Body Armor Types and Levels

Choosing the correct type of body armor is important to ensure you are protected completely. There are different types of body armor available depending on the threats they can protect against, and it is important to understand each to make sure you have the correct vest.

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Ballistic Protection

The most common type of body armor is a bulletproof vest, which provides you with ballistic protection. This means that it is resistant to bullets, though exactly what types of bullets depend on the level the armor is listed at. Ballistic protection levels are assigned based on the ammunition the vest can stop, with higher levels capable of stopping stronger ammunition. Bulletproof vests at Levels I-IIIa use soft materials like Kevlar®, which are incredibly strong and can trap and slow bullets to a complete stop.

A bulletproof vest at Level IIIa can stop the vast majority of ammunition used in handguns and is the strongest soft body armor available. Higher levels require rigid plates made from materials like Ceramics or Polyethylene.

Edged Blade Protection

This is most commonly referred to as stab protection, meaning it can protect you against attacks involving weapons like knives. These vests differ from bullet-resistant vests because of the materials they use. However, most stab-proof vests will still use Kevlar and will come with ballistic protection. Stab protection can stop attacks using edged weapons, like knives, axes, and broken bottles. Stab-proof vests use materials like chainmail to stop the edge from cutting through the Kevlar beneath, which in turn absorbs some of the impacts from the attack.

Spike Protection

Many people don&#;t realize that stab protection is different from spike protection, and weapons like needles or screwdrivers for example will require a spike-proof vest. Spike protection is usually offered in conjunction with edged blade protection and ballistic protection. Spike protection can stop attacks using spiked weapons, which can otherwise pass through chainmail and Kevlar. Spike-proof vests, therefore, need layers of plastic laminate to create a tough surface that can stop these weapons. Spike-proof vests will usually have Kevlar and possibly chainmail beneath this plastic laminate, which helps absorb the impact of an attack. 

The protection you need depends on the most likely threats you will face. The different types of body armor available reflect the different types of protection available. For protection against firearms, you will need ballistic protection in the form of a bulletproof vest. For protection against edged weapons like knives, you will need a stab-proof vest. For protection against spiked weapons like ice picks, you will need a vest with spike protection.

What does Level III body armor stop? 

Level 3 body armor is the first tier of bulletproof plate that protects against higher caliber rifle rounds, per NIJ standards. These rounds include the following: 

• 7.62×39 123gr PS Ball (MSC)
• 7.62×51 147gr FMJ (M80) &#; up to  ft/s
• 5.56x45 55gr (M193) up to ft/s*  

*NOTE: This plate is not rated to stop M855 or armor piercing rifle rounds.

Differences between soft body armor and hard body armor: 

When choosing between soft body armor and hard body armor, it is important to understand the key distinctions between the two. 

Soft body armor is flexible and designed to stop handgun rounds. Hard body armor, on the other hand, is typically made from more rigid materials such as ceramic, steel or polyethylene, and rated to stop rifle rounds. Soft body armor is generally lighter and more concealable, while hard body armor is heavier and offers more stopping power.

With this distinction in mind, it is important to understand that you won't find Level 3 soft body armor. Anything considered &#;soft armor&#; is typically rated Level 3A and below. 

Differences between Level 3A, Level 3, and Level 3+ body armor:

The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) sets the standards for ballistic resistance in body armor. Level 3A and Level 3 are different levels of protection defined by the NIJ. Level 3+ body armor, on the other hand, is not an official designation, and varies depending on the manufacturer.

At Premier Body Armor, the &#;+&#; indicates we have tested the armor against ammunition that exceeds the Level 3 NIJ standard. For example, our Stratis Level 3+ plate has been tested against higher powered ammunition in addition to the rounds required for the NIJ rated Level 3 designation, thus earning a Level 3+ body armor rating.

Level 3A body armor provides protection against common handgun rounds up to .44 Magnum and is generally lighter than its higher rated counterparts. Level IIIA you'll find as soft body armor, with all other body armor rated Level 3 and up usually hard armor. You'd be hard pressed to find soft level 3 body armor. Level 3 body armor provides protection against high-powered rifle rounds. It is commonly used by law enforcement and military personnel.

It's important to note that the higher the level of protection, the heavier the armor will be. This is something to consider when selecting body armor for a specific use case.

Should I choose ceramic, steel, or polyethylene level 3 plates?

The choice between ceramic, steel, or polyethylene Level III armor depends on your specific needs and priorities. Consider these factors:

Weight of Level 3 Plates

Of the three, Level 3 ceramic plates are generally the heaviest, although depending on the manufacturer, Level 3 steel plates can be as heavy as ceramic plates. If keeping weight down is critical, polyethylene plates are the best option, as they are typically the lightest of the three. 

Polyethylene has a low density lattice structure at a molecular level. This structure allows air to be trapped inside during the manufacturing process. This keeps weight down while still providing strength, durability, and maneuverability.

