Curious as to what situation a civilian would be in to warrant wearing a vest?
Pick what ever floats your boat.
As I said earlier, I wear one at work when in the woods during hunting season, and Im glad I have it.
I also wear it at ranges and around people I dont know when I shoot. Just look around you at most ranges, especially public ranges, and tell me you wouldnt want one if one were available.
One does bedside duty as well. Its right there by the bed, under my pants, which is where my pistol always is, and both are instantly available if needed.
Im kind of amazed at the negativity associated with them, especially from people who say they carry a gun. The very same reasoning can be applied there. Like carrying a gun, its a personal choice, for whatever reason the person sees fit. If you dont want to wear one, thats fine, dont. Dont carry a gun either, youll probably never need it anyway.
Now, whats left to talk about? Knives and saps?