Choosing effective body armor is truly a life or death decision. With leaps in weapons lethality, having proper protection is more critical than ever. This guide explores cutting-edge armor systems to defend against bullets, shrapnel and other threats in high-risk situations. We’ll cover everything from concealed soft armor vests to hard rifle-rated plates so you can find the best match for your personal security needs and budget.

 

How We Tested the Body Armor

 

Our recommendations for body armor are grounded in Pro-Armory’s team's expertise, developed through years of experience in military service, competitive shooting, and working in gun shops. This foundation, combined with in-depth research from reliable sources, ensures our evaluations are accurate and relevant.

 

To provide reliable recommendations, we carefully analyzed data from trusted manufacturers and industry reports. These sources detail the performance of various armor systems under real-world conditions, helping us identify the most protective, durable, and user-friendly options available.

 

We also factored in user feedback from professionals who rely on body armor daily, ensuring that our selections meet the high standards demanded in tactical, law enforcement, and self-defense scenarios. This thorough approach guarantees that the armor we recommend provides the protection and reliability you can trust.

Why You Need Body Armor 

 

While no personal armor is truly “bulletproof,” modern body armor can certainly mean the difference between life or death in a violent encounter. Still, it's important to understand the limits — armor is bullet-resistant, substantially increasing the odds of survival and reducing injury severity by absorbing and diverting kinetic energy. But blunt trauma from even stopped rounds can still break ribs or cause internal bleeding. Proper armor improves your probability but doesn't confer invincibility.

 

Besides obvious combat and law enforcement uses, reasons civilians may consider acquiring body armor include:

 

SHTF Scenarios: If civil order severely breaks down due to unrest, economic collapse, pandemics or natural disasters, body armor would provide crucial protection from armed violence.

 

Home Defense: Keeping armor readily available offers peace of mind and readiness to protect family members during home invasions or property crimes. But realistically, there may be insufficient time to fully gear up in response to a surprise break-in.

 

Range Use: Wearing armor protects against injury from accidental discharges and stray rounds at shooting facilities.

 

Competitions: Events like 3-Gun matches involve moving with firearms quickly. Armor provides an added layer of safety while guarding against potential mishaps.

 

Now that we've outlined the practical reasons for owning body armor, let's examine the two main types.

 

Types of Body Armor

Soft Armor vs. Hard Armor

 

Soft armor utilizes multiple layers of an extremely strong, ballistic-rated woven fabric that "catches" bullets and disperses their kinetic energy over a larger area rather than concentrating it at a single point. Materials like Kevlar and proprietary polymers create impenetrable barriers.

 

Hard armor incorporates rigid plates constructed of metals, ceramics or hardened plastics that physically stop projectiles through sheer density and hardness. Steel, ceramic and polyethylene plates prevent the passage straight through brute resistance.

 

Soft armor is flexible, comfortable and readily concealable under or within clothing. It protects against most handgun rounds and slashes from edged weapons. However, soft armor cannot stop high-velocity rifle bullets.

 

Hard armor plates are bulky and rigid but they defend against assaults from even high-powered rifles. Plates are worn externally in dedicated armored vests and plate carriers for tactical purposes and can be inserted into backpacks and briefcases.

 

For concealed carry and defense against pistol caliber threats, soft armor is ideal. But for protection from rifles, hard armor plates are necessary. A robust system melds both soft and hard protections for comprehensive coverage across threat levels.

 

Body Armor Threat Levels

 

When picking body armor, it's vital to grasp the different threat levels. The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) is an independent government group that sets strict testing rules to guarantee armor plates and vests adequately stop specific bullets. This ensures each piece of armor performs as certified—no more, no less. Checking for proper NIJ compliance tells you the vest protects against stated threats.

 

Popular Armor Levels Explained

 

Level II Vests - Level II armor halts moderate pistol fire, including 9mm, .40 S&W and up to .357 Magnum rounds. Affordable and easy to conceal, Level II suits many situations where you need to move fast.

