It also has what the company calls a “dynamic cummerbund system” with integrated side pockets for more plates, and it features a rugged nylon shell that’s water resistant and fully adjustable. It was originally developed by the Dutch company AKZO Corp. We’re big fans of AR500 Armor (yes, confusing name) who is likely the largest player in AR500-based armor. It has all the same great features, it’s just sized for smaller plates and smaller bodies. There’s side opening for easy access, removable ID patches and it comes with its own carry bag.
Plates are inserted into the carrier through the bottom, being held in place by hook and look and snap fasteners. And before we run through our recommendations…we’ll walk you through the important technical aspects so you can choose the best armor for your end-use and budget. Best Body Armor [2020 Tested]: Hard Plates & Soft Armor. Their weight varies based on their construction, and several sizes are made to accommodate different needs. The protective gear had internal body armor that protected them from the initial impact and the following abrasion as they slid to a halt. Spartan Armor Elaphros Lightweight Level III UHMWPE Body Armor. Even with these ratings, it’s important to keep in mind that a combination of factors can affect the effectiveness of a vest. Pair it up with a Concealment Carrier and no one except you will know. Bill Murphy states that these plates are the “only standalone plates able to withstand three .30-06 armor-piercing (AP) rounds. US Armor also uses Outlast Fabric technology, which helps keep the wearer cool and dissipates heat handily. Designed to fit in most carriers, each plate is water- and weatherproof, and utilizes a comfortable triple-curve design. Bulletproof Zone offers a top range of body armor such as bulletproof vests, plate carriers, bulletproof clothing as well as bulletproof backpacks, and other safety tactical gear. It’s also lighter than average, and it uses a unique single-cable system so that the wearer can release the armored plates without removing the whole vest. It covers you front, back and side against the kind of threats you’re likely to encounter in Chicago, LA or Miami.
But it’s also the heaviest at 8+ pounds each plate normally. There’s molle webbing all around, double stitching at key points and a front hook and loop ID panel. The core of the vest is a system of interchangeable panels that provide a huge amount of versatility. A couple of plates could weigh well over 10 pounds and impede your movement to a significant degree. And that protection begins with body armor. The Generation 2 Testudo is all inclusive and on point, ready to protect the warrior out of the gate. For most civilians…we highly recommend AR500 Armor’s Level III+ Lightweight as the way to go. by Todd Burgreen / For more information, visit survivalarmor.com or call 866-868-5001. I have read the Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Cookie Policy, and I hereby agree to those terms. You’ll also want the width to cover your nipples. As such it’s more likely to be worn by police officers or high end private security officers during the performance of their duties. We’ve got a dedicated section for the AR-15 here. Okay, how about soft armor with pockets for plates as additional coverage? This type of armor is commonly found in complete vests, but also can be found in inserts that can be added to bags, carriers, or behind stronger plates. I’m looking for something simple for my daughter (10) and myself. And of course, if an IED explodes next to you body armor won’t be of much use (1). It offers a massive amount of non-slip material for carrying weapons and plenty of room for pouches, so it’s the best body armor for people who need to carry plenty of gear. Soft armor is generally rated to stop small caliber pistol shot but won’t provide much protection against a rifle. Right now I have the 2 rifle mag / 2 pistol mag setup going on but I also got the shotgun placard in case I want to murder IPSC targets with extreme prejudice. So they represent the only group whose right to this sort of self-defense has been abridged.
They’re on the thicker side, at 1.1 inches thick, but come in a variety of sizes and cuts.
The Safe Life Multi-Threat Vest in Level 3A gives you a lot of coverage on your torso and sides. It’s on the tougher end of what most private citizens can comfortable use. The body armor system includes a Testudo Gen 2 Plate Carrier, 2 AR500 Armor Level III 10″ x 12″ curved plates, 2 AR500 Armor Trauma Pads and other various options based on personal preference. Soft armor can protect against many pistol calibers, as well as other threats like knives and debris.
I think the Safe Life Defense vest has this. Too large or too small plates may not cover you properly, and poorly cut shapes can restrict your movement or leave uncomfortable pressure points. These standardized ratings, however, are set by the Department of Justice’s National Institute of Justice, based on tiers of threats. You can find carriers with velcro and MOLLE so you can attach all your gear to it, and you can also find carriers that can be hidden under your clothing for more subtlety. We’ll start with the AR500 Testudo Gen 2 Plate Carrier, which is sized for AR500’s larger plate offerings. It can stop almost all handgun rounds and most non-armor piercing rifle rounds. It exhibits both low weight and high strength, the ideal combination for personal protective gear.
