NIJ 0123.00 rates helmets HG1, HG2, and RF1 — not Level IV. Learn which ballistic helmet rating matches your threat, material, and weight budget in 2026.
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These 7 body armor buying mistakes can be fatal: wrong NIJ certification, expired soft armor, mismatched threat levels, steel spall risk, and more. Full 2026 guide.
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Standalone plates work alone. ICW plates require a IIIA backer — skip it and backface deformation exceeds 44mm. 2026 guide: 7 FAQs, weight tables, expert picks.
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6x6 vs 6x8, ceramic vs poly, cummerbund fit: everything you need to choose side plates that actually protect the lateral cardiac gap. Updated May 2026.
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Single-curve plates cost $135–$160 and suit wear under 2 hours. Multi-curve plates ($230–$450) contour both axes for all-day duty use. Same NIJ ballistic rating either way.
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UHMWPE plates weigh 3–4.5 lbs and resist water — ceramic stops AP rounds — steel costs least but needs spall liner. Compare all three and buy right.
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