 

Level IIIA - Level IIIA armor protects against calibers that level II stops, and handgun rounds up to .357 Sig and .44 Mag. This level is particularly effective for personnel who need both protection and discretion for undercover work.

 

Level III Plates -Level 3 body armor is a ballistic plate armor designed to protect against a variety of rifle rounds. This armor halts 7.62mm rifle fire from AK-47s, AR-10s, and more. It also stops smaller 5.56mm and 7.62x39mm assault rifle rounds. Worn by law enforcement officers and military personnel, these plates support active movement with robust protection.

 

Level IV Plates - One of the highest levels of protection available, level 4 body armor is designed to stop some of the most powerful rounds from rifles and other high-powered firearms, including .30-06, 7.62x39mm, 7.62x51mm NATO, and 5.56x45mm rounds both M193 and M855. Although these plates offer the highest level of protection, their bulk and weight can limit mobility. They provide defense against the toughest threats but are designed to prioritize specific high-velocity impacts rather than a broader range of calibers.

 

Special Threat Ratings

 

Beyond base NIJ levels, some armor earns "Special Threat" ratings by proving it halts other specific projectiles beyond its rating. For example, some Level III plates may also stop certain armor-piercing or steel core ammo. While not formal NIJ ratings, these bonus designations indicate added defense against unusual ammunition.

What is Body Armor Made Of?

Common Materials Used

Kevlar

 

Kevlar belongs to a family of synthetic fibers called aramids. Developed by DuPont in 1965, Kevlar's long chain-like molecules form extremely strong bonds, creating a fabric five times stronger than steel on an equal weight basis. Yet, Kevlar remains flexible, allowing it to disperse the energy of bullets without shattering.

 

Soft Kevlar armor works by catching the bullet within layers of woven Kevlar fabric. The fibers absorb and spread the bullet's kinetic energy over a wide area to prevent focused penetration. This "ballistic catching" process deforms the bullet while stopping it before it can fully puncture the vest.

 

Kevlar's heat resistance, strength and light weight have made it the go-to material for flexible soft armor. From vests to helmets, Kevlar protects against handgun rounds and fragmentation threats. However it fails against high-powered rifle fire, requiring hard armor plates to defeat this level of threat.

 

Steel Plates

 

Steel armor plates work not by catching projectiles but through sheer hardness and density. Ultra-hardened steels like AR500 stop lead bullets by deforming them upon impact while remaining essentially undamaged. To penetrate such steel, bullets require vastly higher energy levels.

 

With hardness ratings up to 563 on the Brinell scale, AR500 demonstrates tremendous resistance to penetration. Used in applications from targets to earth mover blades, AR500 steel stops most pistol and intermediate rifle rounds. Quality steel plates can defeat threats like the AK-47's 7.62x39 round.

 

Yet, rifle bullets with tungsten or steel penetrator cores remain a challenge for monolithic steel armor. These dense cores concentrate enormous energy in a narrow point, allowing them to punch through steel plates. To counteract this, specialty ceramic/steel hybrid designs are required.

 

The main drawback of steel body armor is its sheer weight, with plates adding 8 pounds or more. But for economical protection from common rifle rounds, quality steel gets the job done while withstanding sustained abuse.

 

Ceramic Plates  

 

Ceramics take body armor technology to the next level, defeating high-powered rifle fire few other materials can withstand. Made of substances like silicon carbide or boron carbide, ceramic plates work by fracturing upon bullet impact. This property may seem counterintuitive but as the ceramic shatters, it absorbs and dissipates the bullet's kinetic energy.

 

The brittle nature of ceramic armor is beneficial, as the plate fractures to diffuse inbound threat energy. The ceramic essentially robs the bullet of momentum as it breaks into fragments. Well-designed ceramic armor is engineered to maximize fracturing surface area, allowing multiple bullet impacts in different locations on a single plate.

