- Product Details
- Shipping and Returns
- The BPZ Promise
- Why Bulletproof Zone?
The HighCom Guardian RSTP Gen 2 is a ceramic/UHMWPE composite hard armor plate rated Level III+ Special Threat, designed for use in-conjunction-with (ICW) Level IIIA soft armor. Manufactured through HighCom's XTclave ultra-high pressure consolidation process, this SAPI multi-curve plate stops six rounds of 5.56x45 M855 Green Tip and has been independently tested at an NVLAP-accredited, NIJ-approved laboratory against NIJ Standard 0101.06 threat parameters. Available in five SAPI sizes from XS (7.25x11.5 in) through XL (11x14 in), with weights ranging from 2.7 lbs to 5.1 lbs per plate depending on size.
Who this is for
- Law enforcement officers: who require multi-hit capable rifle protection against common patrol threats including 5.56 M855, 7.62x39 MSC, and 7.62x54R in a SAPI-compatible platform
- Security professionals and armed contractors: who need a thin profile (0.75 in) ICW plate that integrates with existing soft armor systems without adding excessive bulk
- Tactical team members: who require a proven special threat plate capable of stopping six consecutive Green Tip impacts with a 5-year ballistic warranty behind it
Ballistic performance
The Guardian RSTP Gen 2 combines a ceramic strike face with a UHMWPE backing, consolidated under XTclave ultra-high pressure to produce a dense, consistent laminate that distributes and absorbs energy across its full face. The ceramic layer fractures and erodes the projectile on initial impact; the UHMWPE backing captures and arrests the deformed fragments. This construction supports multi-hit performance across a spread of impact locations.
This is an ICW plate. It is rated for use paired with a Level IIIA soft armor backer. Using this plate without a Level IIIA soft armor panel underneath will not achieve the tested threat coverage listed below. The plate stops six rounds of 5.56x45 M855 Green Tip — the most commonly cited Green Tip defeat capability at this plate weight and profile.
Independent ballistic test data
Tested at an NVLAP-accredited, NIJ-approved laboratory against NIJ Standard 0101.06 and special threat parameters. All tests conducted ICW Level IIIA soft armor.
| Protection Level | Weapon / Projectile | Grain | Velocity (ft/s) | Tolerance (ft/s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NIJ 0101.06 | 7.62mm FMJ Steel Jacketed (M80) | 143 | 2,780 | ±30 |
| Special Threat | 5.56x45mm M193 FMJ | 55 | 2,985 | ±50 |
| Special Threat | 7.62x54R LPS | 147 | 2,716 | ±98 |
| Special Threat | 7.62x39mm MSC (M43) | 123 | 2,296 | ±98 |
| Special Threat | 5.56x45mm M855 (Green Tip) | 62 | 3,018 | ±98 |
| Special Threat | 5.45x39mm MSC (7N6) | 53 | 3,000 | ±98 |
Plate compatibility and cut geometry
The RSTP Gen 2 is cut in SAPI profile with multi-curve geometry across all five sizes. SAPI cut plates fit the widest range of plate carrier pocket styles, including most carriers designed around the SAPI/ESAPI standard used by the US military and law enforcement. Multi-curve geometry means the plate follows both the vertical and horizontal contour of the torso simultaneously, reducing pressure points and improving fit against the body compared to single-curve alternatives at the same areal density.
The areal density is 4.85 psf (23.68 kg/m²) and the plate profile measures 0.75 in (18.90 mm) thick. Any plate carrier with a front or rear plate pocket sized to accept standard SAPI dimensions at the appropriate size tier will fit this plate. Contact us if you need help confirming carrier compatibility for a specific size.
Specifications
- Brand: HighCom Armor
- Model: Guardian RSTP Gen 2
- Protection level: Level III+ Special Threat ICW Level IIIA soft armor; independently tested to NIJ Standard 0101.06
- Material: Ceramic strike face with UHMWPE backing
- Manufacturing process: XTclave ultra-high pressure consolidation
- Exterior cover: 1000D Cordura textured nylon
- Cut: SAPI, multi-curve
- Sizes available: XS (7.25x11.5 in), S (8.75x11.75 in), M (9.5x12.5 in), L (10x13.25 in), XL (11x14 in)
- Weight by size: XS 2.7 lbs / 1.21 kg · S 3.3 lbs / 1.5 kg · M 3.8 lbs / 1.74 kg · L 4.4 lbs / 2.0 kg · XL 5.1 lbs / 2.29 kg
- Areal density: 4.85 psf / 23.68 kg/m²
- Thickness: 0.75 in / 18.90 mm
- Warranty: 5 years on all ballistic material; 1 year on exterior cover material and workmanship
- SKU: RSTPG2
Fit and carrier compatibility
The Guardian RSTP Gen 2 ships in five SAPI sizes — XS through XL — covering the full range of torso dimensions from smaller frames to larger builds. SAPI-cut plate pockets are the most widely used standard in the plate carrier market, so this plate integrates into the broadest possible selection of carriers without modification. The multi-curve profile adds a second axis of curvature that keeps the plate seated flush against the chest regardless of size, which is particularly noticeable in longer wear sessions. Confirm that your carrier's plate pocket depth can accommodate a 0.75 in plate profile before ordering; most modern tactical and duty carriers exceed this clearance without issue.
