Body Protection

[mattifikation]

What would you wear? How would you protect yourself from being bitten?

There's about a million different strategies you could undertake when chosing your z-day survival outfit. Let's hear yours!

[Devilspaintbrush]

Chain mail would work very well IMHO

not overly heavy and covers most everything while still being flexible


OR

A heavy wetsuit would also be a option...no idea on how tuff they are

[Dagnammit]

The Ursus bear suit. Defensive padded armour designed for humans as a protection against grizzly and polar bears.

http://outside.away.com/outside/magazine/0597/images/grizzly2.jpg

It may be heavy, bulky and hot, but the zombies would never, EVER get through it.

[UseYourHeadCutOffTheirs]

I have a full body wetsuit waiting for me to throw on at first word of an outbreak. It's very light weight and tight, so there's no loose pieces for a zed to grab onto. Plus the material is kinda thick and tough so the zed won't be able to bite through it, atleast not very easily.:scare: Haven't you guys read Twilight of the Dead? It's the ultimate zed gear.


Other than that I would also wear leather gloves, or kevlar gloves, and really thick, yet comfortable boots.

[Zombreach]

Yeah, boots are a must! Have to watch out for those ankle biters. Outside of that, I would wear a leather jacket and pants, over regular clothes, and leather gloves.

[UseYourHeadCutOffTheirs]

Yeah, boots are a must! Have to watch out for those ankle biters. Outside of that, I would wear a leather jacket and pants, over regular clothes, and leather gloves.


What about in the summer time? You will burn up in a leather jacket all summer.


I guess we will all be miserable regardless of what we are wearing, though.:doh:

[Seway]

Body protection against zombies?
A composite quantum powered lightweight power armour with a forcefield and an infinite storage.:evil:

But to be serious, Riot Gear/Full body kevlar covers. You can get them if you are in US (Source: Friends) but i dont know about the rest of the world e.g: UK. I'll edit this post when i am sure.

[AN OLD SHOE]

i would honestly wear normal clothes...id rather move well nd be comfortable than get swarmed with zombies and have a sense of security...false or not

[Zombreach]

What about in the summer time? You will burn up in a leather jacket all summer.


I guess we will all be miserable regardless of what we are wearing, though.:doh:

I don't think a wetsuit would be any cooler! But you are right, especially where I live. But a bathing suit just won't cut it. :lol: We'd just have to deal with being hot or go out without much protection. I for one will not give up the boots though!!!

[Webber]

i would honestly wear normal clothes...id rather move well nd be comfortable than get swarmed with zombies and have a sense of security...false or not



I agree with this. I own a leather jacket, it seems like it would be impossible for someone/thing to bite through, but at the same time its hot and heavy and makes movement a bit more restricted. Since its getting warmer I'd put on a pair of khaki cargo pants and a regular black tshirt and a pair of hiking boots. Put on a backpack and find some type of weapon (I'm currently gunless but that will change once the stimulus package goes into effect) and head out. All the armor in the world will mean crap if you cant outrun your enemy.

[UseYourHeadCutOffTheirs]

I bet it would be a bit warm to wear a wetsuit considering most are black and dont breath well. I suppose you could keep it wet all the time????:doh:

When it comes to being comfortable and east to move in, it would be like a second skin. The next best thing to being naked but still dressed:drool:

[Zombie Buffet]

I have a full body wetsuit waiting for me to throw on at first word of an outbreak. It's very light weight and tight, so there's no loose pieces for a zed to grab onto. Plus the material is kinda thick and tough so the zed won't be able to bite through it, atleast not very easily.:scare: Haven't you guys read Twilight of the Dead? It's the ultimate zed gear.


Other than that I would also wear leather gloves, or kevlar gloves, and really thick, yet comfortable boots.

Here, here...:clap:

That is definitely the zombie gear I'd be wearing. :)

[Zombreach]

We could cover ourselves in oil. The zombies wouldn't be able to get a hold of us then! :lol: (not to mention the fantastic overall tan)---I know the greased pig set loose in my school by the seniors was a real bugger to catch!!!!

[Victor Clark]

We could cover ourselves in oil. The zombies wouldn't be able to get a hold of us then! :lol: (not to mention the fantastic overall tan)---I know the greased pig set loose in my school by the seniors was a real bugger to catch!!!!

:lol: I can already see a bunch of greased naked people running around zombies! It would be like Family Guy's "Catch the Greased Deaf Guy"! :lol:

The only leather thing I have is a worn out leather jacket in my closet, but not only would that hold in heat and induce dehydration, but I can also imagine a zombie biting my elbow or hand very easily! I would probably just wear my basic clothes and my denim jacket (but mostly because of it's style) when zombies are about.


If we're talking about zombie protection, why not full leather gimp suits? :lol: I know that sounds dumb, but it's sort of a combo of the 2 most popular choices here! Plus a lot of them have chains attatched that can be used as weapons.

[skullwarrior]

:lol: I can already see a bunch of greased naked people running around zombies! It would be like Family Guy's "Catch the Greased Deaf Guy"! :lol:

The only leather thing I have is a worn out leather jacket in my closet, but not only would that hold in heat and induce dehydration, but I can also imagine a zombie biting my elbow or hand very easily! I would probably just wear my basic clothes and my denim jacket (but mostly because of it's style) when zombies are about.


If we're talking about zombie protection, why not full leather gimp suits? :lol: I know that sounds dumb, but it's sort of a combo of the 2 most popular choices here! Plus a lot of them have chains attatched that can be used as weapons.

wow thats a funny image. greasy people running from zeds and most likely falling to the ground in puddles of oil.

BTW what about police dog sleaves and pants you know the stuff they use to train the dogs.

[fester_hicks]

BODY PROTECTION, if this thing came suddenly at night, i'd be damn lucky to get underwear on! Chainmail??? How about fruit of the looms, LMFAO!

[mattifikation]

Remember when choosing your protective gear, that you'll probably be inside your base most hours out of the day. Excursions outside would be for very limited periods of time (unless you were migrating to a new safe house or something.)

Sure, you can get dehydration and heat stroke from wearing thick armor or something like leather - BUT - it's not going to happen in the short periods of time you'd be venturing out.

If you went out in the early morning, you could further reduce the threat. Of course that all depends on where you live. You folks in Texas probably have more to worry about as far as heat goes than us Pennsylvanians.

At any rate, when picking your protective gear remember this: Knights didn't wear shining armor to bed, you know. :-)

[veppman]

i would prolly try to go with layers of clothes so that i have some free movement

[Augustus Desius]

Thick, soft, leather, with hardend leather over vital point (Forearms, sholders, raised collar, etc. . .).

But with the stuff I have. My leather jacket and normal cloths + my work boots.

[Darkness]

"This may sound a bit off the wall but, I was watching one of the Star Wars movies the other day, and the storm troopers garb looks pretty mobile and protective. Maybe something designed off that would work." :think:

[Augustus Desius]

:lol:

I never really thought about it, but yeah, that would work pretty well. It's only real vulnerability is in the shoulder-to-neck joint, and if you're careful, you won't have to worry about it.

:clap: Way to think out of the box!

[fester_hicks]

might be able to scrounge some off a riot cop or something, other than that, leather jacket and gloves... and a cool cowboy hat, just for looks!

[voyager]

What about the one peice padded leather armored suits for motorcycle racers? I believe that would be my choice. Just add comfortable boots, gloves and head protection and I think you'd protected and yet quiet and mobile.

http://images.channeladvisor.com/Sell/SSProfiles/13000128/Images/2/Elegant_x2_Suit-Red-f1.jpg

[Darkness]

What about the one peice padded leather armored suits for motorcycle racers? I believe that would be my choice. Just add comfortable boots, gloves and head protection and I think you'd protected and yet quiet and mobile.

http://images.channeladvisor.com/Sell/SSProfiles/13000128/Images/2/Elegant_x2_Suit-Red-f1.jpg

"Hmmmmm...... Blend that idea with the Storm Troopers garb, and we may have a real design concept." :think:

[voyager]

You know I did some research on racing armor. Some suits actually have kevlar plates build into the armor. That's kinda like stormtrooper armor but on the inside.

[Darkness]

"Excellent point, voyager, thank you for bringing that up." :)

[Onslaught]

splint armor on the forearms and possibly upper arms joined by common hockey/lacrosse elbow pads.http://tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:cBI24B-x5Im8yM:http://www.armourarchive.org/patterns/splinted_arms_dwarlock/images/pic0.jpg (http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.armourarchive.org/patterns/splinted_arms_dwarlock/images/pic0.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.armourarchive.org/patterns/splinted_arms_dwarlock/&h=353&w=475&sz=81&hl=en&start=2&um=1&tbnid=cBI24B-x5Im8yM:&tbnh=96&tbnw=129&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dsplinted%2Barms%2Barmour%2Barchive%26 um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26safe%3Doff) this arm has a formed steel elbow cup. splinted arms could also be made using modern materials such as mesh, plastic, denim, and pop-rivets.

jeans or bdu/tru/abu bottoms with greaves(shin/calf armor) most likely formed from layers of glued denim or PVC. (PVC can be formed using heat, such as boiling water or a blow dryer/heat gun) darkness, i think the pvec would get you a long way toward your stormtrooper armor. just be aware that when cut PVC does release a small ammount of chlorine gas.

http://tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:vu8Rn_Isqz33YM:http://home.messiah.edu/~gdaub/armor/pictures/fletcher/greaves2.jpg (http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://home.messiah.edu/~gdaub/armor/pictures/fletcher/greaves2.jpg&imgrefurl=http://home.messiah.edu/~gdaub/armor/picgloss.htm&h=276&w=214&sz=7&hl=en&start=18&um=1&tbnid=vu8Rn_Isqz33YM:&tbnh=114&tbnw=88&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dgreaves%2Barmour%2B%26um%3D1%26hl%3De n%26safe%3Doff)

boots.

load bearing vest. i defy anyone to bite through a 1000 denier codura LBV. especially loaded out with pouches.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v306/blackrain02/MOLLE-306.jpg

the cool things about this vest are that it has an internal hydration bladder pouch, it is lined with PALS webbing for the attachment of an unlimited number of modular MOLLE pouches, and i picked one up (for paintball use) for $30.

[kai055]

i ave seen on a website that in thailand they wear leech pads from the waist down and from wat i read its man made material but says it is as strong as leather and that stormtrooper idea with the racing suit sounds realli kl

[kai055]

i ave also seen that if u had a gaunlets like saurons to protect ur hands and could be a weapons, other protection like the spartans shields also that had the face masks of the immortals for 300 and they would be a good face protection only the eyes are open

[Webber]

i ave also seen that if u had a gaunlets like saurons to protect ur hands and could be a weapons, other protection like the spartans shields also that had the face masks of the immortals for 300 and they would be a good face protection only the eyes are open


The problem with wearing any helmet is its added weight for reduced benefits. Most helmets will reduce your peripheral vision along with any neck/head movement, plus I'd assume its a real pain to go prone wearing a helmet and trying to shoot.

I've been thinking and I've come to the conclusion that depending on your body type and how exactly you're going to go in a zombie outbreak will decide on what you should wear. If you're on the move I whole heartedly believe you should as little "armor" as possible so you have more room and strength for gear that you will need. If you are say staying in a building, armoring yourself wouldn't be as bad because you are in a confined area.

You're stamina will also come into play into situations like this. How far can you truly run wearing all your gear (lets say for sake of simplicity you have about 50 lbs of gear, firearms *or for our UK brethren some sort of bludgeon or bladed weaponry* ammunition, food, water, misc. gear like rope, knives, crowbar, medical supplies, extra set of clothing, flashlights, batteries, compass, maps and whatever it is you're wearing). If you dont exercise regularly this could pose as a problem, though I guess the threat of dieing will motivate anyone to go that extra mile. I'm not saying this to discourage wearing protective clothing/gear, just throwing it out there for something else to think about.