 

With the ability to defeat high-velocity armor-piercing rounds, ceramic rifle plates offer unmatched protection. Yet, their brittle quality also makes them prone to damage from drops, extreme weather or overly tight carriers. Careful handling and maintenance are essential to keep these life-saving shields ready for action.

 

Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE)

 

Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene belongs to a special class of plastic materials that exhibit outstanding toughness for their low weight. Branded varieties such as Dyneema and Spectra utilize an ultra-high pressure manufacturing process aligning the polyethylene molecules in tightly packed formations.

 

The resulting UHMWPE sheets demonstrate hardness similar to aluminum yet at just a third of the weight. Their low friction surface enables armor plates made of these materials to deflect bullet threats using minimal thickness. Combining UHMWPE with other substances creates hybrid armor that maximizes ballistic protection relative to bulk.

 

Materials like Dyneema perform admirably against intermediate rifle rounds like 5.56mm M193 and 7.62mm AK. Yet, UHMWPE plates tend to fail when facing high-velocity steel core rounds or multiple hits in a confined zone. Still, their light weight makes them an attractive option when extreme mobility is critical.

 

Hybrid Armor

 

Rather than relying on any single material, the most effective modern body armor systems combine multiple substances with complementary qualities. Hybrid plates construct a layered architecture with each element contributing unique strengths.

 

A common configuration utilizes a ceramic strike face to initially fracture incoming bullets, followed by a shear thickening fluid buffer to slow projectile remnants. This is backed by rigid fiber layers like Dyneema to halt penetration attempts. Finally, a polymer or metallic backing reinforces the rear of the plate.

 

Some hybrid armors feature auxiliary enhancements like nanofluids or graphene coatings to further bolster ballistic protection and structural integrity. By drawing on the assets of various materials, hybrid body armor achieves synergistic outcomes optimizing defense, mobility and durability.

 

The result is next-generation equipment able to stop multiple armor-piercing rounds without failing. So while monolithic steel plates remain popular for their low cost, it is hybrid designs that define the future of life-preserving armor technology.

 

Coatings and Technologies  

 

A variety of supplemental treatments and technologies further refine armor effectiveness. Anti-spall coatings such as Line-X Polyurea help contain bullet fragments and shrapnel from impacts, protecting the wearer from secondary debris injuries.

 

Fabric covers and plate carrier linings utilize moisture-wicking and antimicrobial finishes to resist bacteria and improve comfort during prolonged use. Foam padding cushions plates for ergonomic fit while aiding blunt trauma absorption.

 

Cutting-edge materials like graphene sheets stacked atop armor plates strengthen protection and heat resistance while minimizing added bulk. Embedded nanomaterials and nanofluids similarly bolster ballistic defenses through strength and fracturing enhancements.

 

With body armor research accelerating, expect rapid improvements in weight, mobility, multi-hit capacity and protection levels as nanotech and meta-materials remake what is possible. But even now, current technologies pair with inspired designs to create armor able to meet the most potent modern threats.

 

Top 13 Body Armor Picks

 

We've analyzed and selected the very best body armor solutions currently available. Let's examine these exceptional protective systems in detail across threat levels, costs and intended uses:

 

1. Safe Life Multi-Threat Level IIIA Vest

Pros:

 

• Super concealable

• Good coverage on torso and sides  

• Strike and slash resistant

 

Cons:

 

• Expensive

 

The Safe Life Multi-Threat Vest in Level 3A gives you lots of coverage on your torso and sides with advanced materials that make it strikes and slash-resistant. It's ideal if you want lightweight yet effective armor that's easy to conceal.

 

This flexible vest is designed for concealability and versatility. It protects against handgun threats and provides extensive coverage of your vitals. The multi-layered fabric system enhances comfort and mobility.

 

Features like the strike and slash-proof construction make this vest suitable for many protective scenarios beyond just ballistic threats. And Safe Life offers a 5-year warranty plus an incident guarantee for peace of mind.