Performance of Level 3 Plates

Level 3 polyethylene, steel, and ceramic plates offer the same stopping power against ballistic threats. Steel plates are durable and affordable, but heavier. Ceramic plates are lightweight and do not spall, but are more brittle. Polyethylene plates are lightweight, have a low spalling risk, and can withstand multiple impacts.

Buyers should consider their needs and budget when choosing the right Level 3 body armor.

Most Comfortable Level 3 Plates

Level 3 polyethylene plates are typically the most comfortable plates for extended wear as they are the lightest. Premier Body Armor's Stratis Level 3+ plates are lightweight and Shooter's Cut for optimal performance.

What cut of Level 3 body armor should I get? 

There are many different cuts of Level 3 body armor plates that cater to different scenarios. Traditionally, the military utilizes an ESAPI cut. ESAPI stands for Enhanced Small Arms Protective Insert and provides the most coverage. 

The shooter&#;s cut on the other hand, is designed for those in active shooting scenarios. Shooter's armor usually has a sharper angle cut on the top corners. This increases arm mobility, particularly for those using rifles regularly. 

The swimmers cut features even more drastic angular cuts than the shooters cut, and often features rounded bottom corners to aid mobility of the legs.

Want more information on Stab-Proof Vest? Feel free to contact us.

Backpack plates are another type of Level III plate, and feature a different cut than the shooter or ESAPI cuts. Backpack plates are typically longer and more rectangular. This provides a better fit when using the plate in a backpack. Typically, backpack plates will provide a greater area of coverage, though this means they can be heavier than a chest plate.

What plate carrier do I use with Level 3 armor plates? 

When choosing a plate carrier for use with Level 3 armor plates, it is important to consider weight, attachment points, and material. These all play a role in the fit and functionality of each armor system. 

Our Discreet Plate Carrier is a minimalist carrier designed to carry Level 3 or Level 4 armor plates. Fitted with a cummerbund for easy magazine access, the Discreet Plate Carrier is an excellent option for those in search of an easily concealed plate carrier.

The Core Plate Carrier is another plate carrier offered by Premier Body Armor, and features a rugged, durable design and a reinforced drag handle. The Core Plate Carrier also features a Level 3A soft body armor cummerbund to ensure 360 degrees of protection. 

Our Hybrid Tactical Vest is another great option for those in need of a plate carrier. While many plate carriers only hold plates, the Hybrid Tactical Vest is a Level 3A soft body armor vest with front and rear plate carrying capacity.

More information on finding the right plate carrier for you can be found at our Plate Carrier Collection.

Level 3 Body Armor FAQs 

Can civilians own level 3 body armor plates?

Yes, civilians can own Level 3 body armor plates in most states in the U.S. However, some states have restrictions on the ownership and purchase of body armor, so it's important to check your local laws before buying.

How much does level 3 body armor weigh?

The weight of Level 3 body armor can vary depending on the specific type and brand. However, most non-polyethylene level 3 plates weigh between 6 and 8 pounds.

What level of armor do cops wear?

Police officers typically wear Level 3A soft armor in their vests, which is designed to protect against handguns and other low-velocity threats. Some officers may opt to wear Level 3 or higher armor in certain situations.

Can an AR-15 penetrate a level 3 ballistic plate?

With body armor, it&#;s all about velocity. Barrel length can also play a role. Standard Level III plates were never designed to stop 5.56x45 and may struggle with some AR-15 rounds. 

Polyethylene plates that are beefed up (like our Stratis III+ line) are specifically designed to stop 55 grain 5.56x45, commonly referred to as M193 and all 223, but will not stop 62 grain 5.56x45, commonly referred to as M855. Steel level III plates, on the other hand, will generally stop M855 and not M193.

In other words, if stopping ALL rounds from the AR-15 is your primary concern, you may want to err on the side of caution and go with Level IV plates.

Can an AK-47 pierce a level 3 plate?

No, most Level 3 ballistic plates are designed to stop rifle rounds, including the 7.62x39mm rounds fired by an AK-47. All level 3 plates will stop all 7.62x39 rounds.  Level III+ plates are designed to stop 7.62x39mm PS ball (MSC - Mild Steel Core).

Is level 3 body armor concealable?

Level 3 body armor is typically not easily concealable, as it requires plates to provide adequate protection against rifle rounds. However, some plate carriers, such as our Discreet Plate Carrier, are designed to be more low-profile and less bulky.

Do bullets still hurt with armor class 3 plates?

While Level 3 rifle-rated plates are designed to stop bullets and prevent serious injury, the impact can still be jarring and cause discomfort or bruising. It's also important to note that no rifle-rated body armor can provide 100% protection against all threats.

How long do Level 3 plates last?

The lifespan of Level 3 plates can vary depending on the specific type and brand, as well as how often they are used and how well they are maintained. However, most Level 3 plates are designed to last for several years with proper care.

Are Level 3 plates stab proof or knife resistant?

Level 3 plates are not designed to be stab proof or knife resistant. They are designed to stop bullets and other ballistic threats, not sharp objects. While they may fare better than no armor at all, it is recommended that those looking for protection against stabbing or slashing attacks consider stab-resistant armor.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Bulletproof Stab Proof Vest.