BARRIO – Demand for bulletproof kids’ gear is spiking following the devastating school shooting in Uvalde, Texas, manufacturers told Insider.

Four companies that manufacture bulletproof gear said they’ve already seen more customers searching for and purchasing bulletproof backpacks since a gunman opened fire at Robb Elementary School. Police have confirmed that at least 19 children and two adults are dead. 

Yasir Sheikh with Guard Dog Security, a company that manufactures and distributes various self-defense products like stun guns, alarms, and pepper sprays, said they’re “seeing an increase” in customers interested in bulletproof backpacks, which the company says can act as a shield in the event of a shooting.

Sheikh, Guard Dog’s president, said there’s also been “an increase from our national retailers who carry our bags.” Guard Dog sells backpacks to national retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Home Depot, and Lowe’s, he said.

A person standing in the line of fire can hold the backpack up to their head or chest to deflect the bullets, product illustrations on the website show. The backpacks come in different colors and patterns, and weigh less than four pounds, according to product descriptions.

And MC Armor Company, which makes “ballistic-proof personal protective gear and accessories” for both everyday civilians and prominent figures, has witnessed a spike in interest for bulletproof kids’ gear. 

Carolina Ballesteros, MC Armor’s marketing manager, told Insider customers from all over the country have been looking at and purchasing a bulletproof backpack insert.

MC Armor products for kids are “approved and designed with pediatricians,” Ballesteros said. 

Source: Insider