I would like to place the order for the tactical vests with OMB Express Police Supply. They quoted a FAV Protech Tactical Vest that is in the median price for the bids that were received. The following tactical vests were lower in price but had noticeable deficiencies when compared with the FAV Protech Tactical Vest. I have researched the other tactical vests that placed bid orders and the results are as follows:

• RBR Tactical Armor-bid: $16,017.00. The vest is not made as well. Have buckles in places that I believe should be Velcro and could be a weak point on the vest that is prone to catching on needed equipment. Vest material is stiffer and is cut to limit more mobility with the person wearing the vest.
• Survival Armor, Inc.-bid: $16,853.00. The vest is not made as well. The fit is more cumbersome for the user. Putting on the vest takes more time and might not fit as good as the fore mentioned vest.
• Southern Uniform and Equipment-bid: $18,525.00. They did not include what vest they were bidding on the bid. I researched and was not able to determine the vest that was bid.
• Garon Marketing GH Armor Systems-bid: $18,335.00. The vest doesn’t have as many options as the Protech Tactical Vest, in reference to molle system. Not as many routing openings for radio cables. Difficult for one user to put the vest on, might require assistance to properly put on the vest. Construction of the vest not as detailed as Protech.
• Mine Safety Appliances (MSA)-bid: $19,722.00. Not as secure fit as Protech. Fit not as good as Protech, and Protech offers more molle coverage for equipment.

There are seven other tactical vests that are higher in price than the FAV Protech Tactical. I believe after researching these vests and considering all of the safety concerns, user ability, and price, that the FAV Protech Tactical would be the most appropriate vest for the Lawrence Police Department.

• OMB Express Police Supply FAV Protech Tactical Vest-bid: $20,505.75.

Baysinger Police Supply submitted two bids: $21,242.00 and $24,186.05. They didn’t put on the bid what vests they were bidding. Unknown brand or supplier.

Alamar Uniforms submitted two bids: $21,755.00 for a First Choice Metro Pro Tactical Vest, and $25,703.20 for a Protech Titan Vest. Both vests meet specifications, have more extras.

OMB Express Police Supply submitted two bids: $20,505.75 for the FAV Tactical Vest, and $23,233.70 for the Titan Assault Tactical Vests. I believe the FAV is the best selection for a Tactical Vest. The Titan Assault meets the specifications and has more extras.