[bandits1]

I wouldn't wear too much armor - doesn't make sense to be 100% bite-proof but not be able to outrun the zombies anymore. Or dehydrate to death.

I'd start with:
- BladeRunner™ Covert Long Sleeved T-Shirt lined with woven aramid fiber
- TurtleSkin SnakeArmor pants (if a snake's fangs can't get through the material, I'm guessing a human's can't either)
- BladeRunner™ Mk2 Kevlar gloves w/ knuckle protection
- lightweight forearm protectors
- knee/elbow pads
- leather tactical boots
- anti-riot vest
http://img110.imageshack.us/img110/2138/garments101bigam8.jpg

...and, of course, my trusty black rice-cooker baseball cap:
http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/4827/pflexfitin5.gif

[mattifikation]

That sounds like pretty heavy gear actually. That vest looks like it would be a pain in the butt to move around in.

I really think ordinary waterproofed leather clothing, with a raised leather collar close to your neck, would do the trick. You'd still feel the pain when a zombie bit you, but the really important thing is that their saliva doesn't get in your blood.

[surviveordie]

if you plan and prepare well enough you should be able to go around in a bathrobe and slippers drinking coffee. but if i had to choose i would dress seasonally, for the winter i would wear steel toed boots, leather gloves and a leather welders suit. those things are built to take some serious damage. and they are warm. i would also have a kevlar helmet with chin strap and chain mail around my head and neck with some clear goggles to protect the eyes.
in the summer i would wear the same stuff except for the welders suit, in its place i would wear some carheart jeans with a leather jacket. it may get hot and my be strenuous but it is much better then being eaten.

[kai055]

its only a metal face with cloth over da back and sides

[C J]

I always wondered what it would be like if someone went as "bubble boy." Amusing to say the least. Imagine someone rolling around in a plastic ball with a bunch of zeds trying to get at them.

[kai055]

wat about a lightweight but strong all in one jump suit and with something like a paintball mask and gloves

[bandits1]

That sounds like pretty heavy gear actually. That vest looks like it would be a pain in the butt to move around in...
Nah, I'd imagine those blunt-trauma/riot/cut-resistant vests are pretty light compared to the bullet-proof types.

[kai055]

in england there a company near me that have developed stab and bullet proof hoodies with da kevlar and there pretty lightweight

[Webber]

wat about a lightweight but strong all in one jump suit and with something like a paintball mask and gloves


Again, I dont see the point in helmets/masks, they only limit your peripheral vision then you're just asking to be ambushed by other things then zombies. Not to mention they make it harder to breath.

[stonyman65]

Im not shure, I would dress comfortably. maybe have some type of a tactical vest that would help with bites on my shoulders.

[jim96sc2]

Again, I dont see the point in helmets/masks, they only limit your peripheral vision then you're just asking to be ambushed by other things then zombies. Not to mention they make it harder to breath.

They also protect you against facial attacks whcih would blind you. One errant zombie hand slashing around your face with dirty fingers/bone stumps would make for a bad day, even if you don't get bit. Protecting your eyes is a primary natural reaction for a reason, we're sight hunters. Paintball masks don't hamper vision too much, especially the newer models, and any added protection is useful. I'd try and get ahold of a riot helmet though, sturdier, better protection, and a large clear face shield.

[bandits1]

Again, I dont see the point in helmets/masks, they only limit your peripheral vision then you're just asking to be ambushed by other things then zombies. Not to mention they make it harder to breath.
Agreed. I wouldn't want anything hampering my vision or breathing in exchange for a bit of protection. It's the same as wearing so much armor that you become clumsy and slow...pointless.

The most bulky things I'd wear on my head is a skull-cap and clear-lensed M-Frames.

http://img507.imageshack.us/img507/5180/polishedyf6.jpg

[Webber]

They also protect you against facial attacks whcih would blind you. One errant zombie hand slashing around your face with dirty fingers/bone stumps would make for a bad day, even if you don't get bit. Protecting your eyes is a primary natural reaction for a reason, we're sight hunters. Paintball masks don't hamper vision too much, especially the newer models, and any added protection is useful. I'd try and get ahold of a riot helmet though, sturdier, better protection, and a large clear face shield.

What happens when a zombie goes to slash at your face, but his hand gets caught on the mask? It'll go straight down into your chest with the majority of it still in your face, affecting your vision even more. I'm sorry if this is sounding like I'm getting on you, I was just pointing some stuff out (I'm not the combative type on the internet, so please dont think I'm trying to start an argument or something.)

But I understand what you're saying, I myself own a pair of Dye I3's. The Profilers seem to me to be able to grant the best peripheral vision, but again, you won't find me wearing facial protection other then MAYBE sunglasses come a zombie infection. However, choose as you want. If it works for you then go for it, the more protection that won't hinder you the better. You also may have a different style come a zombie apocalypse, I'm gonna try and remain as silent and hidden as possible...

[jim96sc2]

What happens when a zombie goes to slash at your face, but his hand gets caught on the mask? It'll go straight down into your chest with the majority of it still in your face, affecting your vision even more. I'm sorry if this is sounding like I'm getting on you, I was just pointing some stuff out (I'm not the combative type on the internet, so please dont think I'm trying to start an argument or something.)

But I understand what you're saying, I myself own a pair of Dye I3's. The Profilers seem to me to be able to grant the best peripheral vision, but again, you won't find me wearing facial protection other then MAYBE sunglasses come a zombie infection. However, choose as you want. If it works for you then go for it, the more protection that won't hinder you the better. You also may have a different style come a zombie apocalypse, I'm gonna try and remain as silent and hidden as possible...

No worries, its all in good fun bro. :drinking:

A Zombie may move, pull away, or otherwise hinder your vision temporarily, but I'd say it beats permanent vision problems resulting from an eye enjury. You can always toss the face shield. Regrowing eyes would be harder.

[Webber]

No worries, its all in good fun bro. :drinking:

A Zombie may move, pull away, or otherwise hinder your vision temporarily, but I'd say it beats permanent vision problems resulting from an eye enjury. You can always toss the face shield. Regrowing eyes would be harder.


Unless you're that dude from Men In Black....

[Tripoli]

Rawhide clothing. . . I did not say leather, I said “RAWHIDE”!

[DBCooper]

Rawhide. . . Now you know what I'm talking about...

[RogueAI]

Rawhide? Yes, lets armor ourselves in the same stuff used to make animal chew toys! Thats just the thing to defeat biting opponents.

I vote a shark suit. I don't know how loud they are, but I think it'd be quieter then chainmail.

[Onslaught]

Rawhide? Yes, lets armor ourselves in the same stuff used to make animal chew toys! Thats just the thing to defeat biting opponents.

I vote a shark suit. I don't know how loud they are, but I think it'd be quieter then chainmail.

rawhide is also known as "indian iron". it is strong enough to be used for lashing an axehead to the handle. it may be used in chew toys, but why do you think that is? maybe because it can stand up to some pretty serious chewing from large dogs??

the main threat from a zombie will be the incisors and canines. any humanoid would need several minutes (like 45) of serious gnawing with the molars in order to chew through rawhide.

and for the record. a shark suit is chain maille. i have yet to see a sharksuit that was not made of many small interlocking metal rings, also known as maille. (not mail)

the problem with maille is that it is too floppy and loose. it gets it's strength from its flexibility. when struck, the links bunch up and create a denser defence. this floppiness is also noisy and requires extra weight.

[Zombreach]

Wearing rawhide would just make you into a chew-toy for Zombies. I can't imagine trying to walk in a rawhide suit. Although it would be comical to watch. Besides, that stuff would chaff your skin raw. A little zombie drool into all those open wounds from your suit, and you're a zombie-waiting-to- happen! :lol:

[DBCooper]

It’s obvious a few of you don’t understand what Rawhide is. Then some think of steel body suit with tens of thousands of small holes is a good idea. Well it is the proof that thinking inside the box lives in this forum. . .

For those of you who support rawhide, WAY TO GO!

[RogueAI]

rawhide is also known as "indian iron". it is strong enough to be used for lashing an axehead to the handle. it may be used in chew toys, but why do you think that is? maybe because it can stand up to some pretty serious chewing from large dogs??

the main threat from a zombie will be the incisors and canines. any humanoid would need several minutes (like 45) of serious gnawing with the molars in order to chew through rawhide.

and for the record. a shark suit is chain maille. i have yet to see a sharksuit that was not made of many small interlocking metal rings, also known as maille. (not mail)

the problem with maille is that it is too floppy and loose. it gets it's strength from its flexibility. when struck, the links bunch up and create a denser defence. this floppiness is also noisy and requires extra weight.

I thought my text was sarcastic enough it wouldn't be mistaken as literal. I actually like the idea otherwise I would have responded with a rant about why your idea is inferior. Of course, you didn't know this, but it doesn't matter.

And, YES! A Shark suit is chain mail. I differentiated between the two because chain mail brings imagines of medieval chain mail which is generally made using larger rings of softer metal. Modern mail armor tends to be tighter, lighter, and uses stronger material. It should hold up substantially longer then rawhide, it will protect your joints unlike rawhide, and doesn't hinder movement. Despite being metal, a suit of leather armor is about the weight of a shark suit. Don't mistake either for light weight!

[RogueAI]

It’s obvious a few of you don’t understand what Rawhide is. Then some think of steel body suit with tens of thousands of small holes is a good idea.

Rawhide. Its raw untanned hide. What is not to understand?

Those tends of thousands of small holes is not a bad thing. They let it 'breath' so that sweat can escape easier. A real issue in leather. The fabric surrounding the shark suit, if any, is generally designed to either trap heat for colder waters (about the same effect as leather) or allow moister to quickly move through it so you are more comfortable in warmer water (you won't overheat so quickly).

A zombie can't bite through the holes. For combat they are irrelevant. Even 4mm bullets are larger then the holes in shark suits. Of course, they'll go through the shark suit anyway as easily as they would raw hide.

Well it is the proof that thinking inside the box lives in this forum. . .

For those of you who support rawhide, WAY TO GO!

During a discussion about armor any armor is inside the box. The box being a mediator for both the topic and it's traditional answers. The idea is to decide the most effective of those armors. Outside of the box thinking would not be the rawhide supporters, but the guy who suggested staying in doors and wearing no armor.

Well it is the proof that pretentiousness and condescension lives in this forum. . .

[Darkness]

"How about shark suits, re-enforced with raw-hide armor in key places?" :think:

[RogueAI]

"How about shark suits, re-enforced with raw-hide armor in key places?" :think:

I have never been more afraid of losing my testicles to a zombie then I am right now. :x

[Darkness]

"And why is that idea so far-fetched?"

[Onslaught]

I thought my text was sarcastic enough it wouldn't be mistaken as literal. I actually like the idea otherwise I would have responded with a rant about why your idea is inferior. Of course, you didn't know this, but it doesn't matter.

