Kevlar Vest

Overview

In all classic game modes within the Counter-Strike series (except for Casual in Global Offensive), players begin without any armor or helmets. The Kevlar Vest, costing $650, can be purchased to reduce damage from bullets and grenades. The vest protects the chest, stomach, and arms, while the helmet, which cannot be bought separately, protects the head. Legs remain unprotected. Armor value is displayed on the HUD next to the player's health bar, with an icon indicating whether the player is wearing a helmet.

When a player takes damage, their armor value decreases by a percentage based on the damage absorbed. Once the armor value hits zero, it disappears, leaving the player vulnerable. A vest reduces damage and mitigates aimpunch from torso shots by 95%. Additionally, Kevlar can reduce environmental damage such as fire and toxic materials by 50% in some custom maps.

Armor Value and Protection

The exact armor value does not affect the damage reduction as long as it is above zero; any armor value will reduce damage. If the armor value drops to zero, the helmet (if worn) is discarded, exposing the player to full damage from headshots. Players can buy a vest with a helmet ("assault suit") for $1000, or add a helmet to existing armor for $350, provided the armor value is still at 100.

The helmet offers protection from most headshots, except those from sniper rifles, the Desert Eagle, the SG 553, and the AK-47. It significantly reduces aimpunch from headshots.

Rebuying Armor

Rebuying armor becomes relevant when the armor value is significantly depleted. For instance, the Glock inflicts 12 HP damage and 8 armor damage. A player can survive up to 8 hits before dying, making the useful armor value 64 (8 hits * 8 armor damage). In contrast, the P2000 deals 15 HP damage and 8 armor damage, allowing survival of up to 6 hits, with a useful armor value of 48.

When considering rebuying armor, it's crucial to evaluate the team's economy and the opposing team's weapon choices. In early rounds, when the opposing team might be using pistols and SMGs with poor armor penetration, it might be worthwhile to repurchase armor. In later rounds, against rifles with better penetration, the armor value might not drop below half unless surviving multiple rounds.

If a player previously purchased a helmet and Kevlar and sustains damage, they can repurchase both for $650 in the next round to replenish the armor, regardless of the damage location. However, it's generally advisable to only repurchase armor when its value is less than 50%, especially if the opposing team is likely to use weapons with higher armor penetration.