Collection: Bulletproof Plates

Selecting the appropriate ballistic protection equipment that aligns with your specific needs and potential threats is crucial. By understanding the different protection levels and ammunition types, you can make informed decisions to ensure your safety and security in hazardous environments. 

When you step into the line of fire to do your duty, you want to know that you have the proper gear for the application, whether it is as a law enforcer, military officer or just a person stepping up to protect your family.

When it comes to your personal safety in high-risk situations, having the right ballistic protection equipment is paramount. The National Institute of Justice (NIJ), a scientific research and development organization for the United States Department of Justice (DOJ), is responsible for setting the national standard for body armour worn by law enforcement and corrections officers. They conduct rigorous testing to evaluate the performance of ballistically certified body armour and ensure its effectiveness in the field.

In addition to the NIJ standards, international standards set by governments such as those in the UK, Australia, and Germany, provide criteria for evaluating the durability of body armour. We aim to provide you with a comprehensive overview to help you determine which level of body armour is suitable for the specific threats you may encounter.

Understanding Protection Levels and Ammunition Types

The NIJ has established five main armour protection level classifications: IIA, II, IIIA, III, and IV. The inclusion of the "A" in certain levels indicates that the armour offers enhanced protection compared to the previous level, although it may not meet the requirements of the subsequent level. The NIJ no longer approves Level I armour due to its inadequate resistance level.

Soft body armour typically falls under Level IIIA and below, while hard body armour, which includes body armour plates, generally falls under Level III and above. Each armour level provides distinct advantages against different types of ammunition:

1. Level IIA: This soft body armour is lightweight and discreet, offering protection against 9mm and 40 S&W bullets.
2. Level II: Level II armour is still lightweight and concealable, providing greater protection than Level IIA. It can stop 9mm and .357 Magnum ammunition fired from short-barrel handguns.
3. Level IIIA: This flexible and soft body armour offers excellent protection against .357 SIG and .44 Magnum ammunition fired from longer-barrel handguns.
4. Level III: Hard body armour, incorporating metal plates or composite materials, is designed to withstand rifle rounds. The NIJ tests this armour to ensure its ability to withstand 7.62mm FMJ lead core rifle ammunition.
5. Level IV: The highest level of body armour, Level IV is specifically designed for military applications. It provides protection against .30 calibre steel core armour-piercing rifle ammunition, making it ideal for combat situations.