Body Armor Placement: Hard Plates

Published on May 15, 2017
Duration: 7:38

This guide details the proper placement of hard armor plates in a plate carrier, emphasizing the importance of protecting vital organs like the heart, lungs, and diaphragm. Key placement points include aligning the top of the front plate with the suprasternal notch, extending it 1.5 inches below the sternum, and covering the nipples. The rear plate should be positioned about an inch below the C7 vertebrae. Side plates are noted to protect lower abdominal organs rather than thoracic vitals.

Quick Summary

Proper hard armor plate placement is crucial for survivability. The front plate should align with the suprasternal notch, extend 1.5 inches below the sternum, and cover the nipples. The rear plate should be about an inch below the C7 vertebrae. This ensures protection of vital organs like the heart and diaphragm, keeping you in the fight.

Chapters

  1. 00:08Introduction to Body Armor
  2. 00:53Why Hard Plates? Objective: Staying in the Fight
  3. 01:22Protecting Vital Organs: Heart and Diaphragm
  4. 01:45Anatomy Target Demonstration
  5. 02:31How to Place Hard Plates: Sizing and Positioning
  6. 02:51Front Plate Placement: Suprasternal Notch and Diaphragm
  7. 03:26Front Plate Placement: Width and Nipple Line
  8. 04:09Chin-to-Plate Test for Front Placement
  9. 04:37Rear Plate Placement: C7 Vertebrae Reference
  10. 05:19Side Plates: Limitations and Alternatives
  11. 05:54Shoulder Plates for Upper Thoracic Protection
  12. 06:35Summary of Optimal Plate Placement

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary goal of wearing hard plate body armor?

The primary goal of wearing hard plate body armor is to 'keep you in the fight' by protecting vital organs like the heart and diaphragm. This ensures that even if other parts of the body are injured, the wearer can remain functional and continue operating.

How should I position the front hard plate on my body?

Align the top of the front plate with your suprasternal notch. Ensure it extends at least 1.5 inches below your sternum to protect the diaphragm and covers your nipples on the sides for maximum chest protection.

What is the correct placement for the rear hard plate?

Locate the C7 vertebrae on your spine. The top of your rear hard plate should be positioned approximately one inch below this prominent bone to ensure adequate coverage of vital organs.

Do side plates protect vital thoracic organs?

Cummerbund-mounted side plates primarily protect the liver and kidneys. For protection of vital thoracic organs, such as the heart and lungs, shoulder plates or properly positioned front and rear plates are more effective.

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