And, YES! A Shark suit is chain mail. I differentiated between the two because chain mail brings imagines of medieval chain mail which is generally made using larger rings of softer metal. Modern mail armor tends to be tighter, lighter, and uses stronger material. It should hold up substantially longer then rawhide, it will protect your joints unlike rawhide, and doesn't hinder movement. Despite being metal, a suit of leather armor is about the weight of a shark suit. Don't mistake either for light weight!

the big problem i see with a mille suit is that it is overkill.
we may have very different ideas of how one would react in a ZPAW.
in my view, any outdoor movement would be fast, quiet, and covert. 95% of the time zombies would be evaded. those that were dispatched would be due to necessity. (those that are standing between me and my current goal) think more Splinter Cell and less Rambo. Stealth would be the order of the day, and i would already be carrying enough gear. 40 additional pounds of tinkling maille covering my entire body does not fit my plans. strong lightweight armor on my hands/forearms/elbows and shins/knees is about all i'm willing to go for.
lets face it, the chances of getting bitten on your hands or forearms are about 10,000 times greater than having your bellybutton nibbled out. overall body protection can be accomplished much more effectively by commonly available clothing. the torso will be the least available target due to jackets, vests, backpacks, and whatever else you may be wearing. the extremeties will be most vulnerable, and therefore in need of the most protection. maille is nice, but far from the best option for the treat we are discussing.

[RogueAI]

"And why is that idea so far-fetched?"

Its not. Thats why I am scared.

Anyway, the point of shark suit is not escape and evasion, at least I hope not. I think of wearing armor only as a last resort. Zombies have broken through your fence and are in your garden. If you want to keep your renewable food supply you must remove the zombies from your garden. It is a last resort thing when running and ranged weapons are not an effective/possible option. (Bullets = Small pieces of zombie on your plants)

Scenario. Your out hunting. Stealth is your biggest concern. Speed is secondary. You are entirely focused on your prey. Out of no where a legless zombie that has been quietly crawling through the bush towards you grabs on and bites down hard. Hes too close to shoot, and any amount of speed won't help you now. Thankfully, armor is covering your leg. Your wanting to be quiet, so rawhide here is better then a Shark Suit. The metal rings will make some sound.

Scenario #2. Your driving down the road 28Days style. Your car breaks down, perhaps in a tunnel. You go to change the tire. Six fast zombies come running up on you. Only, unlike in the movie, you don't have time to change your tire. You fire at them with your rifle but two manage to survive and begin trying to grapple you. Here, the flexibility and protection of a shark suit beats rawhide. The clinking of the links, if any, is not of your concern.

Personally, through out the entire event, I plan on being behind a thick brick wall.

[Darkness]

Its not. That's why I am scared.

Anyway, the point of shark suit is not escape and evasion, at least I hope not. I think of wearing armor only as a last resort. Zombies have broken through your fence and are in your garden. If you want to keep your renewable food supply you must remove the zombies from your garden. It is a last resort thing when running and ranged weapons are not an effective/possible option. (Bullets = Small pieces of zombie on your plants)

Scenario. Your out hunting. Stealth is your biggest concern. Speed is secondary. You are entirely focused on your prey. Out of no where a legless zombie that has been quietly crawling through the bush towards you grabs on and bites down hard. Hes too close to shoot, and any amount of speed won't help you now. Thankfully, armor is covering your leg. Your wanting to be quiet, so rawhide here is better then a Shark Suit. The metal rings will make some sound.

Scenario #2. Your driving down the road 28Days style. Your car breaks down, perhaps in a tunnel. You go to change the tire. Six fast zombies come running up on you. Only, unlike in the movie, you don't have time to change your tire. You fire at them with your rifle but two manage to survive and begin trying to grapple you. Here, the flexibility and protection of a shark suit beats rawhide. The clinking of the links, if any, is not of your concern.

Personally, through out the entire event, I plan on being behind a thick brick wall.

"Thank you. I just wasn't sure where you were going with it." :)

"What about Kevlar with rawhide armour added? That would be quieter, right?" :think:

[RogueAI]

"Thank you. I just wasn't sure where you were going with it." :)

"What about Kevlar with rawhide armour added? That would be quieter, right?" :think:

With rawhide you shouldn't have a sound issue. Shark suit you might, depending on the type. Kevlar is probably best covering your torso encase game is rare and you get into a fire fight looking for it.

[DBCooper]

Rawhide would be quiet, allow good movement, and is durable. A body suit would not be needed just at a few strategic locations. When a person is pounced on by several zombies not even a Kevlar or a chain suit will protect the user.

[Darkness]

Rawhide would be quiet, allow good movement, and is durable. A body suit would not be needed just at a few strategic locations. When a person is pounced on by several zombies not even a Kevlar or a chain suit will protect the user.

"I'm thinking of something along the lines of a StormTrooer type suit, but not quite as intense or bulky. With Rawhide as the hard protective areas, and Kevlar for those areas you need freedom of movement."

[mattifikation]

Kevlar doesn't actually offer a whole lot of freedom of movement. It's not a cloth like fabric, it's very rigid.

[jim96sc2]

I'd stay away from rawhide and kevlar. Give me thick denim and chainmail.

[RogueAI]

Rawhide would be quiet, allow good movement, and is durable. A body suit would not be needed just at a few strategic locations. When a person is pounced on by several zombies not even a Kevlar or a chain suit will protect the user.

Rawhide that allows good movement doesn't allow for good protection. When the raw hide is sun hardened and dried is when it becomes able to stop teeth. The rawhide that is soft and flexible that you turn into things like blankets is very easily bitten through; slightly harder then human skin. You can make resistant soft leather, but then it ceases to be raw hide. If you want to stick to animal skin for joints then leather is the way to go. I would wear a suit of leather armor before I worse a suit of rawhide armor anyway. The reason it was normally warn as armor in the dark ages instead of rawhide was because it is more resistant to extended use, allows for more freedom of movement, and offers greater protection (the leathering process actually thickens it).

If you are only worried about bites then AND need to travel, then yes, forearms & lower legs are probably all you would need. However, if your in a fixed position, or the zombies are able to use basic tools then you might want full body protection. Lets not forget other hazards like raiders; Kevlar vests might be nice there. You really think your going to be the only human alive?

As for biting itself, the human jaw is extremely powerful. More so then most people often think about. We can easily rip flesh from bone. At any given time your nervous system is limiting the number of muscle fibers you can use to about 33% of 'em to avoid damage. During an extremely stressful period our nervous system removes this limitation making us stronger at the risk of ripping muscle from bone. A zombie might not have that limitation which probably would allow them to bite through soft armor we wouldn't normally be able too. The metal in chain mail might be enough to break the teeth though preventing then from getting through. If it doesn't shatter their teeth it still takes a substantially greater force to bite through then leather. For more information on this phenomenon see this thread (http://www.allthingszombie.com/forums/showthread.php?t=15983).

"I'm thinking of something along the lines of a StormTrooer type suit, but not quite as intense or bulky. With Rawhide as the hard protective areas, and Kevlar for those areas you need freedom of movement."

Chain would be superior to Kevlar for joints. It allows for more flexibility and protection then leather and more flexibility then Kevlar. The trade off is possible sound. You can make surprisingly quiet suits of chain mail though.

This website has good information on bullet proof vests if you want to go with Kevlar/ceramic plate. It is a decent website to buy from too. When my cousin jointed a rural police force. They had him buy his own vest and gave him a refund. He bought from here, and wasn't screwed. I don't see it protecting you from zombies, but fights with humans may occur too. (http://www.bulletproofme.com/)

[Darkness]

"Kevlar is a weave, and can be made to be more pliable."

[RogueAI]

"Kevlar is a weave, and can be made to be more pliable."

But can it easily be bought or home made in such a way?

On an interesting note, Kevlar can't stop a knife*. It can stop a bullet where chainmail and leather can't, though. If it were softer, would it still be able to stop a bullet? If not, why not just use chainmail or leather? Cheaper, easier to get, maybe lighter (I haven't ever actually warn Kevlar).

*I can find a source for that. However, I don't know one off the top of my head. If you want me to look I will.

[Darkness]

"Sure! Information is always good to have." :)

[RogueAI]

"Sure! Information is always good to have." :)

All I found quickly was this (http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/18/kevlar-lined-clothing-a-hot-commodity-in-london/). It seems to disagree with my saying Kevlar vests won't stop knives. I'm not stopping my search though. I will find it! ^_^

There was a TV show on Discovery Science, my television's default channel, that was doing a segment on bullet proof vests and knives. The problem was the knife is thinner then a bullet thus more pounds per sq inch are generated at the blade's tip. Force from the impact happens twice; once when the knife strikes and a second a few moments later when the weight of the body follows through. The second spike in force along with the thin edge of the blade allowed the knife to pierce Kevlar. Because of this, and the disproportional number of knife attacks in the UK compared to gun attacks, the UK police force is/was testing new knife pierce resistant vests. One of the designs was splint mail style and another was chain mail.

I'm still trying to find the show.

[Lian]

Body protection...hm... Well in the words of my motorcycle instructor better cowhide than my hide.

Beyond that though I don't have much input, actually truth be told I will probably opt for some BDU's over a leather riding suit anyway. I suppose some form of body armor might come in handy but I for one just don't want to carry all the extra weight. I would much rather be light and mobile than invincible. Bulletproof vests are nice and light until you put in 40 pounds of strike plates. A helmet may stop your head from getting shot off but if they know I'm there, to shoot me, then one I messed up pretty bad and two I didn't want to be there to begin with, I'll go around.

My body armor will probably stop at something wrapped around my neck to stop a bite if I suddenly get grabbed from behind, a situation which won't last long if I have anything to say about it but that's about it. Beyond that I'll trust in my clothes to stop any bites I don't see coming before I can stop them and just stay aware and stay alive, of other survivors/raiders/lunatics/hippee's

[Headless Lynx]

I would wear tight fitting clothes, but not to tight so it restricts my arm or leg movements. Leather would be good if it was in the winter but I would prefer it if the clothes were made of the material that is used for surfing suits or whatever those things are called. They would retain plenty of heat in the winter and would keep me cool in the summer.

Maybe some armoured gloves, knee pads, elbow pads and probably a concealable kevlar vest. I could pick up this kind of stuff for about 250 quid. A balaclava would be useful and I would make sure that everything that I wear is black. Don't want those zeds to recognise me in the dark. Boots with aluminium or carbon fibre covers, that'll stop them damn zeds from biting my toes off.

[DBCooper]

I guess what some people forget is all body protection will require maintenance and RAWHIDE is no difference. Saying this, rawhide will be one of the easies to keep supple and in good condition as it take small amounts of leather conditioner to accomplish this. Just because its 2008 that doesn’t mean we can forget our past!

Rawhide is NOT the same as leather products…. LOL… That is why it is referred to as RAWHIDE. 15 to 20 times tougher than most leather products!

[Slash Maraud]

Chain mail is heavy and so is splint mail armor.

Has anyone ever seen the Damascus Riot armor? Available through US Cavalry and Striechers. There is also hard shell cell extraction armor. Both those suits are light weight, don't restrict movement too much, allow you to stay relatively cool without too much overheating although there is an attachment for a Camelback or similar hydration system for that event and has protection from head to toe. Both come with their own storage bags and can tossed in with your ZED kit. I've worn the Damascus armor a couple of times and had no problem with movement or overheating. I keep it in the back of my patrol vehicle and its not too big or bulky of a bag to take alot of space. You can find them for about $300.00 +/-

[RogueAI]

Rawhide is NOT the same as leather products…. LOL… That is why it is referred to as RAWHIDE. 15 to 20 times tougher than most leather products!

Genius. Leather is tanned rawhide. During tanning the leather is loses surface area and becomes thicker. This along with the strengthening that occurs during tanning makes leather much stronger then rawhide. Don't confuse leather armor with that good-looking leather your car seat is covered in.

This thread just hit a new low. I'm leaving it be from now on.

[Darkness]

"Rawhide is leather hide, that is first tanned, then boiled to shrink it and make it rock hard. I know, I've made it before."