 

2. Safe Life Defense FRAS   

Pros:  

 

• Soft and flexible

• Good torso coverage

 

Cons:

 

• Thick  

• Heavy

 

Safe Life's Flexible Rifle Armor System (FRAS) represents the next level of protection by stopping rifle rounds, unlike the previous soft armor. Despite its thicker and heavier design, the FRAS remains flexible, which is vital for dynamic tactical situations.

 

Compared to smaller hard plates, the FRAS covers far more of your upper body, front, back and sides. Yet it's designed for prolonged use thanks to comfort features. This makes it ideal for demanding protective roles in law enforcement and private security.

 

3. AR500 Level III+ Lightweight Steel Body Armor

Pros:

 

• Thin  

• Lightweight

 

Cons: 

 

• Not NIJ rated

 

AR500's Level III+ Lightweight Steel Body Armor lives up to its name, delivering rifle-caliber defense in a slim and minimalist package. Constructed from durable AR500 steel, this armor stops rounds like 7.62mm and 5.56mm that could penetrate lesser armor.

 

Despite using steel, this plate shaves weight down to just 8.5 pounds per plate. It's also remarkably thin at just 0.7 inches, enhancing comfort. While not NIJ certified, this plate has undergone substantial independent testing to validate its protection.

 

This lightweight steel armor is great for civilians and professionals seeking reliable rifle defense without excess bulk. The slim design works well for extended wear and mobile operation.

 

4. Spartan Armor Level III+  

Pros:

 

• NIJ Certified  

• Induces movement with design

 

Cons:

 

• Heavy

 

Spartan Armor's single-curve Level III+ plate offers robust protection you can trust, thanks to its NIJ certification. While stopping advanced threats like the M855 5.56mm, it retains mobility via an innovative design with cuts that don't hinder movement.

 

These single plates weigh as little as 4 pounds yet stop rifle fire. The 10” x 12” shooters cut plate maximizes coverage while enabling natural movement. Whether worn standalone or side-by-side, this Spartan Armor plate shields your vitals from harm while letting you remain active.

 

Suitable for law enforcement, private security teams and concerned civilians, this plate offers versatile protection across contexts. Facing unpredictable dangers, the Spartan Level III+ plate lets you take on threats without the armor weighing you down.

 

5. Spartan Armor Elaphros Level III UHMWPE

Pros:

 

• Rifle-rated   

• Lightweight

 

Cons:

 

• Doesn’t stand up to M855 Green Tip  

 

The Elaphros armor system from Spartan Armor is all about keeping weight down without sacrificing protection. Using an advanced UHMWPE plastic-based material, the Elaphros stops intermediate rifle rounds while weighing just 3.4 pounds per plate!

 

These 9.5” x 12.5” shooters cut plates are rated to stop 7.62mm FMJ rounds. And according to our analysis we confirm they can also defeat 5.56mm M193 and .223 Remington. However the M855 Green Tip 5.56mm round penetrated this Level III armor. Yet they represent the lightest rifle-capable plates available. 

 

If you desire low weight more than maximum protection and don't anticipate M855 threats, the Elaphros plates are unbeatable. Paired with a minimalist carrier, you’ll barely feel the burden of rifle defense.

 

6. AR500 Level IV Ceramic Body Armor

Pros: 

 

• Stops armor-piercing threats

• 10-year shelf life

 

Cons:

 

• Pricey  

• Heavy

 

AR500’s Level IV Ceramic/PE armor plate provides best-in-class defenses against high powered rifle fire. Defeating armor piercing 30-06 M2AP as well as 5.56mm and 7.62mm, these Level IV plates ensure comprehensive protection.

 

Each plate weighs 7.4 pounds and stops multiple armor piercing hits in a 10” x 12” shooters cut. With a full 10 year shelf life, AR500’s ceramic armor delivers reliable, long lasting defense to meet extreme threats.