It pairs with a covert carrier, which will allow you to wear this armor under your clothing. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Police officers and and anyone looking for a more comfortable but less protective armor option usually go with soft armor. There are a few varieties out there, each with its pros and cons. Some states and cities are trying to ban body armor, but so far, none of these motions have actually become law. The X50 uses a patented shoulder strap system that is ergonomically designed to reduce felt weight by up to 50 percent. You don’t have to show any particular type of ID to do so and you’re free to walk away from the purchase carrying or wearing that body armor or bullet proof vest. It’s also fire resistant and won’t degrade under heat or if immersed in water. These plates only come in a 10×12 inch traditional cut size, but they’re tripled curved to hug the contour of your body and are 0.60 inches thick. We’ve got a few recommendations…starting with soft armor, moving into hard plates, and then ceramic. The mesh design also offers superior breathability. In protective vests and jackets, most back armor will feature CE Level 2-rated protection. I'm still very confused. You’ll pay a little more per plate than you would for similar steel plates, but you do get an extra level of protection from high-powered rounds. Their body armor is top-of-the-line and trusted by law enforcement and military personnel, and it’s for a good reason. They’re also stab-resistant for close-quarters protection and are multi-shot rated.
Another big player in the AR500-based steel armor space is Spartan Armor. This soft armor is rated Level II, which means it protects against stabs and most pistol caliber threats. Check out our Best 5.56 Ammo article. Choose what fits your body best. We touched on a few of these earlier but let’s do a deep dive now into the various materials used these days to produce bulletproof vests. The Velocity Systems Special Threat Ceramic Plates are multi-strike rated and tested against 7.62×39 Mild Steel Core, 7.62×51 M80 Ball, 5.56×45 M855, and 5.56×45 M193, which puts this armor at around a level III+ (though Velocity doesn’t specify). I called them and they said they passed all NIJ tests but are waiting for certification. Thoughts on Safe Life iii+? We like their “Hybrid” model which is thinner and lighter than their “Rimelig” model. For max protection…or if for some reason you’ll be against true armor-piercing rounds…get something Level IV ceramic.
Features include a single- point release system, a low-profile cutaway handle, a wire management system, an external bottom-loading front and back hard armor plate pockets, and the ability to accept soft armor inserts. Picking the best body armor involves sorting through many different factors.
It also has what the company calls a “dynamic cummerbund system” with integrated side pockets for more plates, and it features a rugged nylon shell that’s water resistant and fully adjustable. It was originally developed by the Dutch company AKZO Corp. We’re big fans of AR500 Armor (yes, confusing name) who is likely the largest player in AR500-based armor. It has all the same great features, it’s just sized for smaller plates and smaller bodies. There’s side opening for easy access, removable ID patches and it comes with its own carry bag.
Plates are inserted into the carrier through the bottom, being held in place by hook and look and snap fasteners. And before we run through our recommendations…we’ll walk you through the important technical aspects so you can choose the best armor for your end-use and budget. Best Body Armor [2020 Tested]: Hard Plates & Soft Armor. Their weight varies based on their construction, and several sizes are made to accommodate different needs. The protective gear had internal body armor that protected them from the initial impact and the following abrasion as they slid to a halt. Spartan Armor Elaphros Lightweight Level III UHMWPE Body Armor. Even with these ratings, it’s important to keep in mind that a combination of factors can affect the effectiveness of a vest. Pair it up with a Concealment Carrier and no one except you will know. Bill Murphy states that these plates are the “only standalone plates able to withstand three .30-06 armor-piercing (AP) rounds. US Armor also uses Outlast Fabric technology, which helps keep the wearer cool and dissipates heat handily. Designed to fit in most carriers, each plate is water- and weatherproof, and utilizes a comfortable triple-curve design. Bulletproof Zone offers a top range of body armor such as bulletproof vests, plate carriers, bulletproof clothing as well as bulletproof backpacks, and other safety tactical gear. It’s also lighter than average, and it uses a unique single-cable system so that the wearer can release the armored plates without removing the whole vest. It covers you front, back and side against the kind of threats you’re likely to encounter in Chicago, LA or Miami.
