Armored Vehicles: 3 Steps to Find the Right One

What separates people who hope for safety from those who guarantee it? In a world where everything rapidly evolves, including personal security threats, market demand for armored cars among politicians, business owners, military personnel, and sports players has increased, with armored protection becoming essential for high-profile individuals. Over the last five years, the armored vehicle industry has grown by 2.8%, as more people recognize the value of armored protection.

Finding reliable armored vehicles for sale takes research and patience, whether for personal security or business use. The armored vehicle market offers various armored options, and Alpine Armoring provides comprehensive services and expertise, helping clients navigate the complex world of armored vehicles and make informed decisions when considering the purchase of a suitable armored vehicle. Below are the steps to follow to identify and buy the armored vehicle that best fits your needs.

Step 1: Consider Your Protection Needs

Understanding Protection Levels A4/B4 to A12/B7+

Different armored configurations provide different levels of protection for armored vehicles. Armored vehicles available on the market generally range between protection levels A4/B4 - A12/B7+. These levels are based on the thickness of the ballistic glass and the make of the ballistic steel applied to retrofit a vehicle into an armored vehicle. Each protection level corresponds to specific ballistic standards, with higher levels offering protection against more powerful weapons. Check our Weapons & Ammunition Chart for more detail.

Assessing Your Specific Risk Profile

The first task is to identify the purpose of your need for an armored car, whether it is an SUV or sedan, which will help determine the level of protection that best suits your needs. You need to assess your security needs and determine what weapons and rounds you expect to have protection against to choose the right armored vehicle. Understanding the specific threat environment is essential when selecting the appropriate armored solution.

Urban environments require different protection considerations compared to high-risk regions or conflict zones. For civilian use, lower protection levels may suffice, while executives operating in volatile areas require maximum ballistic protection. Alpine Armoring has a team of trained technical experts and experienced sales associates certified to assist you in identifying the right protection level and customizing the right armored SUV or sedan to meet your specifications.

Ballistic Standards and Testing Overview

Understanding armoring industry standards and armor levels in vehicles is crucial when selecting armored vehicles for civilians. Armored vehicle manufacturers must comply with international ballistic testing standards to ensure that their products meet specific armored protection requirements. These include NIJ (National Institute of Justice), CEN (European Committee for Standardization), and VPAM (Association of Automobile Manufacturers).

Step 2: Set a Budget

Understanding Armored Vehicle Pricing

After identifying the protection level required, you can set a budget in place. Due to the extra ballistic-rated materials added to the armored vehicle during the manufacturing of an armored car, it not only adds weight to the vehicle but also additional costs compared to regular vehicles. The price could easily double or triple compared to standard cars.

The price of the armored vehicle varies based on several factors – the base vehicle, desired protection level, and other components that armored vehicles require. Luxury vehicles with higher protection levels and extensive customizations can cost substantially more than basic armored configurations.

Financing and Ownership Cost Considerations

With financial considerations in mind, it's essential to finalize a budget before deciding on the type of armored vehicle and customizations one may have in mind. Armored vehicles also require consideration for maintenance costs, which can increase due to the custom armored components and increased vehicle weight.

Fuel consumption increases due to the added weight of ballistic materials, along with insurance costs. Additionally, registration requirements in the US may vary within each state, with some requiring special documentation for armored vehicles. Resale values for armored cars also differ from standard vehicles, often retaining value better due to their specialized nature, but requiring niche markets for armored vehicle resale.

Our sales consultants will help you find the optimal package and price range for the right armored SUVs or armored sedans for you, taking into account the total price of ownership.

Step 3: Find a Reliable Seller

Evaluating Armored Vehicle Dealers

You cannot just visit any car dealership and expect to find SWAT vehicles for sale. Armored vehicle specialists focus on armored solutions, so you should look into local armored vehicle dealers to determine which one is right for you. The seller you choose should have a wide variety of vehicles to choose from, offer the levels of protection you are looking for, and have references you can verify.

Specialized armored vehicle dealers understand the unique requirements of this market segment better than general dealerships and are equipped with technical knowledge to properly explain armor protection levels, customization options, and maintenance requirements specific to armored vehicles.

Test Drive and Inspection Process

Set up an appointment to test drive a similar or exact vehicle. Alpine Armoring maintains an inventory of ready-to-deliver new and nearly new armored SUVs and sedans that one can consider either to buy or for comparison to see which makes and models of vehicles they’d like to purchase and have armored.

These drives give potential buyers valuable insight into how the additional vehicle weight affects handling, acceleration, and braking, among other features, because armored vehicle performance differs greatly from standard vehicles. This hands-on evaluation is essential for understanding whether the vehicle meets all of your operational requirements and comfort expectations.

Manufacturer Reputation and Support

Finding the right seller will help you feel comfortable and confident in your purchase. You should always research the manufacturer's history in the industry and their track record, because a reputable manufacturer’s expertise will give clients confidence in their services, both in the initial purchase and in long-term ownership.

Another major factor to consider is the availability of armored parts and service network access, as armored vehicles will require specialized maintenance and potential armor repairs. A reputable company will maintain comprehensive support systems to ensure your armored vehicle remains protected and fully functional throughout its lifespan.

Quality manufacturers will also provide detailed documentation, including ballistic certificates, maintenance schedules, and warranty information. They should offer drivers and security personnel directions and training on the proper operation and maintenance of armored vehicles, ensuring the armored vehicle’s optimal performance and safety. For those considering other benefits of owning an armored vehicle, we have listed three reasons to consider purchasing an armored vehicle that cover more than basic security considerations.

Conclusion

Buying armored cars is typically not a quick process due to the importance of finding the right vehicle. The armor industry offers various protection options, so selecting the right armored vehicle requires careful consideration of armored features and armored protection levels. Follow these steps and make sure you contact Alpine Armoring. We will help you find an armored car you can rely on for the protection you need.