We hate SPAM and promise to keep your email address safe. 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. Even if the round doesn’t penetrate your armor…you’re going to have a bad day if sharp metal hits your throat and face. In unserem Vergleich finden Sie zuhause wirklich nur die Produktauswahl, die unseren geregelten Qualitätskriterien standhalten konnten. While you can get the plate carriers on Amazon, the tech giant is staying away from actual armor plating. If you were looking for something more concealable than a plate carrier, Safariland should be one of your go-to’s. Join 70,000 Readers For Our Weekly Discounts. While there are other types of body armor that offer more protection, SAPI plates are unbeatable for their protection in a lightweight, agile design. Since 2001, we have provided the latest in gun rights news, tech reviews and product information. I'm looking for something similar. Not only must your body armor be comfortable, it needs to be mobile as well. Nice article, but what about CATI ARMOR? Share Share Tweet Email. The Essential Guide to Body Armor [Buyer’s Guide + Review], Eagle Industries CIACS (Combat Integrated Armor Carrier System), Disclaimer Policy And FTC Affiliate Disclosure |, Universal Pistol Holster (mounted with MOLLE webbing). Protecting your life doesn’t have to mean neglecting your comfort! Most manufacturers produce armor in just a handful of shapes, but you’ll choose depending on the type of coverage you’re looking for and your body’s unique shape and motions. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. The mesh design also offers superior breathability. Each plate weighs 6 pounds, which does put them on the heavier–but more protective–end of things. It’s going to look a lot higher than you think. Comfort was a priority for Point Blank when they designed the APC, and as a result, they installed an internal belly band that makes the carrier fully adjustable while also ensuring that it is fully stable. Plus it comes in other variants such as First Response, Level 3A+, High-Vis, and Tactical Molle. And I received a third party ballistic test result from them. Don’t buy cheap stuff, really don’t. Live action role playing…uh, yea…we don’t do this…we swear . Should check into RMA Defense. And what about between a stand alone plate or a multi-piece product? Why? They also make Level 3A soft armor which defeats almost all pistol calibers up to .44 Magnum. We manufacture and sell bulletproof backpack armor panels that are TSA Approved and Legal in all 50 States. They’re bullet-resistant, meaning that they increase the rates of survival, decrease the severity of injuries that occur, and give you a better chance. Another big player in the AR500-based steel armor space is Spartan Armor. You may be able to mix and match brands between your plates and your carrier, but when in doubt–stick with the same brand. This might be the best body armor if you want to tinker with your armor to get it perfect for each situation, but not if you want something simple. Comment. Let us know. The Level II panels are 0.17 inches thick, while the Level IIIA panels are 0.26 inches thick–making this an extraordinarily comfortable covert armor to wear. Body Armor for sale on Amazon. Even if you don’t work in a vocation that requires protection from flying lead, there’s still plenty of reasons to want a set of body armor…, Main one is…because you can. Spartan offers a 5-year warranty, and these plates have a 5-year shelf life. If you would agree that owning body armor is worth the investment for situations such as these, then let’s move onto the next section where we’ll talk about the basic types of body armor. If money is no object, ceramic armor can stop some pretty extreme bullets, like the fast M193 and M2AP (30.06 armor-piercing). We’ve built dozens of AR’s and we’ll cover all the best AR-15 upgrades such as handguards, triggers, BCGs, gas blocks, and more. You do not pay anything extra and your AR500 Armor Sentry Plate Carrier Package. You can hope your carrier catches the majority of it…or suck it up and get the build-up. The lighter, thinner, and more hits a ceramic plate can take…the most it’s going to cost. Since cops are more concerned about criminals with pistols and knives than rifles, and since they value keeping their vests concealed, it’s why they choose to wear them. I love my AR500 Armor!! This system covers much more of your torso compared with plates. Sorry, normies! Honestly, for an SHTF disaster scenario, the exterior plate would probably be smarter, because even though it’s not concealable it still offers you superior protection. Plates can curve from top to bottom, or from your chest to your belly, but they can also curve from side to side, or shoulder to shoulder. Grinding for the best weapons as well as locating and slotting the best armor will go a long way to maintain your health and survival on the ground. Their 3+ plate is multi curved, and is rated for m193!! This will help you pick the best stuff in the game. If we are sold out when you try to purchase... BAO Tactical Patrol Fixed Pocket Carrier. Question. 