But it’s also the heaviest at 8+ pounds each plate normally. There’s molle webbing all around, double stitching at key points and a front hook and loop ID panel. The core of the vest is a system of interchangeable panels that provide a huge amount of versatility. A couple of plates could weigh well over 10 pounds and impede your movement to a significant degree. And that protection begins with body armor. The Generation 2 Testudo is all inclusive and on point, ready to protect the warrior out of the gate. For most civilians…we highly recommend AR500 Armor’s Level III+ Lightweight as the way to go. by Todd Burgreen / For more information, visit survivalarmor.com or call 866-868-5001. I have read the Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Cookie Policy, and I hereby agree to those terms. You’ll also want the width to cover your nipples. As such it’s more likely to be worn by police officers or high end private security officers during the performance of their duties. We’ve got a dedicated section for the AR-15 here. Okay, how about soft armor with pockets for plates as additional coverage? This type of armor is commonly found in complete vests, but also can be found in inserts that can be added to bags, carriers, or behind stronger plates. I’m looking for something simple for my daughter (10) and myself. And of course, if an IED explodes next to you body armor won’t be of much use (1). It offers a massive amount of non-slip material for carrying weapons and plenty of room for pouches, so it’s the best body armor for people who need to carry plenty of gear. Soft armor is generally rated to stop small caliber pistol shot but won’t provide much protection against a rifle. Right now I have the 2 rifle mag / 2 pistol mag setup going on but I also got the shotgun placard in case I want to murder IPSC targets with extreme prejudice. So they represent the only group whose right to this sort of self-defense has been abridged.
They’re on the thicker side, at 1.1 inches thick, but come in a variety of sizes and cuts.
The Safe Life Multi-Threat Vest in Level 3A gives you a lot of coverage on your torso and sides. It’s on the tougher end of what most private citizens can comfortable use. The body armor system includes a Testudo Gen 2 Plate Carrier, 2 AR500 Armor Level III 10″ x 12″ curved plates, 2 AR500 Armor Trauma Pads and other various options based on personal preference. Soft armor can protect against many pistol calibers, as well as other threats like knives and debris.
I think the Safe Life Defense vest has this. Too large or too small plates may not cover you properly, and poorly cut shapes can restrict your movement or leave uncomfortable pressure points. These standardized ratings, however, are set by the Department of Justice’s National Institute of Justice, based on tiers of threats. You can find carriers with velcro and MOLLE so you can attach all your gear to it, and you can also find carriers that can be hidden under your clothing for more subtlety. We’ll start with the AR500 Testudo Gen 2 Plate Carrier, which is sized for AR500’s larger plate offerings. It can stop almost all handgun rounds and most non-armor piercing rifle rounds. It exhibits both low weight and high strength, the ideal combination for personal protective gear.
It pairs with a covert carrier, which will allow you to wear this armor under your clothing. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Police officers and and anyone looking for a more comfortable but less protective armor option usually go with soft armor. There are a few varieties out there, each with its pros and cons. Some states and cities are trying to ban body armor, but so far, none of these motions have actually become law. The X50 uses a patented shoulder strap system that is ergonomically designed to reduce felt weight by up to 50 percent. You don’t have to show any particular type of ID to do so and you’re free to walk away from the purchase carrying or wearing that body armor or bullet proof vest. It’s also fire resistant and won’t degrade under heat or if immersed in water. These plates only come in a 10×12 inch traditional cut size, but they’re tripled curved to hug the contour of your body and are 0.60 inches thick. We’ve got a few recommendations…starting with soft armor, moving into hard plates, and then ceramic. The mesh design also offers superior breathability. In protective vests and jackets, most back armor will feature CE Level 2-rated protection. I'm still very confused. You’ll pay a little more per plate than you would for similar steel plates, but you do get an extra level of protection from high-powered rounds. Their body armor is top-of-the-line and trusted by law enforcement and military personnel, and it’s for a good reason. They’re also stab-resistant for close-quarters protection and are multi-shot rated.
