A front break away ballistics vest (1) having a front (36) and a back section (11) that are securable to one another. The front section (36) has an upper front section (18) and a lower front (12) section. A first clip (38) is located on the upper front section (18) to release a first shoulder strap (4) from the first clip (38) and a second clip (39) is located on the upper front section (18) to release a second shoulder strap (5) from the second clip (39). The first and second clips (38 and 39) are secured to one another, preferably via a release strap (44). A third clip (40) is located on the lower front section (12) to release the first and second clips (38 and 39) from the third clip (40). The third clip (40) is also secured to the first and second clips (38 and 39), preferably via the release strap (44).