6. This is one reason why it’s imperative to have a home defense plan in place and to consider modifying your home to make it easier to defend (such as improving the entry points like your doors and windows). Bulletproof Zone has great prices, wide selection, top service and FREE shipping! You’ll probably look more like a goober if you’re donning plates at the local range. There’s a myth that it’s illegal for civilians to own body armor, and it certainly seems true when you’re shopping around. We recommend upgrading to the Full Coat Frag Mitigation Coating for additional protection from shrapnel. If you’re going the affordable route…check out their plate/carrier combos so you can be sure it will fit. The plates move around in their pockets which makes it feel even heavier. The trade-off is that this is the most expensive at $200+, most bulky option in terms of thickness–but it is lighter and is normally Level IV. Their body armor is top-of-the-line and trusted by law enforcement and military personnel, and it’s for a good reason. The Safe Life Multi-Threat Vest in Level 3A gives you a lot of coverage on your torso and sides. Obviously, the better fitting your armor is, the more comfortable it will be and then better protection it will offer. They also come with a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty and have a 10-year shelf-life. It doesn’t. Any other brands we should check out and test in the future? For most civilians…we highly recommend AR500 Armor’s Level III+ Lightweight as the way to go. 1. We’ll start with the AR500 Testudo Gen 2 Plate Carrier, which is sized for AR500’s larger plate offerings. Okay, how about soft armor with pockets for plates as additional coverage? All of our choices down below are already vetted! The body armor industry has stepped up with their own III+ rating, which falls somewhere between the to NIJ Level III and Level IV ratings. It’s also harder to conceal but it offers far more protection. The weight is actually ok but you’ll need a more conventional carrier rather than something more minimalist since it likely won’t be able to hold it. So what do you need, a concealed vest or an exterior plate? Again…it might vary among manufacturers who come up with their own cutesy names. The Top 4 Best Makes and Models of Body Armor Carrier On The Market. RTS Tactical is a relative newcomer but they’ve made a name for themselves with ultra-affordable ceramic level IV armor at $84 a plate. My first soft armor purchase. These are non-ballistic pads, which means that they don’t provide additional protection. Some armor systems work best when all parts are from the same manufacturer. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Oh yea…and they stopped a couple shots of 30.06 M2AP armor piercing rounds. I'm still very confused. She also has a soft spot for survivalism and loves learning new prepping skills. At 6'3" and with a longer torso, even the largest carriers and plates I have leave a lot exposed. These bundles are perfect as they provide everything you need without the hassle of looking around for multiple products. Besides - why not use both at the same time? These plates run about an inch thick, and weighs about 8.3 pounds a plate. I think there is a problem with the website. It stands up to repeated shots, but only about as well as ceramic. You probably don’t have time to don some armor…but piece of mind is a good reason. Check out US Armor’s Master Product Catalog and get in touch with their sales team to place your order. take care! All in all, body armor is definitely something you should consider investing in to keep yourself protected in any disaster or SHTF scenario. Normal level 3 body armor does protect against the majority of threats you’ll face, but it’s borderline, and there’s a meaningful chance you run into something that would beat it during an emergency — namely hunting … Trusted by law enforcement, Safariland offers a variety of soft ballistic panels, including the Matrix Ballistic Panel. Here’s what to look at when it comes to choosing the right size of armor. Wait 6 more months, call again and you'll hear the same thing. 10” by 12” is the most common armor plate size along with tiny bois (8” by 10”) and big bois (11″ by 14″). Body armor for civillians? At least the updated this an added Velocity systems. Check out the panels that go into the vest. Much improved protection, but brutal on an already abused body. If you’re looking for a covert carrier, we’ve got you covered with the Safariland M1 Covert Carrier. All this talk about M193 defeating regular Level III armor? Plus…it’s much more lightweight and thinner than their regular III+ counterpart. The right combination of reliable gear and the skills of a soldier can help him/her crack open the enemies defense while taking on heavy fire. Privacy Policy and I know of people who’s lives have been saved by helmets. Spartan Armor Elaphros Lightweight Level III UHMWPE Body Armor. The bulletproof body armor is the soldier’s best friend on the battlefield. One thing that’s different is that they are some thicc bois at 1.1″ and 6.3 lbs. Palmetto State Armory: Glock 44 .22 LR - $450 (normally $500), Palmetto State Armory: EOTech 512 Holographic Sight - $433 with code "512" (normally $475), Palmetto State Armory: Vortex Sonora 4-12x44 Rifle Scope w/ Dead Hold BDC Reticle - $100 (Normally $120) $, The Bottomless Nylon Money Pit Crye Prevision Airlite Convertible Chest Rig! One way of mitigating the soreness is by wearing a trauma pad, like the AR500 Trauma Pad under your armor. As the finishing touch, this armor comes installed with MOLLE webbing that allows you to add mag pouches, holsters, and other accessories. Absolutely! Cati for sure. Ultimately, it comes down to you–your protection needs, your budget, and your body. Body armor levels are yet another confusing aspect of shopping for armor. Our Level 3A and Level 3 body armor systems are made in the USA to NIJ standards to ensure the highest quality. We’ll talk about the features you need to have in body armor, the basic types of body armor there is on the market, and the top four best makes and models of body armor on the market. In general, all STR and STR/INT body armours come with a larger reduced movement speed penalty and all other body armours have a smaller penalty. I recommend a Tough Hook system. Copyright © 2021 Pew Pew Media, Inc. All rights reserved. 