[DBCooper]

Genius. Leather is tanned rawhide. During tanning the leather is loses surface area and becomes thicker. This along with the strengthening that occurs during tanning makes leather much stronger then rawhide. Don't confuse leather armor with that good-looking leather your car seat is covered in.

This thread just hit a new low. I'm leaving it be from now on.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rawhide

Rawhide is a hide or animal skin that has not been exposed to tanning. It is much lighter in color than leather made by traditional vegetable tanning. The skin from buffalo, deer, elk or cattle from which most rawhide originates is prepared by removing all fur, meat and fat. The hide is then usually stretched over a frame before being dried. The resulting material is hard and translucent. It can be shaped by rewetting and forming before being allowed to thoroughly re-dry. It can be rendered more pliable by 'working', i.e. bending repeatedly in multiple directions, often by rubbing it over a post, sometimes traditionally by chewing. It may also be oiled or greased for a degree of waterproofing.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leather
Leather is leather that is created from the fibrous part of the hide left once the Top-Grain of the raw hide has been separated from the hide. During the splitting operation the grain and drop split are separated. The drop split can be further split (thickness allowing) into a middle split and a flesh split. In very thick hides the middle split can be separated into multiple layers until the thickness prevents further splitting. Split leather then has an artificial layer applied to the surface of the split and is embossed with a leather grain. Splits can are also used to create Suede.

Most leather found in use today is SPLIT leather(1 piece of hide slice thin many times). More products for the buck. . . This is the common leathers purchased at any outlet. . . Rawhide is thicker and more durable!

A little research on your part would have helped. . .With that NEW low.

[RogueAI]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rawhide

Rawhide is a hide or animal skin that has not been exposed to tanning. It is much lighter in color than leather made by traditional vegetable tanning. The skin from buffalo, deer, elk or cattle from which most rawhide originates is prepared by removing all fur, meat and fat. The hide is then usually stretched over a frame before being dried. The resulting material is hard and translucent. It can be shaped by rewetting and forming before being allowed to thoroughly re-dry. It can be rendered more pliable by 'working', i.e. bending repeatedly in multiple directions, often by rubbing it over a post, sometimes traditionally by chewing. It may also be oiled or greased for a degree of waterproofing.

The part that is bolded is exactly what my last post said. The rest of it I haven't disagreed with once and only speaks for the process of working the rawhide not to it's strength. In fact, your the only one who has disagreed it. I'll quote it for you. V V

Rawhide is NOT the same as leather products…. LOL… That is why it is referred to as RAWHIDE. 15 to 20 times tougher than most leather products!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leather
Leather is leather that is created from the fibrous part of the hide left once the Top-Grain of the raw hide has been separated from the hide. During the splitting operation the grain and drop split are separated. The drop split can be further split (thickness allowing) into a middle split and a flesh split. In very thick hides the middle split can be separated into multiple layers until the thickness prevents further splitting. Split leather then has an artificial layer applied to the surface of the split and is embossed with a leather grain. Splits can are also used to create Suede.

Most leather found in use today is SPLIT leather(1 piece of hide slice thin many times). More products for the buck. . . This is the common leathers purchased at any outlet. . . Rawhide is thicker and more durable!

That is leather like you find on car seat or on your sofa. In my last post I even asked you not to confuse armor leather with leather used for decoration yet you did it anyway.


A little research on your part would have helped. . .With that NEW low.

Obviously my research isn't lacking. You've quoted nothing that disagrees with what I have said. On the other hand, perhaps you should do a little more research on subjects before beginning to debate.

So much for me leaving this thread. *sigh*

[DBCooper]

Wait just a minute, RogueAI you say, “The rawhide that is soft and flexible that you turn into things like blankets” Rawhide Blankets? Now that’s funny I don’t care who you are. Then you say, “During tanning the leather is loses surface area and becomes thicker.” STOP you are killing me (haha), loses surface area yet becomes thicker? Stop, please stop I can’t take it anymore. “This thread just hit a new low. I'm leaving it be from now on.” (rofl) “So much for me leaving this thread. *sigh*” ROFL! HAHAH! Chuckle, chuckle, chuckle. Okay, okay, I’m good now. I am sure we are going to keep disagreeing on “Body Protection” and I’m sorry if are disagreement is flaming you. In an attempt to keep things friendly I will not post again referencing your comments.

This is my only point – “Rawhide would be quiet, allow good movement, and is durable. A body suit would not be needed just at a few strategic locations. When a person is pounced on by several zombies not even a Kevlar or a chain suit will protect the user.” – Don’t get caught up in splitting hides.

[Darkness]

Wait just a minute, RogueAI you say, “The rawhide that is soft and flexible that you turn into things like blankets” Rawhide Blankets? Now that’s funny I don’t care who you are. Then you say, “During tanning the leather is loses surface area and becomes thicker.”STOP you are killing me (haha), loses surface area yet becomes thicker? Stop, please stop I can’t take it anymore. “This thread just hit a new low. I'm leaving it be from now on.” (rofl) “So much for me leaving this thread. *sigh*” ROFL! HAHAH! Chuckle, chuckle, chuckle. Okay, okay, I’m good now. I am sure we are going to keep disagreeing on “Body Protection” and I’m sorry if are disagreement is flaming you. In an attempt to keep things friendly I will not post again referencing your comments.

This is my only point – “Rawhide would be quiet, allow good movement, and is durable. A body suit would not be needed just at a few strategic locations. When a person is pounced on by several zombies not even a Kevlar or a chain suit will protect the user.” – Don’t get caught up in splitting hides.

"I believe he means that it shrinks side to side, making the leather swell to a thicker density."



"I have a question, what is the difference between the 'raw hide' used in a chew toy and leather hardened by boiling?" :think:

[DBCooper]

"I believe he means that it shrinks side to side, making the leather swell to a thicker density."

"I have a question, what is the difference between the 'raw hide' used in a chew toy and leather hardened by boiling?" :think:

The process of making rawhide includes stretching, drying, removing hair, fat, and any meat on the surface of the hide/skin (short version). This makes the hide hard like a thin sheet of plywood. Oils and or conditioners can be added to the hide and make them supple.

Your chew toys are scrap pieces of hide and are of poor quality. No part ot the hide is tossed.

Boiled leather, sometimes called cuir bouilli, was a historical construction material for armor. It consists of thick leather, boiled in water (some sources hold that oil and wax were used as well, others use of ammonia from fermented animal urine). The boiling causes the leather to be harder and more brittle. The boiled leather can be fashioned into lames/scales to make lamellar or scale armor. Or, because the leather remains flexible for a short time after boiling, it can be molded and give you those cool vests.

[Darkness]

"What do they do to the leather in the chew toys to make it so rock hard?"

[DBCooper]

Boil and let dry. That is all it takes. As you might see as the animal chews on the hide toy and they slobber all over it, the hide softens. Just add water.

[Darkness]

Boil and let dry. That is all it takes. As you might see as the animal chews on the hide toy and they slobber all over it, the hide softens. Just add water.

"Then isn't that indeed the same as boiled leather?"

[RogueAI]

Wait just a minute, RogueAI you say, “The rawhide that is soft and flexible that you turn into things like blankets” Rawhide Blankets? Now that’s funny I don’t care who you are.

Google Hide Blanket. Its raw hide, not leather. Its soft, not hard. Its not good for armor, but its the only raw hide that'll work for armor joints. Edit; the ancient Greeks used soft rawhide like that for their hoplites boots. So, yeah, it does have it's uses in armor I guess. ^_^

Then you say, “During tanning the leather is loses surface area and becomes thicker.” STOP you are killing me (haha), loses surface area yet becomes thicker? Stop, please stop I can’t take it anymore. .

Yep. It loses surface area and becomes thicker. Not a hard concept to understand.

“This thread just hit a new low. I'm leaving it be from now on.” (rofl) “So much for me leaving this thread. *sigh*” ROFL! HAHAH! Chuckle, chuckle, chuckle. Okay, okay, I’m good now. I am sure we are going to keep disagreeing on “Body Protection” and I’m sorry if are disagreement is flaming you. In an attempt to keep things friendly I will not post again referencing your comments. .

I like to argue. I can't seem to stop. :x Friendly debate, flame war, or fists out. Its who I am. :evil: Don't worry about being friendly. There is no way you could offend me. There is no way I could ever take you that seriously. I'm just going to try to keep it civil enough Darkness won't take offense; she scares me.

This is my only point – “Rawhide would be quiet, allow good movement, and is durable. A body suit would not be needed just at a few strategic locations. When a person is pounced on by several zombies not even a Kevlar or a chain suit will protect the user.” – Don’t get caught up in splitting hides.

Remember that song "Anything you can do I can do better, I can do anything better then you." Anything rawhide can do leather can do better, leather can do anything better then rawhide. The only thing rawhide has going for it over leather is it is slightly easier for someone to make then leather.

In most cases, I agree with you; only a few small locations is armor needed. However, a good old Shark Suit won't hurt if your going to have to be close to the Zeds anyway such as clearing out a house. Go in with your forarms, lower legs, and neck protected when your clearing out a house if you want. I'll be wearing a Shark Suit incase they can either use simple weapons or decide to bite down somewhere you didn't predict. In all other cases no armor is better then armor for speed and endurance.


I think I see your style of debate now. Quote randomly things that you hope make your point and defeats your opponent's arguement. If that doesn't work, and you bolster his arguement instead, resort to quoting what your opponent says and add in chuckes or laughs. Thats quiet unique. I'm suprised you haven't pointed out spelling errors and used it to insult my intellegence yet. Thats normally the second line of defense in a forum debate.

The process of making rawhide includes stretching, drying, removing hair, fat, and any meat on the surface of the hide/skin (short version). This makes the hide hard like a thin sheet of plywood. Oils and or conditioners can be added to the hide and make them supple.

Your chew toys are scrap pieces of hide and are of poor quality. No part ot the hide is tossed.

Boiled leather, sometimes called cuir bouilli, was a historical construction material for armor. It consists of thick leather, boiled in water (some sources hold that oil and wax were used as well, others use of ammonia from fermented animal urine). The boiling causes the leather to be harder and more brittle. The boiled leather can be fashioned into lames/scales to make lamellar or scale armor. Or, because the leather remains flexible for a short time after boiling, it can be molded and give you those cool vests.

By the way, you really should add quotes and cite the source everytime you quote something otherwise it is plagiarism.

[RogueAI]

"Then isn't that indeed the same as boiled leather?"

Rawhide can be a bit of a misnomer. Once boiled it is both rawhide and leather. Rawhide is simply leather untreated by chemicals. Rawhide in the strictest since is simply hide removed from the animal, had the hair/fat/ect removed, then sun dried. This is soft rawhide and it isn't as strong as leather.

I wouldn't use boiled leather armor either. You'll probably be sweating a fair bit more then normal, and you'll probably outside atleast some in the rain. While vegetable leather isn't water proof either, it holds up better against moisture. Of course, applying oil does help greatly.

[Darkness]

Rawhide can be a bit of a misnomer. Once boiled it is both rawhide and leather. Rawhide is simply leather untreated by chemicals. Rawhide in the strictest since is simply hide removed from the animal, had the hair/fat/ect removed, then sun dried. This is soft rawhide and it isn't as strong as leather.

I wouldn't use boiled leather armor either. You'll probably be sweating a fair bit more then normal, and you'll probably outside atleast some in the rain. While vegetable leather isn't water proof either, it holds up better against moisture. Of course, applying oil does help greatly.

"Sorry, you misunderstood my query. I'm just pondering the connection between the hard rawhide used in chew toys and boiled leather. Trying to understand the differences and similarities."