Another big player in the AR500-based steel armor space is Spartan Armor. This soft armor is rated Level II, which means it protects against stabs and most pistol caliber threats. Check out our Best 5.56 Ammo article. Choose what fits your body best. We touched on a few of these earlier but let’s do a deep dive now into the various materials used these days to produce bulletproof vests. The Velocity Systems Special Threat Ceramic Plates are multi-strike rated and tested against 7.62×39 Mild Steel Core, 7.62×51 M80 Ball, 5.56×45 M855, and 5.56×45 M193, which puts this armor at around a level III+ (though Velocity doesn’t specify). I called them and they said they passed all NIJ tests but are waiting for certification. Thoughts on Safe Life iii+? We like their “Hybrid” model which is thinner and lighter than their “Rimelig” model. For max protection…or if for some reason you’ll be against true armor-piercing rounds…get something Level IV ceramic.
Features include a single- point release system, a low-profile cutaway handle, a wire management system, an external bottom-loading front and back hard armor plate pockets, and the ability to accept soft armor inserts. Picking the best body armor involves sorting through many different factors.
It also has what the company calls a “dynamic cummerbund system” with integrated side pockets for more plates, and it features a rugged nylon shell that’s water resistant and fully adjustable. It was originally developed by the Dutch company AKZO Corp. We’re big fans of AR500 Armor (yes, confusing name) who is likely the largest player in AR500-based armor. It has all the same great features, it’s just sized for smaller plates and smaller bodies. There’s side opening for easy access, removable ID patches and it comes with its own carry bag.
Plates are inserted into the carrier through the bottom, being held in place by hook and look and snap fasteners. And before we run through our recommendations…we’ll walk you through the important technical aspects so you can choose the best armor for your end-use and budget. Best Body Armor [2020 Tested]: Hard Plates & Soft Armor. Their weight varies based on their construction, and several sizes are made to accommodate different needs. The protective gear had internal body armor that protected them from the initial impact and the following abrasion as they slid to a halt. Spartan Armor Elaphros Lightweight Level III UHMWPE Body Armor. Even with these ratings, it’s important to keep in mind that a combination of factors can affect the effectiveness of a vest. Pair it up with a Concealment Carrier and no one except you will know. Bill Murphy states that these plates are the “only standalone plates able to withstand three .30-06 armor-piercing (AP) rounds. US Armor also uses Outlast Fabric technology, which helps keep the wearer cool and dissipates heat handily. Designed to fit in most carriers, each plate is water- and weatherproof, and utilizes a comfortable triple-curve design. Bulletproof Zone offers a top range of body armor such as bulletproof vests, plate carriers, bulletproof clothing as well as bulletproof backpacks, and other safety tactical gear. It’s also lighter than average, and it uses a unique single-cable system so that the wearer can release the armored plates without removing the whole vest. It covers you front, back and side against the kind of threats you’re likely to encounter in Chicago, LA or Miami.
But it’s also the heaviest at 8+ pounds each plate normally. There’s molle webbing all around, double stitching at key points and a front hook and loop ID panel. The core of the vest is a system of interchangeable panels that provide a huge amount of versatility. A couple of plates could weigh well over 10 pounds and impede your movement to a significant degree. And that protection begins with body armor. The Generation 2 Testudo is all inclusive and on point, ready to protect the warrior out of the gate. For most civilians…we highly recommend AR500 Armor’s Level III+ Lightweight as the way to go. by Todd Burgreen / For more information, visit survivalarmor.com or call 866-868-5001. I have read the Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Cookie Policy, and I hereby agree to those terms. You’ll also want the width to cover your nipples. As such it’s more likely to be worn by police officers or high end private security officers during the performance of their duties. We’ve got a dedicated section for the AR-15 here. Okay, how about soft armor with pockets for plates as additional coverage? This type of armor is commonly found in complete vests, but also can be found in inserts that can be added to bags, carriers, or behind stronger plates. I’m looking for something simple for my daughter (10) and myself. And of course, if an IED explodes next to you body armor won’t be of much use (1). It offers a massive amount of non-slip material for carrying weapons and plenty of room for pouches, so it’s the best body armor for people who need to carry plenty of gear. Soft armor is generally rated to stop small caliber pistol shot but won’t provide much protection against a rifle. Right now I have the 2 rifle mag / 2 pistol mag setup going on but I also got the shotgun placard in case I want to murder IPSC targets with extreme prejudice. So they represent the only group whose right to this sort of self-defense has been abridged.
They’re on the thicker side, at 1.1 inches thick, but come in a variety of sizes and cuts.