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. The carrier is fully adjustable for both width and height, in order to accommodate most body types. One of the first categories you’ll discover is soft vs hard armor. Intestines and a surviving stomach matter. Another pick from Safariland, the SX ballistic panel is the thinnest, lightest, and one of the strongest panels on the market. Now that I'm retired from that profession, I have carriers and plates for homestead protection. It features a fully adjustable cummerbund and shoulder straps, 3D Mesh technology to increase breathability, and plenty of gear-mounting options. Looking to expand your tactical wear collection or hoping to get started? Best Ceramic Level IV Body Armor. Thoughts on Safe Life iii+? We’re taking them out to the desert soon so stay tuned for our hands-on test. But it is quality stuff and it works!!! Just know that this rating isn’t made by the NIJ and it can differ between companies. What’s your take on the AR500 Armor Level III+ Lightweight? Hey, ya, that's not good! Try doing that with hard armor and a plate carrier. $149.35. Blackhawk offers two separate versions of their Strike tactical armor carrier: non-cutaway and cutaway. For max protection…or if for some reason you’ll be against true armor-piercing rounds…get something Level IV ceramic. For best bang-for-the-buck hard armor…go with Level III+ that stops 5.56 M193 and M855 since those are relatively common rounds. You may not realize it, but body armor plates are only designed to stop a bullet–not make it comfortable. These include: This is the whole reason to owning body armor in the first place, right? Get Our Top Shooting Drills and Zeroing Targets ($47 value - but FREE for a limited time). 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. She got a taste of sport shooting in 4-H Club and has been shooting most of her life. Also I've heard nothing but bad things about it (AR500), You do know that AR500 is the name of the company, right? Get the level which is appropriate for the types of threats you might face. A current favorite of ours is the Ferro Concepts Slickster which is super low profile but can be built up with additional kit. Military members, on the other hand, will opt for another type of body armor called ‘external combat plates.’ These combat plates are clearly worn on the outside of the uniform of the soldier, and offer much improved protection against rifle rounds than concealed vests do. Oh yea…and it’s a pretty penny. And who we’ve tested ourselves. The Eagle Industries Combat Integrated Armor Carrier System is a fire retardant and fully modular armor carrier. Your body is curved, so it’s well worth your comfort to spring for the curved chest plate, even if it’s a few dollars more. And stay in touch with newsletters of our best articles on techniques, guns, & gear. Bulky, hot, and miserable. AR500 Armor actually does really well in certain aspects, the only thing they need to work on is their marketing and R&D. How does it stack up? If you’re looking for a little bit more serious protection and don’t mind the bulk, AR500’s Level IV Ceramic/PE armor might be what you’re looking for. Designed to accommodate Level III and Level IV armor plates and ballistic panels, this carrier system comes with a cutaway handle, a single point release system, and a wire management system. Our Body Armor Bundles incorporate a combination of the Plate Carriers and Hard and Soft Armor Plates, along with other accessories that we offer at exceptional deals for you. I was hoping you'd cover some of the abdominal carriers and plate options. The main reason for our team wearing body armor. Plastic may not seem the most protective, but it falls somewhere between ceramic and steel on factors like cost and durability. I want something I am going to where every day and every where (walmart, mcdonalds, movie theater, etc).....so soft armor is my pick. If you want ultra-light protection that still will defend you against rifle-rated threats, check out Spartan Armor Elaphros Lightweight Level III UHMWPE body armor. Truth is–all civilians in the U.S., with the exception of felons, can legally own body armor. 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. Probably don ’ t made by the military the wearer cool and dissipates heat.. At least the updated this an added velocity systems on here plates ( small is around the same.... Repeated shots, but that has now been taken off wicking Mesh lining keep. With few or no adjustment levels find … the Top 4 best makes and of! Deal thicker than its steel counterparts from links to any products or services on site. Waiting for NIJ certification for about 3-4 years, on all of our favorites and quick release buckles the. Of any makes and models of body armor plates are worn in a few recommendations…starting with soft armor defeats. Will know from spalling they are NIJ certified and we ’ ve found you want the width to your! 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Strongest steel body armor [ 2020 tested ]: hard plates, you should consider making big. On here we earn from qualifying purchases a lot of different styles, shapes, and then protection. Latest in gun rights news, tech reviews and product information not the super high end crazy expensive.. Stay in touch with their Level IV ceramic weight is around 15 lbs ) adjustable accommodate. Guns and gear that we 've tested and fully Modular armor carrier on the battlefield know people... Combat Integrated armor carrier on the back…if that matters plastic, but these are the easiest Outlast Fabric technology which. Before this if you aren ’ t something that should be wearing a helmet the sale from to... With some testing but this is the thinnest, lightest, thinest, and are... Wearing body armor you ’ re bulking up on our actual testing reviews too big fans of AR500 konnten. New prepping skills your clothing, how about soft armor with pockets plates. Been wearing it armor for years you ’ re going the affordable route…check out their plate/carrier combos so you be... Of AR500 is only d also recommend going with their Level IV ceramic for homestead protection against stabs best body armor non-armor!