Armor Plates For Beginners: Everything You Need To Get Started
Increased violence and civil unrest drive many newcomers to seek personal protection. Armor plates have become a solution for those seeking advanced safety tools. These life-saving components are at the core of effective body armor systems. They protect you from ballistic threats while still providing mobility.
If you're considering gear for professional use or personal defense, understanding the basics of armor plates can help you make confident and informed choices. Let’s break down armor plates so that you can choose the best equipment for your safety needs.
Understanding Armor Plates
Armor plates are bullet-resistant inserts designed to fit into a plate carrier or bulletproof vest. They form the foundation of any effective personal protection setup. While plate carriers secure the plates in place, the plates themselves provide the ballistic resistance needed to stop bullets and reduce blunt force trauma.
Armor plates are made of various materials, with steel and ceramic being the most common. These materials are specifically engineered to absorb the impact of bullets and other projectiles. However, their performance depends on factors like composition, thickness, and level of certification.
Side plates like the stomach's sides can be added to cover areas for additional protection. Most armor plates also feature a slight curvature to improve ergonomics. Advanced options include multi-curve designs that enhance comfort, especially during prolonged use.
Steel Core Armor Plates
Steel core armor plates are popular for their durability and ability to handle multiple hits. Often made from AR500 or AR550 steel, these plates are incredibly hard and effective at stopping common rifle rounds. The "AR" in their name stands for abrasion resistance, while the number indicates the steel's hardness rating. AR550 plates are tougher than AR500 and can stop more penetrative rounds like M855 “Green Tips.”
One key benefit of steel plates is their longevity, as they can take more punishment than other materials. However, steel plates have their drawbacks. They are vulnerable to spalling or fragmentation, where a bullet’s impact causes fragments to ricochet outward.
Ceramic Composite Armor Plates
Ceramic-composite plates are another trusted option, especially for those prioritizing mobility and reduced weight. These plates are typically made from advanced ceramic and plastic composites. They allow for a thinner, lighter profile than steel.
Ceramic plates excel at stopping high-velocity rifle rounds. Their composition causes bullets to shatter upon impact, effectively dispersing the energy. However, ceramic plates can crack under repeated hits, which makes them less effective in scenarios where multiple impacts occur in the same area.
Despite this limitation, ceramic plates are ideal for those who value flexibility and ease of movement. They are a go-to option for tactical missions or situations where agility is important. Their lightweight design reduces fatigue and is a preferred choice for extended operations.
Plate Carriers and Proper Fit
While armor plates provide ballistic protection, their effectiveness depends heavily on the plate carrier holding them. A plate carrier is a vest that positions armor plates securely over vital organs. This guarantees that the protection stays where needed during movements.
Plate carriers are highly customizable and come in various designs, from tactical setups with gear attachments to minimalist designs for everyday wear. Most plate carriers are built to accommodate standard 10” x 12” plates, the size best suited for most users.
NIJ Protection Levels
The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) establishes the standards for body armor performance. NIJ-certified armor plates undergo rigorous testing to meet specific ballistic resistance levels.
● Level IIA, II, and IIIA plates protect against handgun threats, with increasing capability to stop rounds like 9mm, .357 Magnum, and .44 Magnum.
● Level III plates stop rifle rounds, including 7.62mm FMJ ammunition.
● Level IV plates provide the highest level of protection, capable of stopping .30cal steel core armor-piercing rounds.
Investing in the Right Gear
Armor plates are an investment in your safety. Hence, choosing the right combination of materials, designs, and NIJ-certified options guarantees you are prepared for any scenario.
Bulletproof Zone offers various armor plates, plate carriers, and bulletproof vests. Our collection includes NIJ-certified options, innovative comfort designs, and products made in the U.S. and Europe.
Explore our offerings or contact us for advice on selecting the right armor plates for your protection needs.