 

While heavy and expensive, these plates offer necessary protection for combat deployments and SWAT raids where adversaries wield advanced weapons. Capable of thwarting sophisticated threats, AR500’s Level IV ceramic armor is worth the investment for high risk missions. 

7. RTS Tactical Ceramic Level IV

Pros:

 

• Affordable  

• Level IV protection  

 

Cons:

 

• Thick and heavy

 

RTS Tactical makes Level IV ceramic plate armor attainable for budget-minded buyers. While affordable, these plates still stop high powered ammunition, earning an official Level IV rating. However their low cost comes at the expense of bulk.  

 

These ceramic plates are over an inch thick, substantially heavier at 6.3 lbs per 10” x 12” plate. Their bulk affects mobility and comfort compared to thinner and lighter plates. Yet for the price, they deliver life-saving protection from rifles and armor piercing rounds.

 

If you seek maximum armor capability on a budget, RTS Tactical ceramic plates get the job done. Just be mindful of their heft when considering all-day wear. Paired with a properly fitted carrier, these thick plates offer ample defense without breaking the bank.

 

8. Velocity Systems Special Threat Ceramic Plates  

 

Pros:

 

• Trusted by law enforcement and military personnel

• Multi-strike rated 

• Hugs your body contours  

 

Cons:

 

• Pretty heavy

• Hard to get ahold of

 

Velocity System’s Special Threat plates feature cutting-edge materials trusted by troops across branches of the U.S. armed forces. Rigorously tested to stop multiple hits by high powered rounds without failing, these plates exceed NIJ standards.

 

Available in 10” x 12” shooters cuts, Velocity plates utilize a triple-curve design that conforms tightly to the human form for stability and protection. Although thick and heavy at 0.6” and 6 pounds per plate, their snug fit minimizes impact on mobility.

 

As Velocity limits direct sales to civilians, these exceptional plates are most accessible via third party sellers. For those able to obtain them, Velocity offers some of the best protection possible against advanced ballistic threats.

 

9. RMA Level IV Multi-Curve 

Pros:

 

• Affordable  

• Minimal rear deformation in testing  

 

Cons: 

 

• Heavy and thick

 

RMA Armament produces an affordable Level IV plate using expert engineering and manufacturing. Despite its reasonable price, testing confirms RMA’s multi-curve armor defeats high powered ammunition, living up to its rating.

 

Utilizing a distinct design avoiding rear deformation, RMA Level IV plates stop multiple hits of 7.62mm before failing. The angled multi-curve shape hugs the user tightly for stability while resisting backface blunt trauma.  

 

On the downside, these rugged plates are fairly thick and heavy, at 1 inch and over 8 pounds each. Yet they outperform many plates costing far more. For an economical Level IV solution able to defeat armor piercing rounds, choose RMA Armament. 

 

10. Mira Tactical Level IV   

Pros:

 

• Decent weight and thickness  

• Tested to NIJ standards of Level IV protection   

 

Cons:

 

• Expensive

 

Mira Safety produces adaptable protective systems like gas masks and body armor for military and law enforcement. Mira Tactical Level IV plates utilize top-tier materials to meet NIJ standards while optimizing weight.  

 

At just 0.9 inches thick and 5.9 pounds per 10” x 12” plate, Mira’s Level IV armor provides a balance of mobility and protection. Tested to defeat multiple armor piercing rounds before failure, these plates offer comprehensive defense.

 

Mira plates utilize layered hybrid elements like ceramic strike faces to enable multi-hit capacity. They carry a 10-year warranty backing their durability. For premium protective ability combined with agility, Mira Tactical Level IV plates deliver.

 

11. Safariland Matrix Ballistic Panel

Pros:

 

• Thin and lightweight 

• Concealable

• Ergonomic design

 

Cons: 

 

• Does not protect against rifle rounds

 

The Safariland Matrix packs handgun-stopping power into an undercover vest. Designed for covert operations, it slips under clothes with ease. 

