Which Body Armor Should You Buy? Plate Carrier Setup (NIJ Ratings, Ballistics, Comparisons, & More)

Published on September 18, 2022
Duration: 29:56

This video reviews the T.Rex Arms AC1 plate carrier with Hesco L210 Special Threat plates, detailing setup options and cost. It also provides an in-depth explanation of NIJ body armor ratings, comparing steel, ceramic, and polyethylene materials. Proper plate sizing, placement, and the purpose of body armor for civilian defense are also discussed.

Quick Summary

NIJ body armor ratings include Level IIIA for handguns up to .44 Magnum, Level III for 7.62 M80 rifle rounds, and Level IV for armor-piercing threats like .30-06 M2AP. 'Level III+' is an industry term for enhanced protection, often against M855 rounds.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: T.Rex Arms AC1 & Hesco L210 Setup
  2. 01:38Placard Options & Chest Rig Conversion
  3. 02:37Combat Setup & Medical Gear
  4. 06:08Understanding NIJ Body Armor Ratings
  5. 14:29Armor Materials: Steel vs. Ceramic vs. Poly
  6. 21:16Sizing, Placement, and Purpose of Body Armor

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different NIJ body armor ratings?

NIJ ratings are divided into handgun protection (Level IIA, II, IIIA) and rifle protection (Level III, IV). Level IIIA stops up to .44 Magnum, Level III stops 7.62 M80 rounds, and Level IV stops armor-piercing rounds like .30-06 M2AP.

What is 'Level III+' body armor?

'Level III+' is not an official NIJ rating but an industry term. It typically denotes plates that offer protection beyond standard Level III, often including the ability to stop M855 'green tip' 5.56x45mm rounds.

How should body armor plates be positioned?

Proper plate placement is crucial. The top edge of the plate should sit approximately one inch below your collarbone to effectively cover your heart and lungs, balancing protection with mobility.

What are the pros and cons of steel vs. ceramic body armor?

Steel plates (AR650) are durable, multi-hit capable, and affordable but heavy and prone to spall. Ceramic plates offer Level IV protection and are lighter but more fragile, thicker, and have a shorter lifespan.

Related News

All News →

More Tactical & Gear Videos You Might Like

More from GUNMEN

View all →