3a vs 3+ Body Armor
This video clarifies the distinctions between Level 3A and Level 3+ body armor. Level 3A is an official NIJ standard focused on handgun protection, stopping rounds up to .44 Magnum and .357 SIG, and is typically soft, lightweight, and flexible. Level 3+ is not an official NIJ standard but refers to Level 3 plates that offer enhanced protection beyond the standard 7.62x51mm requirement, with specific additional round protection varying by manufacturer.