The Safe Life Multi-Threat Vest in Level 3A gives you a lot of coverage on your torso and sides. It’s on the tougher end of what most private citizens can comfortable use. The body armor system includes a Testudo Gen 2 Plate Carrier, 2 AR500 Armor Level III 10″ x 12″ curved plates, 2 AR500 Armor Trauma Pads and other various options based on personal preference. Soft armor can protect against many pistol calibers, as well as other threats like knives and debris.
I think the Safe Life Defense vest has this. Too large or too small plates may not cover you properly, and poorly cut shapes can restrict your movement or leave uncomfortable pressure points. These standardized ratings, however, are set by the Department of Justice’s National Institute of Justice, based on tiers of threats. You can find carriers with velcro and MOLLE so you can attach all your gear to it, and you can also find carriers that can be hidden under your clothing for more subtlety. We’ll start with the AR500 Testudo Gen 2 Plate Carrier, which is sized for AR500’s larger plate offerings. It can stop almost all handgun rounds and most non-armor piercing rifle rounds. It exhibits both low weight and high strength, the ideal combination for personal protective gear.
It pairs with a covert carrier, which will allow you to wear this armor under your clothing. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Police officers and and anyone looking for a more comfortable but less protective armor option usually go with soft armor. There are a few varieties out there, each with its pros and cons. Some states and cities are trying to ban body armor, but so far, none of these motions have actually become law. The X50 uses a patented shoulder strap system that is ergonomically designed to reduce felt weight by up to 50 percent. You don’t have to show any particular type of ID to do so and you’re free to walk away from the purchase carrying or wearing that body armor or bullet proof vest. It’s also fire resistant and won’t degrade under heat or if immersed in water. These plates only come in a 10×12 inch traditional cut size, but they’re tripled curved to hug the contour of your body and are 0.60 inches thick. We’ve got a few recommendations…starting with soft armor, moving into hard plates, and then ceramic. The mesh design also offers superior breathability. In protective vests and jackets, most back armor will feature CE Level 2-rated protection. I'm still very confused. You’ll pay a little more per plate than you would for similar steel plates, but you do get an extra level of protection from high-powered rounds. Their body armor is top-of-the-line and trusted by law enforcement and military personnel, and it’s for a good reason. They’re also stab-resistant for close-quarters protection and are multi-shot rated.
Another big player in the AR500-based steel armor space is Spartan Armor. This soft armor is rated Level II, which means it protects against stabs and most pistol caliber threats. Check out our Best 5.56 Ammo article. Choose what fits your body best. We touched on a few of these earlier but let’s do a deep dive now into the various materials used these days to produce bulletproof vests. The Velocity Systems Special Threat Ceramic Plates are multi-strike rated and tested against 7.62×39 Mild Steel Core, 7.62×51 M80 Ball, 5.56×45 M855, and 5.56×45 M193, which puts this armor at around a level III+ (though Velocity doesn’t specify). I called them and they said they passed all NIJ tests but are waiting for certification. Thoughts on Safe Life iii+? We like their “Hybrid” model which is thinner and lighter than their “Rimelig” model. For max protection…or if for some reason you’ll be against true armor-piercing rounds…get something Level IV ceramic.
Features include a single- point release system, a low-profile cutaway handle, a wire management system, an external bottom-loading front and back hard armor plate pockets, and the ability to accept soft armor inserts. Picking the best body armor involves sorting through many different factors.
It’s seriously durable since most range targets are constructed out of AR500. These are non-ballistic pads, which means that they don’t provide additional protection. Choosing the strongest options will do the reverse. There’s a staggering variety of body armor types and rating codes, so don’t feel bad if you’re left scratching your head. Whether you’re planning to pick up some standalone plates or spring for a set, there’s still plenty of must-have accessories to go with your shiny new armor. Here’s John in a small that weighs a little less than 6 lbs.
They held up to our mags of 9mm and revolvers full of .357 Magnum. Armor made from material such as AR500 steel is the most affordable hard armor on the market at around $70-100 a plate (you’ll want a front and back). Even if you’re not in the military, with an estimated 300 million legal firearms in private hands and millions more illegal guns in circulation the odds of encountering a live fire situation are increasing. The shell is fashioned (constructed is probably a better term) of 1000D Kodra water-resistant nylon and is covered in 360 degrees of heavy duty molle webbing. Mission adaptable, the PICO is designed to allow the user to configure the system as needed. It helps keep in the spalling…but we’ve found you want the build-up layer for it to be truly effective. On the other hand, it’s very expensive, and it might not be worth the price to every user. They are usually custom fit since they are meant to be worn all day long.
