Myths of Body Armor - Don't Buy Anything But Level IV Body Armor

Published on January 28, 2023
Duration: 6:32

This video debunks the myth that Level IV body armor is the only realistic option. It emphasizes that the 'end purpose' and 'perceived threats' should dictate armor selection, not a blanket assumption of needing the highest rating. Different levels offer trade-offs in weight, cost, and concealability, making lower levels suitable for specific civilian needs.

Quick Summary

Level IV body armor is the highest rated, designed to stop M2 AP rounds. However, it's not always the best choice for civilians due to its weight, thickness, and cost. The ideal armor selection depends on your specific end-use and perceived threats, with lower levels like III, III+, or IIIA often being more practical.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Body Armor Myths
  2. 00:28Myth: Level IV is the Only Realistic Option
  3. 01:16Understanding NIJ Levels and Ratings
  4. 01:34Level IV Armor Requirements (M2 AP)
  5. 02:25Modern Military Rounds vs. NIJ Standards
  6. 02:40Level III and III+ Armor Capabilities
  7. 03:09Trade-offs of High-Level Armor
  8. 03:16Cons of Ceramic (Level IV) Armor
  9. 03:38Pros of Level III and III+ Armor
  10. 04:00Concealability and Body Armor Types
  11. 04:12Level IIIA Armor: Pros and Cons
  12. 04:55Backpack Armor Considerations
  13. 05:12Choosing Armor Based on Needs
  14. 05:29TLDR: Buy Armor That Fits Your Needs
  15. 05:48Conclusion: Level IV Isn't Always Best

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Level IV body armor always the best choice for civilians?

No, Level IV body armor is not always the best choice for civilians. While it offers the highest protection, it comes with significant trade-offs in weight, thickness, and cost. The optimal choice depends on your specific end-use and perceived threats, with lower levels like III, III+, or IIIA being more practical for many civilian applications.

What threats does Level IV body armor protect against?

Level IV body armor is rated to stop an M2 AP round, which is a 30-06 armor-piercing round fired from 15 yards. This level is designed for protection against high-powered rifle threats.

What are the downsides of Level IV body armor?

The primary downsides of Level IV body armor include its weight, thickness, higher cost, and often a shorter useful lifespan, especially if it's ceramic-based. These factors can impact mobility and concealability.

Can Level III or III+ armor stop common military rifle rounds?

Yes, Level III and III+ armor are capable of stopping common military rifle rounds such as 5.56x45mm, 7.62x51mm (.308 Winchester), and even the M855A1 round.

Why do law enforcement officers often wear Level IIIA body armor?

Law enforcement officers frequently wear Level IIIA body armor because it is lightweight, flexible, and concealable, offering comfort for long wear periods. It effectively stops the vast majority of handgun threats, which are most common in criminal activity.

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