 

The Matrix delivers Level II protection to halt most pistol rounds and knife attacks. Although unseen, you'll stay shielded from common street threats.

 

As a lightweight panel, the Matrix contours to your frame for comfort. Yet it lacks defenses against high-powered rifle fire. Thus, it suits undercover agents facing handgun dangers rather than tactical teams contending with heavy firepower.

 

12. Safariland SX Ballistic Panel

Pros:

 

• Ultra thin and lightweight  

• Comfortable

 

Cons:

 

• Considerably expensive

 

The SX Ballistic Panel is a cutting-edge armor solution, delivering robust protection through advanced materials. Weighing mere ounces, it packs a punch against handguns and knives.

 

Rated for Level II threats, the SX stops a variety of pistol rounds with ease. Its ultra-slim profile aids concealment for covert operations where discretion matters. Despite its leanness, the SX offers stab resistance too.

 

As a next-generation panel made for professionals, the SX commands a steep price. Yet its high-tech build pays dividends for undercover work, boosting safety considerably. 

13. US Armor Enforcer 6000

Pros: 

 

• Super comfortable  

• Helps keep you cool

 

Cons:

 

• Expensive

• Takes a bit of work to get on

 

Where comfort meets protection, you'll find the US Armor Enforcer 6000. Custom-fitted to each officer, it delivers defense and breathability across long shifts.

 

The Enforcer comes in Level II and IIIA models to match your needs. While stopping pistols and knives, it uses moisture-wicking fabrics to prevent overheating. This combination of safety and cooling keeps concentration sharp when threats loom.

 

A bespoke ballistic panel does demand time and money to tailor correctly. But in return, the Enforcer 6000 grants personalized protection suited to your build a lifesaving investment.

 

Best Plate Carriers & Trauma Pads  

 

Quality plate carriers properly secure armor for mobility while dispersing weight evenly across your torso. Shock-absorbing trauma pads then mitigate back face damage from bullet impacts.

 

The adjustable AR500 Testudo Gen 2 adeptly tailors to varying frames with customizable straps and bands. Its open mesh design circulates air to limit sweat buildup when tensions escalate. Ruggedly constructed, the Testudo also handles heavy rifle plates with ease.

 

Alternatively, the featherlight Crye Precision AirLite SPC presents an ultra-lean option at just 1.2 pounds. Despite a sparse design, it still holds two plates for full frontal coverage. While minimizing weight, it brings life-saving protection on rapid deployments.

 

For undercover assignments, the durable Safariland M2 Covert Carrier discreetly hides plates under attire. Its rugged 500 Denier shell withstands daily abuse while avoiding detection. Its hook-and-loop front flaps enable swift access for immediate response as well. As an added bonus, the full-coverage M2 stays machine washable for easy cleaning.

 

The AR500 Trauma Pad inserts behind armor to pad impact shockwaves. Although not stopping projectiles itself, it mitigates injury risks by absorbing the force from back face blows.

Other Body Armor Gear

 

Supplementary accessories amplify armor effectiveness across diverse situations. For example, a tactical vest insert like the 221B Maxx-Dri 5.0 positions plates outward to permit airflow. This ventilation reduces heat buildup in hot environments, preventing exhaustion from dulling reaction times.

 

Portable ballistic shields provide another adaptable option for fluid operations. Weighing under 20 pounds, the RTS Tactical Level III+ Special Threats Shield brings rifle-rated security on the move. Its adjustable arm strap simplifies use while an angled sight window maintains visibility. With its Level III+ potency, you can approach threats with confidence.

 

For home defense, RTS Tactical’s unusual Sentinel Shield offers a two-in-one design - a bulletproof memory foam pillow. Rated to stop 9mm and .45 ACP rounds, it resides on the bedside table until action calls. Thanks to an integrated handle and retention strap, you can wield this cushion as emergency cover when danger encroaches.

 

Body Armor Laws in the U.S.