Plate Carrier + Armor Highlights. We definitely think there is a clear trade-off between the comfort and flexibility of your armor, versus the ballistic protection it can provide. While the best body armor will always be the one that is tailored for a specific threat, there are some that are much better than others for general use. Weight also varies based on sizing, accessories, and number of plates, so take it as a starting point. But one threat to keep in mind are very high-velocity rounds such as the 5.56 M193 which can still zip on through Level 3 armor. You can find carriers with velcro and MOLLE so you can attach all your gear to it, and you can also find carriers that can be hidden under your clothing for more subtlety. Again, we’d go with their Level III+ plates for proper rifle protection.
Top Shooting Drills and Zeroing Targets worth $47 FREE - Limited Period Offer, Brownells: BRN-10 Retro Rifle .308/7.62x51 NATO - $1,200 w/ code "VTH" (normally $1,710), PSA: Glock G44 .22LR RH Threaded Barrel Kit - $170 (Normally $200), Palmetto State Armory: 36" Single Gun Case and 7 30-round AR-15 D&H Mags - $120, Brownells: Real Avid Smart Torq Precision Driver - $80. Nor do they necessarily need that level of protection. It doesn’t. While US Armor does offer standard sizing, they’re best known for their custom fittings so your armor can be tailor-made to fit your form. There isn’t really an industry standard when it comes to sizing plates, and wrong-sized plates usually can’t be returned for safety reasons, so you want to get it right the first time. And that’s about it.
It also has what the company calls a “dynamic cummerbund system” with integrated side pockets for more plates, and it features a rugged nylon shell that’s water resistant and fully adjustable. It was originally developed by the Dutch company AKZO Corp. We’re big fans of AR500 Armor (yes, confusing name) who is likely the largest player in AR500-based armor. It has all the same great features, it’s just sized for smaller plates and smaller bodies. There’s side opening for easy access, removable ID patches and it comes with its own carry bag.
Plates are inserted into the carrier through the bottom, being held in place by hook and look and snap fasteners. And before we run through our recommendations…we’ll walk you through the important technical aspects so you can choose the best armor for your end-use and budget. Best Body Armor [2020 Tested]: Hard Plates & Soft Armor. Their weight varies based on their construction, and several sizes are made to accommodate different needs. The protective gear had internal body armor that protected them from the initial impact and the following abrasion as they slid to a halt. Spartan Armor Elaphros Lightweight Level III UHMWPE Body Armor. Even with these ratings, it’s important to keep in mind that a combination of factors can affect the effectiveness of a vest. Pair it up with a Concealment Carrier and no one except you will know. Bill Murphy states that these plates are the “only standalone plates able to withstand three .30-06 armor-piercing (AP) rounds. US Armor also uses Outlast Fabric technology, which helps keep the wearer cool and dissipates heat handily. Designed to fit in most carriers, each plate is water- and weatherproof, and utilizes a comfortable triple-curve design. Bulletproof Zone offers a top range of body armor such as bulletproof vests, plate carriers, bulletproof clothing as well as bulletproof backpacks, and other safety tactical gear. It’s also lighter than average, and it uses a unique single-cable system so that the wearer can release the armored plates without removing the whole vest. It covers you front, back and side against the kind of threats you’re likely to encounter in Chicago, LA or Miami.