[mattifikation]

I had a boring day at work today. So, I started thinking about awesome zombie armor. What about using thin strips of leather in a loose weave, kind of like what you see as decoration on some belts? That would allow your skin to breath and with a wicking shirt underneath, would allow moisture to escape keeping you cool on the hot days. At the same time, you'd still get the tough teeth-resistant qualities of leather.

Oh, and what about alligator skin? That's pretty tough isn't it? I'm not filthy rich so I've never worn anything made from it. Does it have any advantages over leather?

[Darkness]

"Both, woven and banded leather, (leather strips one way, metal strips the other way, in the weave.) were used long ago for armor. You idea isn't so far-fetched." :)

[Darkness]

"I'd like to take this down a side trail for a minute, It's not 'off topic', just to the side of it."

"We are presently talking about possibly using leather armor in places, so I have a question. Say you have leather bits in your armor, and something happens to make it mold in some places. What do you use to recondition it, and kill the mold spores in the hide? You won't always have the time or resources to replace it every time, so keeping it up is also important." :think:

[mattifikation]

I suppose you could soak it in alcohol. That should kill the mold. Just don't wear it around any open flames until it dries.

[Darkness]

I suppose you could soak it in alcohol. That should kill the mold. Just don't wear it around any open flames until it dries.

"I thought alcohol was bad for leather."

[mattifikation]

I have no idea. Besides, is it bad for the condition or just for the color? I wouldn't care if it turned pink, as long as it still stopped me from getting bitten.

Does anyone know if a fencing uniform would be a good choice?

[DBCooper]

Clean with a pH balanced leather wash it will not strip or dry out leather. {Lexol is a pH balanced Leather Cleaner} This prepares the leather for a leather restorer/conditioner.


BTW - "pHisoderm", has complete line of pH balanced cleansers too.,

[detpat]

anybody consider molded lexan or other plastic or polymer armor? I used to hate guys who wore this stuff to fight in the sca, as it was lighter and more mobile and nearly as protective as my steel 3/4 armor was.

cuir bouilii was made with all of those materials at one time or another. boiling in oil made the leather hard and was water resistant, wax was also good but the hot sun would make it soften. many folks didn't treat it long enough and that also allowed heat to soften it as did using black finish leather which absorbed light and held heat.

I've spent too much time wearing kevlar and found it to be more uncomfortable than steel or leather. my last vest was a safariland zero-g that wasn't too bad and would be good protection if used with good arm and neck/head protection, maybe steel or plastic vambraces,rerebraces pauldrons along with a gorget and protective helmet such as a armet or burgonet. the vest could substitute for the breastplate/cuirass.

[Ben Zen]

And here comes a new sugestion!
How about fencing protection? Like the ones that are used for modern european fencing. Im talking about the vest, pants and gloves, not the headgear.
Pros
-Does not hinder movement at all
-Lightweight
-Durable (350N-800N)
-Relatively easy to get hands on
Cons
-Pants only go down to the knees
-Only gives protection against rimfire ammo
-Next to none protection against bruises

Areas not protected by fencing protection: legs from the knees downwards, head (from about half the throat upwards) and a 1x1cm hole on both gloves.
More info here (http://shop.fencing.net/category_s/100.htm)
These could be worn upon just underwear, instead of common clothes (depending on the weather). The material can also be painted to effectively function as camouflage. Neccessary stuff like gun holsters could be sewn upon the pants or the vest. Combined with combat boots these would have a very good effectivines when fighting the undead.

[UseYourHeadCutOffTheirs]

anything would be better than shorts and a tshirt with some flip flops if you ask me.

I like the fencing suit idea. Its not perfect but its got great advantages to it.

How much does one of those cost and where can I find one? Or should I just stick to my wet suit?


Eventually you could work your way up. Like in the game Diablo, your char always starts off crappy. Eventually you will get that godly armor everyones trading the high runes for.

[detpat]

we call those ghost suits, and they are just heavy cloth. bites also cause crush injuries. i would want better protection for myself.

[mattifikation]

It's not about avoiding the injury, it's about avoiding the infection.

Of course this is a half truth, you don't want to be injured either, but here's how I see it:

Crush wounds are very bad obviously, but they're survivable. Even gunshot wounds can be survived. Infection is 100%.

[bandits1]

It's not about avoiding the injury, it's about avoiding the infection.

Of course this is a half truth, you don't want to be injured either, but here's how I see it:

Crush wounds are very bad obviously, but they're survivable. Even gunshot wounds can be survived. Infection is 100%.
Agreed. Any material that allows full-range body movement is too soft to prevent crush-injuries. So unless you're planning to wear full-body medieval platemail, or like someone previously mentioned, some sort of Stormtrooper-like getup, you're better off going with light-weight abrasion/slash-resistant clothing and retain 100% mobility.

Personally, I'd go with readymade anti-riot gear rather than any kind of homemade leather or rawhide suit.

[Onslaught]

the problem that i see with a riot suit is that it is overkill.

they are made to take impact; zombies will not be causing impact injuries.

they are relatively bulky; in order to be truly effective they are designed to be used with a shield and helmet. they will get hot and provide unneccesary coverage at the cost of mobility and awareness.

they contain protections for the torso; if a zombie is biting your torso, you were already screwed. furthermore, there is a more effective torso protection that would be at least AS available as riot armor: bullet resitant vest. (oddly enough, they also happen to be bite resistant.)

the systems that i am looking at for reference have good and bad points.
the common themes are:

pros:
a few can accept ballistic plates
shin/knee protection
elbow/forearm/backhand protection

cons:
torso impact protection
overly large groin/hip impact protection
many are equipped with an additional kidney wrap/belt
all of the above items are thick foam, injection molded plastic, or both. this makes for a very hot getup.
none are MOLLE compatible or in any way function to carry any gear.

in truth, a denim jacket would work just fine for chest protection. the circumference of the human torso is such that if a humanoid jaw were to try to bite it through a denim jacket, the jacket would likely bunch in the mouth and the teeth would probably not find purchase in flesh.

as i stated in a previous post, any Load Bearing Vest will provide more than adequate torso protection. it will have the upside of also carrying a hydration system and just about anything else you can stuff into all of those pockets. even the cheap airsoft knockoffs should do the trick.

the easiest targets for a zombies mouth in a hand to hand situation WILL be the hands, forearms, feet, and lower legs. these will be the parts of your body that you will be intentionally putting into the zombies grasp.

let's say you've got a worst case scenario here. you come around a corner and the zombie is right there, too close to shoot. it grabs your collar and begins to pull you toward it's mouth.

what do you do?

you push against it's neck, shoulder, chest, forehead, etc. with your hands/forearms. and the zombie then tries to take a chunk out of it because the zombie doesn't have a goal in mind. it doesn't care what part of you it bites, it'll take a finger just as soon as it'll take an ear or neck or nose.

let's not forget that armor is DEFENSIVE. it is much like your melee weapon in that regard. you don't want to have to use it, and you don't want to be encumbered by it when it's not in use. but you want it to do it's job when you need it. there is no point in carrying a claymore if you aren't fighting mounted zombies, and ther is no point in wearing full riot gear if you aren't fighting tool using fast zombies.

on second thought, if you've got tool using fast zombies, just stay in the tank.


{wow, that was one long winded anti-riot-gear rant there. i need a nap now}

[VXTip556]

LEATHER FIGHT

i'd probably use kevlar fabric, and kevlar thread to sew a suit, in fact i plan on doing that in the near future once i get some money saved

[mattifikation]

Check out these for hand protection:
http://www.kentscientific.com/products/productView.asp?ProductId=6250

[13hollowpoints]

Dress in an amusement park animal costume. The zombies won't know what the hell to do with a giant chipmunk.

[bandits1]

the problem that i see with a riot suit is that it is overkill.

they are made to take impact; zombies will not be causing impact injuries.

they are relatively bulky; in order to be truly effective they are designed to be used with a shield and helmet. they will get hot and provide unneccesary coverage at the cost of mobility and awareness.

they contain protections for the torso; if a zombie is biting your torso, you were already screwed. furthermore, there is a more effective torso protection that would be at least AS available as riot armor: bullet resitant vest. (oddly enough, they also happen to be bite resistant.)...
The riot-gear was just an example of the maximum amount of protection I would ever wear. But if all this zombie-crap ever went down, I'd just stick to the lightweight protection I listed in my initial post:

- BladeRunner™ Covert Long Sleeved T-Shirt lined with woven aramid fiber(slash/abrasion-resistant)
http://img81.imageshack.us/img81/2716/long20sleeve5dm3.jpg

- TurtleSkin SnakeArmor pants

- BladeRunner™ Mk2 Kevlar gloves w/ knuckle protection

- lightweight slash/puncture/abrasion-resistant forearm sleeves
http://img137.imageshack.us/img137/4626/lag10009sprotectdb1.jpg

- knee/elbow pads(these wouldn't be neccessarily for zombie-protection - it's more to prevent myself from getting banged up from all the running around)

- leather tactical boots

- tactical vest w/neck-protection(no need to be bullet-proof unless the baddies suddenly remember how to use firearms)
http://img137.imageshack.us/img137/1326/2530shortlp7.gif

...like you mentioned, I'd be more worried about preventing infection than whether or not the bite would hurt.

[mattifikation]

http://www.thedocumentaryblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/02/0702_1.JPG

Is that Overkill? haha.

http://www.thedocumentaryblog.com/index.php/2007/02/07/update-troy-hurtubises-trojan-armour-suit-now-for-sale-on-ebay/

[Onslaught]

http://www.thedocumentaryblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/02/0702_1.JPG

Is that Overkill? haha.

http://www.thedocumentaryblog.com/index.php/2007/02/07/update-troy-hurtubises-trojan-armour-suit-now-for-sale-on-ebay/


maybe just a little.:lol:

[detpat]

It's not a matter of pain, crush injuries can amputate as well as cutting injuries. You need to remember the standard infections will kill you too. in a world of rotting bodies i don't think i want to walk around with open suppurating finger stumps.

You are gonna need some rigid plates in strategic places.

[JakAttak]

armor has no real use. It's heavy, hot, and loud. the only kind of armor that would be worth your time would be kevlar extremity covers and a Z bite could still crush flesh and break bones.

[Dave Of The Dead]

armor has no real use. It's heavy, hot, and loud. the only kind of armor that would be worth your time would be kevlar extremity covers and a Z bite could still crush flesh and break bones.

I really don't think they were talking about actual medieval full plate armor...:lol:


I have a pretty tight leather jacket and some thick leather pants, so I'm set. Lets just hope they don't come in the summer. :scare:

[JakAttak]

remember you will be kinda safe from infection but a bite could break bones and put you down

[Dave Of The Dead]

remember you will be kinda safe from infection but a bite could break bones and put you down

So could tripping on the sidewalk. The points is to protect yourself as much as possible, not to make you completely invincible. Especially without armor, if a zombie got close enough to bite you, you would be screwed in any situation.

[JakAttak]

yea but wouldn't thick leather screw with mobility and like you said it's hot doesn't breath I'd take cotton T and blue jeans any day

[Dave Of The Dead]

yea but wouldn't thick leather screw with mobility and like you said it's hot doesn't breath I'd take cotton T and blue jeans any day

Its leather. Dead animal skin. Of course it doesn't restrict mobility.
And its not like I would wear it all the time, just in situations that i would need some protection.

[JakAttak]

I could see it if you're raiding a building but other than that I would never use armor Id just keep comfortable and rely on my superior speed and agility

[masszombiekiller]

I would shave my head completely bald, wear a tight motorcycle leather jacket with leather pants and my hunting boots. And maybe a motorcycle helmet for when you splatter blood it doesnt get in your nose, eyes, or mouth.