Frequently asked questions
What rounds does the RSTP Gen 2 stop?
Tested ICW Level IIIA soft armor, this plate stops 7.62mm FMJ M80 (NIJ 0101.06), 5.56x45 M193 at 2,985 fps, 5.56x45 M855 Green Tip at 3,018 fps, 7.62x39mm MSC M43 at 2,296 fps, 7.62x54R LPS at 2,716 fps, and 5.45x39mm MSC 7N6 at 3,000 fps. Multi-hit capable across all listed threats. These ratings apply only when the plate is used ICW a Level IIIA soft armor panel.
Is this plate NIJ Certified or NIJ Listed?
The RSTP Gen 2 has been independently tested at an NVLAP-accredited, NIJ-approved laboratory against NIJ Standard 0101.06 threat parameters. The Level III+ Special Threat designation is a vendor-specific rating that goes beyond the standard NIJ 0101.06 Level III threat set and is not itself a listed NIJ standard designation. For current NIJ Compliant Products List status, check the NIJ CPL directly at nij.ojp.gov.
What is the difference between Level III, Level III+, and Level IV?
NIJ Level III is a published standard that requires a plate to stop 7.62mm FMJ M80 at 2,780 fps. Level III+ is a vendor designation — not an official NIJ standard — indicating a plate stops threats that exceed the Level III test set, typically 5.56 M855 and M193 at higher velocities. Level IV is a published NIJ standard requiring the plate to stop .30 caliber AP M2 at 2,880 fps. The RSTP Gen 2 fills the gap between III and IV for common rifle threats encountered in the field.
Does this plate need a soft armor backer?
Yes. The RSTP Gen 2 is an ICW (in-conjunction-with) plate. All tested ballistic ratings apply only when this plate is used together with a Level IIIA soft armor panel. Running this plate standalone, without a IIIA backer, does not replicate the tested performance and is not the intended use configuration.
What is the difference between SAPI cut and Shooters cut?
SAPI (Small Arms Protective Insert) cut features more pronounced upper shoulder notches derived from military sizing standards, fitting carriers built around military-spec plate pockets. Shooters cut has shallower, more squared shoulder cuts that allow greater shoulder and arm mobility during shooting positions. The RSTP Gen 2 ships in SAPI cut only. If your carrier accepts SAPI plates, this plate fits directly without modification.
Can this plate be shipped to my state?
This plate cannot be shipped to New York or Connecticut due to state body armor restrictions. Under 18 U.S.C. § 931, anyone with a federal felony conviction for a crime of violence is prohibited from purchasing or possessing body armor. Sales are subject to US export regulations and are restricted to lawful US persons; no individual orders can be exported from the United States.
Bulletproof Zone will ship orders as soon as possible. For example, if you purchase three items, they will be shipped to you based on lead time and availability. This way you get as much of your order as soon as possible, which means that your order may come in separate packages, especially if you order products from different manufacturers.
We will bear the shipping cost for products returned because of product defect, misrepresentation, or false description. Afterward, we will initiate a full reimbursement should you decline an offer to replace the item with the same item of equal value and assured quality.
Order Confirmation:
As soon as you place your order with Bulletproof Zone, you will receive an order confirmation e-mail. This means that your order has been logged in our system and your credit card has been pre-authorized for the purchase. Afterward, we contact our suppliers to confirm the availability of the product you are ordering for immediate shipment. If your item is on backorder or unavailable, we will cancel the pre-authorization and duly inform you via e-mail.
Order Shipment:
Orders are shipped within five business days from the date of your order unless specified otherwise on the product page. The product page will contain the most accurate estimate on shipping and lead times. Shipping and lead times provided on the product page are our best estimates based various factors including order volume, information from our manufacturer, raw material fluctuations, etc., and may vary due to these factors.
