saving lives, often highlighted through anecdotes and stories of officers surviving potentially fatal encounters while wearing Second Chance vests. Davis's hands-on approach, including shooting himself in the vest during demonstrations, contributed to the company's visibility and credibility.

However, Second Chance faced challenges and controversies throughout its history. In the early 2000s, the company discontinued the use of Zylon, a material incorporated into some of its vests, due to concerns about degradation and reduced ballistic performance over time. This decision led to lawsuits and significant financial difficulties.

Despite the controversies, Second Chance remains a notable name in the history of body armor development. The company's contribution to the advancement of protective equipment and its impact on officer safety are widely recognized. The legacy of Second Chance includes its role in pioneering the use of Kevlar, its influence on industry standards, and its impact on the widespread adoption of body armor by law enforcement professionals. While the brand has changed hands several times since its initial success, the name retains historical significance within the field of personal protective equipment.