[JakAttak]

just go with a ski mask a helmet is to hot and bulky

[Onslaught]

how does a ski mask keep liquid and bits of gore out of your eyes/mouth/nose?

are you talking about ski goggles?

if so, just wear a paintball mask. it's the same or better goggles with full face and ear protection.

[JakAttak]

by covering mouth and nose with cotton unless you bite on the cotton after a battle blood won't get into your mouth.

[bandits1]

by covering mouth and nose with cotton unless you bite on the cotton after a battle blood won't get into your mouth.
WTF? So you opt to wear a ski mask, as opposed to a full-face motorcycle helmet, because the helmet is too hot and bulky...then proceed to stuff you nose and mouth with cotton?! :doh:

I think I'd rather just wear the helmet.

[mattifikation]

A motorcycle helmet might be overkill, unless you're going into a high-zed environment for some reason. For ordinary situations you'd probably be fine with a paintball mask.

I still think leather pants, a leather jacket, and a paintball mask would be the way to go if you were just going to go on a quick scavenging mission and head back as soon as possible.

If I were going to travel some distance, I'd stick with something lighter though. Jeans and a T-shirt, unless it was wintertime, then I'd just go with the full blown leather get-up.

In the event that I knew I was going head-to-head with a large number of zombies, I'd probably opt for all-out riot gear if it were an option.

This thread really has me thinking that a cold climate like the Yukon territory might be the place to be. You could wear thick leather outfits all year long.

[Faran Brigo]

I think he's talking about a stripe of cotton, like a surgeon mask.

In any case, I think thick plastic armor is perfectly serviceable since it's light and it will prevent infection. Infection is not the only worry, yes zombies could fracture your bones, but a fracture or hemorrage given proper medical care will eventually get better. No amount of medical treatment (except perhaps amputation, and I wouldn't count on it) will prevent you from dying, then reanimating if you get infected.

That having been said, armor I believe is something you should only wear if you're expecting close quarters combat. I wouldn't wear it in rural areas, but I do believe it's essential for MOUT, since your mobility counts for crap if it's already restricted because of space limitations.

[mattifikation]

Too bad I can't make myself a nice Iron Man suit...

[detpat]

i think some of you have a very unrealistic view of what armor is and how it works. After all men wore it all day to fight in and did just fine. modern versions are even lighter and more flexible.

Armor is a special application item and of course you wouldn't wear it 24/7.

[JakAttak]

WTF? So you opt to wear a ski mask, as opposed to a full-face motorcycle helmet, because the helmet is too hot and bulky...then proceed to stuff you nose and mouth with cotton?! :doh:

I think I'd rather just wear the helmet.

you don't stuff your mouth and nose with cotton I was saying if you you bit down on it.:lol:

[Dave Of The Dead]

Ever seen a bad western movie where the bandits have bandannas around their faces? I know it will look stupid, but that's what I'm going to do if need be.

[JakAttak]

see this is what I'm talkin' about.

[Faran Brigo]

Isn't cloth fluid conductive?

[Dave Of The Dead]

Isn't cloth fluid conductive?

well yeah, but its not like you'll be chewing on it.

[Faran Brigo]

I still don't like the idea of wearing a rag soaked in undead bodily fluids.

[mattifikation]

Guythhs, I'm thuper therial. Thith iths what paintball mathkth are made forrrr

[JakAttak]

I still don't like the idea of wearing a rag soaked in undead bodily fluids.
It won't be soaked as we don't plan to rub our faces in a Z's corpse (I hope).

[mattifikation]

Over time, it would end up covered. If you used something made out of plastic, it could be wiped down periodically.

Plus, a bandanna offers no eye protection at all. Unless you plan on wearing it as a blindfold!

[JakAttak]

two things. change bandanna. sports goggles.

[mattifikation]

Why not just wear something that covers your whole face, and doesn't need constant replacing?

And just for experiment's sake, go get a bandanna. Squeeze one drop of water on it, just one drop. It soaks right through.

Now let me ask you this: Would you count on that bandanna, which lets water soak right through it, to protect you from the Ebola Virus?

I didn't think so.

[Dave Of The Dead]

And a paintball mask with all the slits in the front won't? Unless you're wearing one of those riot helmets with the plastic face cover, I think you're f*cked.

[Faran Brigo]

Well, you could duct tape the front holes or something. Of course, leaving other holes to breathe through.

[bandits1]

...or you could put the banadana over the face mask? Half-kidding.

How about a simple surgical mask and a clear-lensed Oakley M-Frame?

[Kolapsky]

In the Zombie Survival Guide Max Brooks says people that are a little :loon: might decide to wear Chainmail.

The zombies teeth couldn't penetrate the rings but your face isn't protected and can be bitten and scratched and all those goodies.

[Cenobite]

Maybe one of these.

http://www.by-the-sword.com/acatalog/images/md801d.jpg

and a chainmail coif. If I get my hands on.

If not, regular clothing.

Cant really scale a wall wearing one of those.

[IronJayBee]

Chainmail is the ideal protection for an outbreak but it is rather loud when running, it adds to the sound of you running away. Still it probably is your best bet.

[Rogers120]

I wonder if snake-proof chaps would stop a zombie bite . Well if i can't chew a hole in them, they shouldn't.:lol:

[bandits1]

If they can stop a snake's fangs from digging in, I'm sure they'll stop a human's.

I mentioned snake-proof pants/chaps earlier in this thead. I'd be confident wearing those and a good pair of tactical boots to protect my lower-half.

[mattifikation]

Alright, ten points to the first person to get kicked out of the mall for testing the clothing for its resistance to being bitten through.

[Mitchell Withrow]

Some tough Jeans, leather jacket, gloves and combat boots.
until
I find full plate metal armor

Let's be realistic here. Can you bite through a pair of jeans ? I doubt a slow decayed, Z-BO could.

[mattifikation]

im pretty sure i could bite through a pair of jeans enough to break the wearer's skin and transmit any viruses lingering in my saliva...

[Trumble0]

Get Prison Guard Corrections body armor, its light, yet durable enough to keep you from getting shanked, and Im assuming also bitten on that note at least in the chest/back area, they also have high rise neck guards on some models. as for lower half, I'd agree with Bandits1 and Rogers120 and opt for Snake-proof pants. and some kind of Tactical Boot, probably some kind of 10" boot with a steel shank for comfort when standing on zombie skulls :lol: as for the head... probably just a some kind of goggle to keep blood from getting in my eyes, and something to cover my mouth, gas mask scarf, ski-mask, etc... and some kind of Turtleskin Animal handling gloves that are bite and puncture resistant.

[bhk2000]

i dont know if this has been mentioned but i took a welding class a while ago and used this really tough leather jacket for protection. i figure if it can keep some red hot flux from burning through my shirt it can keep zombie teeth from my flesh. in addtion it isn't very hevy and doesnt keep you overheated. it would still hirt to be bitten with it on but the point is that you wouldnt get infected.

[Panther7]

definatly kevlar covers. i know they are not as protective as chainmail but i like to keep it light.

[foolmasterz]

something thats cheap and at hand....
leather gardening gloves. not a full outfit, but its easy to get and those things are tough. and hey, if you found brass knuckles, Bam.....you got nearly invincible hands...and warm too.

[Darkness]

"They wouldn't have to break through the jeans to break the skin, and pass the virus-infected saliva though the very absobant fabric."

[VideoJunkie]

(I'm currently gunless but that will change once the stimulus package goes into effect)

You want to use your govt issued stimulus check to buy a gun?!?! I swear, you are so my hero. I hope you realize that you just caused a few hundred liberals to stroke out. Using a check from the govt. to buy a gun. Damn! I don't think that's what Obama meant by "spread the wealth around", but I love it!

Back on topic. I love the ideal of chain mail as much as the next guy, but I'm afraid mine got lost at the cleaners after the last crusade. I know how to make the stuff(guy I used to know carried 2 pliers and a bunch of chain EVERYWHERE) but that's a LOT of work. In the end you're wearing a heavy suit of metal. No thanks! When the :poo: hits the fan I'm gonna be moving... FAST! I'd rather not have an extra 100 pounds strapped to me. I've got the steal toe boots, but otherwise I'm gonna be in cammies. Not to hide from zack, they're just comfortable and durable. I've also got a faceshield and goggles for close up work. Like clearing a building or tight alleyway. Just for splatter protection. I've heard, actually read about people suggesting paintball masks for that purpose. Won't work. Anyone who's played can tell you how bad the paint tastes. We've all had some splatter through our masks and into our mouths. Not what I want when it gets up close and personal with a zed! I'll also try out some of my work gloves. I'm just not sure how well I'll shoot with gloves on. Next time I'm at the range I'll try it out and edit this post with my decision.


Just had an idea. The ultimate in bite protection -SHARK SUIT!!!:evil:
Wouldn't that be the ultimate(I know, used that word already)... the apex of bite protection for going into infested buildings and other close up combat? Just let 'em keep chewing until his teeth are all ground down to nothing!

[Bob]

Don't forget to buy ammunition for those guns.
Remember the most liberal man in congress is running for presidunce.

[homelitexl]

i got an old ss trooper combat uniform from ww2 and steel toe boots found it at a yardsale and a ss trooper gas mask that covers yuor whole head and has the glass goggles built in and the helmet that what i would use no im not a nazi i just thought hey form and funtion

[Bad Zombie Night]

You want to use your govt issued stimulus check to buy a gun?!?! I swear, you are so my hero. I hope you realize that you just caused a few hundred liberals to stroke out. Using a check from the govt. to buy a gun. Damn! I don't think that's what Obama meant by "spread the wealth around", but I love it!

I know this is the silly season, but let's try to keep our political opinions to ourselves.

-The Management http://www.allthingszombie.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=1&pictureid=1

[craniumcrusher]

Re: Zombjitsu!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------It seems I put this post in the wrong place before

Well if I had the luxury of armor I could use it as a weapon itself. I would have a suit of riveted chainmail, not links that are just bent or even welded, but Minnie bolted. With a chain hood and if possible a chain facemask covering my nose and mouth, and a pair or those big goggles S.W.A.T teams and skiers are so fond of but I would replace the elastic band with a tight leather belt. If I can’t get the chain hood I would ware a full face motorcycle helmet that has a visor and possibly, drill a shallow on the center of the fore head of the helmet then fill the whole with liquid epoxy.
Then when dry drill a long, fat screw into the epoxy then snip the end off and cut it to a 4 sided spike with my trusty bolt cutters. You will need to have a steel file to smooth the sides of the screws and to keep your spikes sharp. You could use that for some serious no hands zombie slaying. A pair of plate armor gauntlets that have on the top of the hand in the same place as Wolverine’s middle claw. You could punch clean whole in a zombies fore head with that. Spiked elbow and knee pads as well. It might be possible to weld a spike on to a steel toe boot. All spikes should be about 3 ½’’.
I believe armor such as this could render melee weapons obsolete. A punch, elbow, knee, kick, and head butt are all now one hit wonders. There is no rebound time, by that I mean there is no brief period of time after you swung and how long it takes you to deliver another shot. I really don’t like to define martial arts by styles but if I had to you should become familiar with judo, jujitsu, karate, Taekwondo, and Aikido. Muay tie would be especially effective because all they focus on is punching kicking, Kneeing, and elbowing.
So what do you think?

[homelitexl]

well at least mine is durable.

[EvilWeasel35]

OK, so I like to be prepared (I was a girl scout lol!) I already have thick leather jerkin and forewarm cuffs, plus leather jacket, trousers and high boots. The whole ensemble looks great with a couple of swords strapped to your back! :) Best defense - smear yourself with zombie stink (if you can stomach it) :puke: and they probably won't even notice when you walk past them!