But it’s also the heaviest at 8+ pounds each plate normally. There’s molle webbing all around, double stitching at key points and a front hook and loop ID panel. The core of the vest is a system of interchangeable panels that provide a huge amount of versatility. A couple of plates could weigh well over 10 pounds and impede your movement to a significant degree. And that protection begins with body armor. The Generation 2 Testudo is all inclusive and on point, ready to protect the warrior out of the gate. For most civilians…we highly recommend AR500 Armor’s Level III+ Lightweight as the way to go. by Todd Burgreen / For more information, visit survivalarmor.com or call 866-868-5001. I have read the Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Cookie Policy, and I hereby agree to those terms. You’ll also want the width to cover your nipples. As such it’s more likely to be worn by police officers or high end private security officers during the performance of their duties. We’ve got a dedicated section for the AR-15 here. Okay, how about soft armor with pockets for plates as additional coverage? This type of armor is commonly found in complete vests, but also can be found in inserts that can be added to bags, carriers, or behind stronger plates. I’m looking for something simple for my daughter (10) and myself. And of course, if an IED explodes next to you body armor won’t be of much use (1). It offers a massive amount of non-slip material for carrying weapons and plenty of room for pouches, so it’s the best body armor for people who need to carry plenty of gear. Soft armor is generally rated to stop small caliber pistol shot but won’t provide much protection against a rifle. Right now I have the 2 rifle mag / 2 pistol mag setup going on but I also got the shotgun placard in case I want to murder IPSC targets with extreme prejudice. So they represent the only group whose right to this sort of self-defense has been abridged.
They’re on the thicker side, at 1.1 inches thick, but come in a variety of sizes and cuts.
The Safe Life Multi-Threat Vest in Level 3A gives you a lot of coverage on your torso and sides. It’s on the tougher end of what most private citizens can comfortable use. The body armor system includes a Testudo Gen 2 Plate Carrier, 2 AR500 Armor Level III 10″ x 12″ curved plates, 2 AR500 Armor Trauma Pads and other various options based on personal preference. Soft armor can protect against many pistol calibers, as well as other threats like knives and debris.
I think the Safe Life Defense vest has this. Too large or too small plates may not cover you properly, and poorly cut shapes can restrict your movement or leave uncomfortable pressure points. These standardized ratings, however, are set by the Department of Justice’s National Institute of Justice, based on tiers of threats. You can find carriers with velcro and MOLLE so you can attach all your gear to it, and you can also find carriers that can be hidden under your clothing for more subtlety. We’ll start with the AR500 Testudo Gen 2 Plate Carrier, which is sized for AR500’s larger plate offerings. It can stop almost all handgun rounds and most non-armor piercing rifle rounds. It exhibits both low weight and high strength, the ideal combination for personal protective gear.
It pairs with a covert carrier, which will allow you to wear this armor under your clothing. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Police officers and and anyone looking for a more comfortable but less protective armor option usually go with soft armor. There are a few varieties out there, each with its pros and cons. Some states and cities are trying to ban body armor, but so far, none of these motions have actually become law. The X50 uses a patented shoulder strap system that is ergonomically designed to reduce felt weight by up to 50 percent. You don’t have to show any particular type of ID to do so and you’re free to walk away from the purchase carrying or wearing that body armor or bullet proof vest. It’s also fire resistant and won’t degrade under heat or if immersed in water. These plates only come in a 10×12 inch traditional cut size, but they’re tripled curved to hug the contour of your body and are 0.60 inches thick. We’ve got a few recommendations…starting with soft armor, moving into hard plates, and then ceramic. The mesh design also offers superior breathability. In protective vests and jackets, most back armor will feature CE Level 2-rated protection. I'm still very confused. You’ll pay a little more per plate than you would for similar steel plates, but you do get an extra level of protection from high-powered rounds. Their body armor is top-of-the-line and trusted by law enforcement and military personnel, and it’s for a good reason. They’re also stab-resistant for close-quarters protection and are multi-shot rated.
Another big player in the AR500-based steel armor space is Spartan Armor. This soft armor is rated Level II, which means it protects against stabs and most pistol caliber threats. Check out our Best 5.56 Ammo article. Choose what fits your body best. We touched on a few of these earlier but let’s do a deep dive now into the various materials used these days to produce bulletproof vests. The Velocity Systems Special Threat Ceramic Plates are multi-strike rated and tested against 7.62×39 Mild Steel Core, 7.62×51 M80 Ball, 5.56×45 M855, and 5.56×45 M193, which puts this armor at around a level III+ (though Velocity doesn’t specify). I called them and they said they passed all NIJ tests but are waiting for certification. Thoughts on Safe Life iii+? We like their “Hybrid” model which is thinner and lighter than their “Rimelig” model. For max protection…or if for some reason you’ll be against true armor-piercing rounds…get something Level IV ceramic.
Features include a single- point release system, a low-profile cutaway handle, a wire management system, an external bottom-loading front and back hard armor plate pockets, and the ability to accept soft armor inserts. Picking the best body armor involves sorting through many different factors.