 

Despite widespread misconceptions, most civilians can legally own body armor nationwide. Felons lose this right but other citizens meet no possession restrictions under federal statutes. However certain states impose stringent sales rules to impede access. Thus, research regional norms thoroughly before procuring equipment.

 

For instance, Connecticut enforces in-person, face-to-face body armor sales rather than online orders. While not preventing ownership itself, such red tape hampers access by increasing bureaucracy. Yet across much of America, acquiring body armor remains broadly permitted for law-abiding people.

 

How to Fit Body Armor 

 

A proper fit maximizes comfort and protection alike. Follow these tips for ideal coverage and ergonomics:

 

Firstly, ensure the width covers vital organs like your heart and lungs. Yet plates should not overhang the torso excessively. Proper height places the top edge at your sternal notch—the hollow below your throat.

 

Consider plate shape too when ordering armor. Rectangular plates allow minimal movement but offer maximum coverage. At the other extreme, swimmer cuts enable free articulation at the cost of protection breadth. There are also SAPI and shooters cuts balancing mobility and security.

 

Match plate curvature to your natural physique as well. Since your ribcage arcs outward, curved plates hug this contour better than flat versions. Review sizing guides carefully across brands to choose a snug yet flexible safeguard.

 

With measurements set and preferred cut selected, you can wear armor reliably across long periods. As a last tip, test mobility before finalizing any purchase. Ensure you can still twist, bend down and draw a weapon unimpeded. Your life may one day depend on it.

 

Conclusion  

 

With current ballistic threats more dangerous than ever, selecting quality body armor could save your life. We’ve analyzed cutting-edge protective solutions to help you choose confidence-inspiring gear tailored to your specific risks and needs.

 

Whether you face pistol caliber or rifle threats, concealable soft armor or hard plate systems, the options covered here leverage innovative materials and designs to offer reliable personal protection. Pairing these exceptional armor plates and panels with functional accessories and properly fitted tactical vests produces a formidable defense able to meet modern dangers.

 

FAQs

 

1. What are the NIJ body armor ratings and what threats do they stop?

 

The NIJ (National Institute of Justice) sets standardized ratings for body armor. Key levels include Level II (most handguns), Level IIIA (high-power pistols), Level III (rifles like 5.56mm) and Level IV (armor piercing rifle rounds). Higher levels stop increasing threats but add weight.

 

2. Is body armor legal for civilians to own? 

 

In most of the U.S., law-abiding citizens over 18 can legally purchase and wear body armor for personal protection. Some states prohibit possession by convicted felons. Know your local laws but wearing armor is broadly legal.  

 

3. Does body armor make you bulletproof?

 

No armor is actually bulletproof. Body armor is bullet-resistant, protecting by absorbing and dispersing energy. It improves survival odds immensely but still allows potential injury or death from high velocity rounds.

 

4. How do you know what size body armor to get? 

 

Consult specific sizing guides based on your body shape. Armor should fit snugly with plates wide enough to cover vital organs. Measure your chest at the armpit level to determine ideal width. Proper fit maximizes protection.

 

5. What is the best affordable body armor?

 

The AR500 Level III+ Lightweight plate offers a good balance of cost, weight and protection. Stopping threats up to 7.62mm at just 8.5 pounds per plate, it's a great mid-range armor. Pair it with an AR500 or Condor plate carrier for an affordable setup.

 

6. What does special threat rating on body armor mean?

 

Some armor with a basic NIJ rating like Level III can also defeat select threats above its rating. These "special threat" plates may stop additional rounds like 5.56mm M855 or 7.62mm M80 ball. Check if your Level III armor also handles these intermediate rifle threats.  

 

7. What material is best for body armor plates?

 

For affordability, durability and rifle protection AR500 steel. For maximum defense at greater cost and weight ceramic. For ultra lightweight and multi-hit capacity next-gen polyethylene plastics. Layered hybrid plates optimize traits of different ballistic materials.