Issues with armor nobody mentioned... If you don't train and practice wearing it then you will be ineffective in the field. Steel armor has the risk of spalling, meaning if you take a hit fragments can mangle your body around the impact, also a possibility is ricochet, causing damage to you or others nearby. Therfore, ceramic is the way to go, if you are intent in getting armor. However, I would recommend that a solid medical kit, training, and a nij rated helmet would be a better use of resources.