[Dave Of The Dead]

OK, so I like to be prepared (I was a girl scout lol!) I already have thick leather jerkin and forewarm cuffs, plus leather jacket, trousers and high boots. The whole ensemble looks great with a couple of swords strapped to your back! :) Best defense - smear yourself with zombie stink (if you can stomach it) :puke: and they probably won't even notice when you walk past them!

Not sure if that would work, but you can go ahead and try when the time comes.

[homelitexl]

yeah get bit at least mine is durable flexable cammo nearly, and it is functionable.

[voyager]

Has anyone considered the cut-proof skating suits made from kevlar or UHMWPE? It is tight fitting breathable and not sure about on warmth to be honest but it's something to consider? Pour crisco over your head and play "catch the greased pig" the zombies. :)

http://www.sebrasports.com/productdetails/3/Sebra%20Suit%20II%20Extreme/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ultra_high_molecular_weight_polyethylene#Skating

[Dave Of The Dead]

My friend has a black denim trench coat with 1" spikes on the shoulders and cuffs. He bought a chain mail inlay for it, too. I think its pretty bad ass, but I still prefer a pretty thick leather jacket to keep from weighing you down. My brother had a pretty good idea of getting a metal gauntlet with metal wrist plates extending up to your elbow. If the zombie were to get too close for comfort, maybe extend your arm and let him break his teeth rather than breaking your skin.

[Darkness]

"Lately, I have been considering getting a set of good, old-fashioned, full dress, motorcycle leathers. They do a good job of protecting the skin from roadrash bites, I think they could do a good job protecting the skin from zombie bites." :think:

[homelitexl]

thats how the trooper uniform works made from leather and high durable materials.

[Bob]

Someone should gather readily available components, assemble and sell Zombie proof combat suits.

[homelitexl]

how about a redneck iron man suit.

[Bob]

Homelite

What if you fell in a pond?

[homelitexl]

well it has styrofoam and an air tank that enough to float.

[Bob]

That would be ok as long as you don't float head down.

[homelitexl]

well you wouldnt and any way scuba gear would be built in.

[KrimsonKing]

Do any of you bright people know of any bite proof armor that floats? My plan involves a lot of time in rivers and the ocean. It must be lightweight and offer high mobility.

[Darkness]

Do any of you bright people know of any bite proof armor that floats? My plan involves a lot of time in rivers and the ocean. It must be lightweight and offer high mobility.

"You could try making PVC Plastic Armor lined with Wetsuit Fabric Foam." :think:

[Bob]

A flotation suit?
http://www.vespoli.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_8&products_id=277

[VideoJunkie]

I don't remember who said it earlier in this thread, but I have to agree that a shark suit would be about perfect for clearing houses! I'd also consider a shark suit if I was running the zed elimination traps. I love the idea of being virtually bite proof. Of course in a flight situation the extra weight and restriction would be a serious detriment, but in a fixed position where you had to deal with zeds or in close quarters combat? It's about perfect!

In more mobile situations I'd prefer my standard armor. A couple of tons of steel and plastic! Yep, I mean a truck! Seriously though, on foot in a mobile situation I'd have steel toe boots and leather gloves. Other than that I'd probably skip the armor. Speed and endurance would be more valuable in such a situation (IMO), but that would really depend on the type of zed and the current situation.

[Darkness]

"That's why I'm considering full motorcycle leathers. Good mobility, good bite protection; and comfortable, without being too heavy." :)

[VideoJunkie]

"That's why I'm considering full motorcycle leathers. Good mobility, good bite protection; and comfortable, without being too heavy." :)

Probably a LOT easier to find than a shark suit!:lol: Honestly I've never actually held that sort of leather. I've had leather jackets, but they were made as soft and pliable as possible. I assume MC leathers are more durable, but it's hard to judge well without first hand experience.

[Darkness]

"They're made of a thicker hide, and they have a padded lining; plus all you need is a bit of saddle soap and the outside is water proof. Good for keeping the goo out. I have two hanging in my closet." :)

[Lurker13]

Probably a LOT easier to find than a shark suit!:lol: Honestly I've never actually held that sort of leather. I've had leather jackets, but they were made as soft and pliable as possible. I assume MC leathers are more durable, but it's hard to judge well without first hand experience.

Well now your banned so youve got time to find a shark suit! LOL! Thatll teach you to win an argument! :loon:

[DarthJoe8]

Hey homes, don't they make leg armor for chainsaw guys? :think: What about the upper body?

If it stops a saw I imagine it'll stop a bite...:scare:

:guns:

[Dave Of The Dead]

I have gloves that they make for chainsaw operators. I really haven't tested them out and really don't want to. Snake bite-resistant pants would be just as good if your only talking about Zed protection.

[Bob]

Don't some butchers wear some sort of metal mesh protective garments?

[homelitexl]

Hey homes, don't they make leg armor for chainsaw guys? :think: What about the upper body?

If it stops a saw I imagine it'll stop a bite...:scare:

:guns:

Don't some butchers wear some sort of metal mesh protective garments?

actually yes and why didn't i think of that before. i got a couple extra piars of them. and i can get the butcher apron easy.

[Autumn]

Thick, soft, leather, with hardend leather over vital point (Forearms, sholders, raised collar, etc. . .).

But with the stuff I have. My leather jacket and normal cloths + my work boots.

You have a good idea there. I think I would follow your lead and dress the same.

[Bob]

Hows about some pictures of y'all all suited up?

[homelitexl]

my redneck iron man suit is still in blue print stages .:poo::puke:

[Bob]

I am still waiting to see some pictures of SOMEONE, ANYONE suited up.

[mattifikation]

I don't have a zombie suit. :-(

[Ash in Housewares]

I am still waiting to see some pictures of SOMEONE, ANYONE suited up.

will post a picture today, the gear will be something I have access all the time.

E: after denying my rights to stay as an anonyme, I present you, 16 year old guy dressed in his every day z-day gears of choice:

http://www.filecram.com/files/AIH Z-DAY.jpg

[Gummerfan]

I like the idea of the mask, so the zombies don't recognize you. :)
Now you need one of Gene Simmons's axe-head basses, so you can chop zeds and rock-n-roll!

[homelitexl]

i got my chest plate done took half a school desk and some scrap metal.

[Ash in Housewares]

I like the idea of the mask, so the zombies don't recognize you. :)
Now you need one of Gene Simmons's axe-head basses, so you can chop zeds and rock-n-roll!

well, the idea of the mask is to protect me from the blood splatters when I'm putting the undead into itsy bitsy pieces. also it's good with possible surveillance tapes when looting.

and the bass guitar is something I would grab from my room if zeds would attack.

I also have a machete with a wooden handle, but since I find blades pretty much useless (I hate the idea of getting infection by having some zombie blood inside me) because of the blood splatters.

also, it looks pretty damn cool.

[mattifikation]

Guitar thump's gonna break the skin too, and the blood splatter will spread out further from a blunt impact than a cut.

[Gummerfan]

Guitar thump's gonna break the skin too, and the blood splatter will spread out further from a blunt impact than a cut.
If you wanna get really bloody, you could use the strings to make a garrote. :scare:

[Bob]

I know!
We will use HomeliteXL's chainsaw to extract piano wire to make and sell garrotes.

[Ash in Housewares]

Guitar thump's gonna break the skin too, and the blood splatter will spread out further from a blunt impact than a cut.

that depends on what kind of zombies we're dealing with.

if the blood flows in the body, pretty much like with a normal person, that would be both true and false. imagine if a zed would get into your hideout, and you'd have access only to your blade. cut the head off, or destroy the brain, both ways make SO huge mess that cleaning it up would take several hours.

anyway, back to topic.

I chose those clothes because they are light, kind of bite proof (my bulldog can't bite through them) and flexible.

[Gummerfan]

I chose those clothes because they are light, kind of bite proof (my bulldog can't bite through them) and flexible.
I was thinking about something.
You want your clothing to be close-fitting, right? So the zeds won't have something to grab.
But, if you're weaing a pack, or MOLLE or webgear, holster, mag pouches, etc., that's a LOT of stuff hanging off you for zeds to get ahold of.
There shoud be some kind of secure, yet quick-release method of attaching stuff.
But explosive bolts wouldn't be a good idea.:)

[Ash in Housewares]

I was thinking about something.
You want your clothing to be close-fitting, right? So the zeds won't have something to grab.
But, if you're weaing a pack, or MOLLE or webgear, holster, mag pouches, etc., that's a LOT of stuff hanging off you for zeds to get ahold of.
There shoud be some kind of secure, yet quick-release method of attaching stuff.
But explosive bolts wouldn't be a good idea.:)

part of my gear right there are my army cargo pants. they have 2 pouches, I think that I could get three 9mm clips in every one of them.

[homelitexl]

my redneck iron man suits chest plate is done complete torso is now zed proof, and helmet is half way done.

[Ironzey]

Hows about some pictures of y'all all suited up?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v93/Ironzey/Whatalarm.jpg

Well here I am mostly suited up for a chemical attack from Saddam Husein. It's supposed to be good for Nuclear, Biological or Chemical attacks. In addition to the standard BDU/DCU there are pants, hooded jacket, rubber gloves with cotton liners, over boots and gas mask. In the pic I'm also wearing a flack jacket and web belt. All in all I'd feel pretty confident about wearing this to avoid exposure to zombie contagion. Between the outer layer and inner layer of the outer garments is some kind of charcoal stuff that is supposed to keep the germs and what not off you. On a side note the older style of the outer garment had charcoal dust in it that would get everywhere. They said that you could wear it for an extended amount of time the longest I wore mine was just shy of a week man did I stink when I finally took it off.

All in all I'd say the outer garments, minus the flack jacket and web belt, weighed about 10lbs, that doesn't sound like a lot but it certainly slows you down and cuts into your stamina the over boots make your feet feel a couple sizes bigger, this takes some time to get used to. The pants and jacket are pretty bulky it's not what I'd want to be wearing if I was running from a bunch of Zs.

My plan is not to engage unless I have to or I clearly have the upper hand. With that in mind I wouldn't get any special gear in the early stages, later on I'd go with the MOPP gear.

I have a set at home that I use when it's cold and I'm working in my garage or shoveling snow.

[mattifikation]

It's pretty clearly established that the zombie virus actually has to get inside you somehow. Bite, eye, mouth, etc.

I really don't think a full NBC outfit would be necessary.

[Ironzey]

It's pretty clearly established that the zombie virus actually has to get inside you somehow. Bite, eye, mouth, etc.

I really don't think a full NBC outfit would be necessary.

I think that depends on what you preferred fantasy is, right now I'm reading the Morningstar Strain series so that's what I've got on my brain at the time.

I find the idea of some sort of contagion a lot more realistic than "they just get back up again". After all, there has to be some reason behind it and I'm not one that believes in magic some scientific reason.

Secondly, a blood covered hero saving the day looks good in the movies and we all know how "realistic" they are.

Just my $.02

[Dave Of The Dead]

I was thinking about something.
You want your clothing to be close-fitting, right? So the zeds won't have something to grab.
But, if you're weaing a pack, or MOLLE or webgear, holster, mag pouches, etc., that's a LOT of stuff hanging off you for zeds to get ahold of.
There shoud be some kind of secure, yet quick-release method of attaching stuff.
But explosive bolts wouldn't be a good idea.:)

A lot of tactical gear like ammo pouches and stuff is Velcro so I wouldn't worry about it.

[Onslaught]

A lot of tactical gear like ammo pouches and stuff is Velcro so I wouldn't worry about it.

The only stuff that i've seen that uses hook and loop (velcro) as a method of actual attachment is the rip/snap stuff that most swat units use(d) (not sure how many are using molle mow).

