Worried about an active shooter event might just happen near your right now? We do not really blame you. These days such situations are being reported in the news regularly and the number of casualties just keeps piling up. There are many ways to prevent or minimize such situations, but it is always a political question, especially in the U.S. While politicians, gun control and pro-gun advocates debate, civilians may have to think of ways to protect themselves in an active shooter situation.

Leatherback Gear got an immediate solution: their Tactical One and Civilian One From Backpack To Bulletproof backpacks.

At first glance, the Tactical One looks like a day bag that is MOLLE compatible whilst the Civilian One does not look tactical and can readily blend in public spaces. But when needed, both convert into a protective vest with 2 soft armor panels for torso protection, both at the front and at the back. It only takes 5 seconds to convert this backpack into a bulletproof vest and even children can easily learn how it is done.

The ballistic rating of the armor included in the package can stop a .44 magnum round. Protection is even enhanced by adding more layers inside the backpack by using stuff carried everyday: textbooks, laptop, documents, etc.

Here are more features of both backpacks as enumerated by the company:

1. Converts into a protective vest with 2 soft armor panels for torso protection, both front & back!
2. Laptop & Tablet storage compartments
3. Water resistant fabric
4. Zippers are covered with fabric protection
5. Bulletproof – soft armor panels with NIJ threat level protection IIIA
6. Armor panel pockets allow for secure storage of armor
7. Heavy duty internal velcro & nylon strapping system All safety-related features are readily identifiable via our red colored tabs and threads
8. Felt-lined sunglass pocket
9. Internal front organizer pocket for pens, pencils, etc.
10. Easy access compartments
11. Hidden pocket on back
12. RFID lined/blocking pocket on back for added protection of credit cards, passport, etc.
13. Molle rigging system on exterior of pack + straps
14. Hidden pockets in shoulder straps
15. Easy digital cord access pockets in shoulder straps
16. Detachable straps transform into tourniquets, drag straps, and/or door stop strap
17. Handle on top reinforced to hold up to 300lbs
18. Easy passport storage
19. Superior design for improved biomechanical balance of weight
20. Fullback cushions for comfort while carrying
21. Separation zipper transforms backpack into soft body armor for torso
22. Hidden pockets in middle for concealing items
23. Name card in hidden pocket allows for name, in case of emergency, allergies, etc. to be listed
24. In a crisis (i.e., active shooting, etc.) the backpack keeps all contents in place
25. Numerous points to connect military type name for easy identification

So it is something that you might want to sink your money into for everyday protection? If you are in the States where active shooter events take place almost regularly, then you might want. If you are a worried parent especially after the Parkland incident and that schools are always targets of mass shooters, then equipping your child with the Civilian One backpack can give you peace of mind. Here is a video of child showing how to use the Civilian One:

Both the Leatherback Gear Tactical One and Civilian One are in stock at the Leatherback Gear online store. The Tactical One will cost US$399.00 and the Civilian One US$329.00. These are expensive backpacks but when you think of your love ones’ safety and your own safety was well, they can be money well-spent.