Most of the stuff you can get at your basic surplus store is either ALICE, MOLLE, or dedicated LBE. All of wich could bring you down if grabbed onto.

That said, all of my gear is molle. For the modular flexibility it affords, I'll risk it.

[Gummerfan]

"That's why I'm considering full motorcycle leathers. Good mobility, good bite protection; and comfortable, without being too heavy." :)

"And I've seen you at the corners and the cafes, it seems
Red hair and black leather, my favorite color scheme."- Richard Thompson-
(that song's been stuck in my head all day!):loon:

[homelitexl]

dude get your brain out of the gutter the iron man suit is nearly complete.

[Gummerfan]

You really think dressing up like an iron is going to fool them?

[homelitexl]

dude that was dumb now im building a wrist mounted flame thrower, and using a 410 shotgun on the other. it is completely bite proof.

[Dave Of The Dead]

dude that was dumb now im building a wrist mounted flame thrower, and using a 410 shotgun on the other. it is completely bite proof.

You're going to blow a hand off or something. Or at least get all that 410 shot stuck in you.

[homelitexl]

right and you won't get eaten by a robot pimp zed, it's full proof the 410. os wrist mounted all i do is point and shoot, as for the flamethrower, built off an old cutting torch.

[mattifikation]

pics or you're lying.

[homelitexl]

i will asap i have to borrow a camera but it just looks like a pile of scrap metal until its assembled and as soon as i finish i will post i hope to have it done by january.

[Gummerfan]

"Iron man, Iron man
Does whatever an iron can..."
:lol::roll:

[Darkness]

"Iron man, Iron man
Does whatever an iron can..."
:lol::roll:

"I know you're just trying to make him smile, but it's not exactly on topic, dude." :naughty: :lol:

[homelitexl]

anybody else want one cost them 200$ and all the whiskey and beeer i can drink, and yes i thought gummer was funny.

[Dave Of The Dead]

I'm starting to rethink that a shield would not be too bad against zeds. Not something ridiculously heavy and thick, but something sturdy enough to knock back some undead while protecting a forearm from a bite. I would sharpen an edge on it or make weld some metal studs to it. Its not like its to protect you from gunfire or anything, but more for bites.

[tytanos14]

I would Put Mail Armor and under that i would have the strongest plastic i could find and melt it into a suit like batman lol

[Darkness]

I would Put Mail Armor and under that i would have the strongest plastic i could find and melt it into a suit like batman lol

"Have you ever worn real Mail Armor before? And I mean REAL Mail, not that costume stuff made out of tin."

[Ironzey]

I would Put Mail Armor and under that i would have the strongest plastic i could find and melt it into a suit like batman lol

That's not a bad idea. Instead of melting plastic you could just use PVC piping like they have at home depot. It may take some time but I could see a whole suit of armor made out of that stuff.

Summer project anyone?

[Krazymouse]

Just wear a parka and 2 long sleeve shirts and the zombies can't bite through

[Gummerfan]

I'm starting to rethink that a shield would not be too bad against zeds. Not something ridiculously heavy and thick, but something sturdy enough to knock back some undead while protecting a forearm from a bite. I would sharpen an edge on it or make weld some metal studs to it. Its not like its to protect you from gunfire or anything, but more for bites.
Hmmm, maybe like those transparent acrylic police riot shields? Not the big full-coverage ones, but the smaller type?
I saw some on ebay a while back.

[homelitexl]

while yall get eaten im going to laugh nothing can bite thorugh steel.

[Dave Of The Dead]

while yall get eaten im going to laugh nothing can bite thorugh steel.

Imagine the limited dexterity you will have. You won't be able to walk 20 ft without getting hot and tired. Sooner or later zeds will swarm around you and either claw off the suit piece by piece or entrap you in a giant mosh pit of undead until you starve to dead. You might want to think about a self destruct button to lessen the suffering.

[mattifikation]

A drunk 16 year old laying in the street in homemade rusty "iron man" armor flailing around a chainsaw and begging for help...

The zombies might kill each other trying to get to him.

[Ash in Housewares]

Hmmm, maybe like those transparent acrylic police riot shields? Not the big full-coverage ones, but the smaller type?
I saw some on ebay a while back.

they're about 70 dollars @ amazon.com (which I prefer over eBay)

[homelitexl]

Imagine the limited dexterity you will have. You won't be able to walk 20 ft without getting hot and tired. Sooner or later zeds will swarm around you and either claw off the suit piece by piece or entrap you in a giant mosh pit of undead until you starve to dead. You might want to think about a self destruct button to lessen the suffering.

A drunk 16 year old laying in the street in homemade rusty "iron man" armor flailing around a chainsaw and begging for help...

The zombies might kill each other trying to get to him.

i will ahve plenty of dexterity and you forgot the flamethrower mounted on the wrist. plus i am working on a cooling and heating system for it not that it needs it it isn't that hot inside.

[Gummerfan]

...plus i am working on a cooling and heating system for it not that it needs it it isn't that hot inside.
Good thinking!
That should up the weight considerably!

[homelitexl]

no it is from a refrigerated and heated cup holder so it is that heavy.

[Gummerfan]

Nice touch. You really DO want to keep your "cup" comfortable.
Myself, I'll stick with the leather and kevlar, maybe throw in some chainmaille.But I'd be okay without it.

[Bob]

A refrigerated "cup" with chainmail thrown in it?
OUCH!!!

[homelitexl]

dude it had enough power to keep the whole suit cool.

[Dave Of The Dead]

You need to make a you-tube video of your Iron-Man suit when you're done. It ought to be priceless.

[Onslaught]

i will ahve plenty of dexterity and you forgot the flamethrower mounted on the wrist. plus i am working on a cooling and heating system for it not that it needs it it isn't that hot inside.

It'll get plenty hot inside when the flaming zombies grab hold of you. Think about it, you'll be wading through a sea of the undead in your armor (assuming, I'm taking a big leap here, that it protects you from bites) and you decide that it's a good idea to light them on fire?? ????? ??????????????????

I'd personally leave the flamethrower out.

Also, just where are you planning to get the chemicals to jelly the gas?
are you aware that the typical, backpack-mounted military flamethrower is out of ammo in under 30 seconds of spray? What do you plan to use as a pressure source to propel the jellied gas?

Good luck.

My propsed kit:

torso will be protected by a MOLLE vest + padded molle belt with pouches for needed accessories. 1000 denier codura should keep the errant nip at bay.

Splint/ street hockey "greaves" for shins. Possibly thick leather puttees (old snake guards).

Splint vambraces/rebraces riveted to modern elbow pads.

The jury's still out on hand protection... It's a cross between the newer armored work gloves and full blown fingered gautlets, but i think the gauntlets would be noisy. Need to hit the drawingboard.

I plan on moving as quietly and quickly as possible (think Recon scout). Hopefully the protection won't be needed, but it'll be there for surprises.

[Darkness]

"Hey, Homelitexl! Did you remember to put a bathroom in that steel suit? How ya gonna peee?" :lol:

[Bob]

Oh snap!
Dude you better work something out.
A refrigerated cup, you will wind up with your junk encased in ice...

[homelitexl]

yes a funnel with a tube at the end winds it way out of the suit, plus a cutting torch like the one i am using for the flamethrower will last for hours on end, but will only be to get them offf me.

[Dave Of The Dead]

I would go for the chainsaw-protection gloves. Those padded gloved with little armored spots sprinkled through. The drawback with the gauntlets is there might be a bit too much metal around your fingers to pull any sort of trigger on a gun. I think i'm going to get some of those padded rugby helmets for head protection. Something that will resist bumps and bashes and will protect my ears from getting torn clean off.

[Onslaught]

I would go for the chainsaw-protection gloves. Those padded gloved with little armored spots sprinkled through. The drawback with the gauntlets is there might be a bit too much metal around your fingers to pull any sort of trigger on a gun. I think i'm going to get some of those padded rugby helmets for head protection. Something that will resist bumps and bashes and will protect my ears from getting torn clean off.

I'm thinking that asymetrical armor may be called for on the hands.

I like the idea of a heavily armored left hand that can be thrown up to take the initial punishment, paired with a more dextrous right hand for finer work like triggers and car doors and such.

I figure that armor will most likely be used in an emergency situation anyway. Any time the dead are that close you've either been surprised at close range, like opening a door to find one right on top of you, or you're insane.

I'm betting on the armor to give me that half second or so that i'll need to react with appropriate force. Here's a scenario: You're clearing out a house that you've ducked into as cover. You are unfamiliar with the layout and are proceeding cautiously. You open one of the bedroom doors and see nothing initially. You take two seps into the room when a zombie lunges at you from the adjoining bathroom that you didn't know about. You instinctvely throw your left arm up in front of you while reaching for your sidearm with your right. The zombie gnaws uselessly at the armored gauntlet while you place a subsonic 9mm round between it's eyes with your silenced sidearm.

I figure only the areas that are most likely to come into contact with the rotters will need any armor. And that armor will likely be fairly thin and light, just enough to fend off a bite or two.

[homelitexl]

well in my case i designed it so we could raid cities in tactical groups and all survi:lol:ve.

[Findecan]

I'd wear full-bodied medieval armor! At least then I won't get bitten. And I would wield something heavy like a sledgehammer for long range and a knife for short range. If I could get a suit with small enough fingers to pull a trigger that would be great too.

[mattifikation]

You would be in so much trouble. Raiders would have you for breakfast.

[Onslaught]

I'd wear full-bodied medieval armor! At least then I won't get bitten. And I would wield something heavy like a sledgehammer for long range and a knife for short range. If I could get a suit with small enough fingers to pull a trigger that would be great too.

Sledge huh?
How much would it weigh?
And (if you don't mind) how much do you weigh?

[homelitexl]

well mine at least is stronger.

[kiltedninja]

I'd likely wear something simple. My regular cold weather gear if it were cold, if not, then regular clothes, I'd get out of the city before the infestation got really bad, and I'd stay away from large cities as much as possible. Now for the purpose of city raids, I'd wear Carhartt pants, and one of their jackets, leather gloves (Which I'd likely have anyhow), and boots, something I always wear anyway.

[Nameless1]

I have a pair of forearm guards that I got at ren fair thinking of wearing those under a hoodie or coat. Was thinking that a neck guard would be useful as well, but haven't looked into them.

[kiltedninja]

Armguards could also be useful. And maybe a helmet.

[the_velociraptor]

Yeah, we know the obvious, goggles and all that. What's your best (as in, readily available until you find something better) defense against blood flying into your mouth and getting you zombified?

I think it'll have to be rags and my normal glasses for me. >_>

[Darkness]

Yeah, we know the obvious, goggles and all that. What's your best (as in, readily available until you find something better) defense against blood flying into your mouth and getting you zombified?

I think it'll have to be rags and my normal glasses for me. >_>

"I merged your post here, because that topic has already been discussed in length in this thread. Anything you can add would be most appreciated." :)

[Cbump the zombie slayer]

dragon skin body armor and hard plastic shells to that are flexible and combat boots

[Creeping Death]

dragon skin body armor and hard plastic shells to that are flexible and combat boots

Yes....but how flexible?
Can you be as mobile as if you weren't wearing it?
I wouldn't appreciate being slowed down. :-(

[Cbump the zombie slayer]

Yes....but how flexible?
Can you be as mobile as if you weren't wearing it?
I wouldn't appreciate being slowed down. :-(

Yea its is very flexible and very strong its like having body armor for a chest

[Creeping Death]

Yea its is very flexible and very strong its like having body armor for a chest

Can it resist shrappnel, and miniature explosions?
How about fire?
Does it ware out?