You will receive an email containing the tracking information of your order after the order has been shipped to your location. If you do not receive tracking information from us within seven business days of the lead time specified on the product page, feel free to follow up with us at orders@bulletproofzone.com.
Bulletproof Zone is not responsible for lost or stolen packages. A tracking number will be provided when the package is shipped. It is the buyer’s responsibility to provide a safe place to receive mail. Once an item has been marked as delivered by the carrier, the seller is not responsible should that item go missing.
Some of our products are carried by manufacturers in various countries. Due to the nature and cost of the products that Bulletproof Zone sells, you may be charged additional import duties upon delivery. Our support team can help in investigating abnormally high import duty charges but we are unable to cover the cost of any import duties.
Damages:
We take full responsibility for any obvious damage to your product caused by wrong packaging or delivering an already defective product. Please inspect the packaging of your item(s) when they arrive, if you notice any damage, you should document it when signing for delivery. If the item(s) contained in the package arrives damaged, please send photos to support@bulletproofzone.com, and we will process an insurance claim on your behalf.
Returns and Cancellation Policy:
We back all our products with a customer satisfaction guarantee, so we created a fair return and cancellation policy.
All sales are final. No Refunds, No Cancellations. In most cases, once the order is processed, it is final and not cancellable. We may allow exceptions due to an order error or wish to return your order after delivery for any reason other than a product defect or misrepresentation. Any cancellation request is subject to an administration and cancellation fee equal to 10% of your order with a minimum of $35, whether order shipment is successful or not.
All sales are final on all closeout items and for custom manufactured bulletproof clothing once the manufacturing process has begun or not returnable unless there is a product defect or misrepresentation. Applicable to brands such as MC Armor, Israel Catalog, BulletBlocker, Tacticon Armament, Wonder Hoodie, and others.
Before returning any product, you MUST obtain a return authorization from our customer service representative. We can only process AUTHORIZED returns for items.
To make a Return or Exchange:
- Obtain authorization for return or exchange by emailing us at support@bulletproofzone.com explaining the reason for the return or exchange.
- Please use or indicate your order number as attention
Return or exchanges request submission must be within 14 calendar days upon receipt of shipment unless noted otherwise on the product description page. Your return must be in original packaging and unused.
We encourage using USPS flat-rate shipping in returning products to receive a shipping expense refund. Buyers must ensure all returned parcels delivery receipt AND signature confirmation. We highly recommend insuring your parcel as we cannot issue a refund for an item that we do not receive back should it get lost/damaged during transit.
Refunds:
Should an item be returned because it was defective, misrepresented, not as described, etc., Bulletproof Zone will issue a full refund and will reimburse the customer for all shipping expenses associated with the return.
Please allow 5-10 business days from the time the item is received to process a refund. Refunds will only be issued to the original credit card that you use when placing your order.
We stand behind our products 100%!
By purchasing any of our items, the buyer certifies they have read and agree to our shipping, return, and privacy policies.
The Bulletproof Zone Promise
When you buy body armor, you're buying your safety. We don't take that lightly. Here's what every order from Bulletproof Zone includes.
1. Authorized dealer of every brand we carry
Every plate, vest, and carrier we ship comes from the manufacturer directly to our warehouse. We don't sell gray-market product, surplus, or returns. That means factory-fresh stock, the full manufacturer warranty, and real after-sale support — the kind only an authorized dealer can offer.
We maintain authorized-dealer relationships with America's leading body armor brands, including Spartan Armor Systems, AR500 Armor, RMA Defense, Shellback Tactical, Caliber Armor, DFNDR Armor, Protection Group Denmark, BulletSafe, BulletBlocker, and over 40 more.
2. Best price, guaranteed
If you find a lower price at another authorized dealer of the same product within six months of your purchase, we'll refund the difference.
Why the "authorized dealer" requirement? Because gray-market and surplus armor may not be genuine, may have a compromised supply chain, and almost never comes with a manufacturer warranty. We won't price-match against products that may not actually protect you.
3. Free fitment consultation
Body armor only protects you if it fits. Email us a photo and your measurements before you order, and one of our specialists will help you size your carrier and plates correctly — at no charge, no obligation.
4. Trusted by thousands of customers
Bulletproof Zone has been a trusted authorized dealer of America's leading body armor manufacturers for over five years. We have over 4,000 verified Trustpilot reviews from real customers across all 50 states.
Price Match Guarantee — Terms
- You must have purchased the item from our website before requesting the price match.
- Discounted items and "free with purchase" items are not eligible.
- The item must be in stock on the competitor's website at the time of your request.
- The price match is valid for six months from the date of your purchase.
- The competitor must be an authorized dealer of the product. Auction sites (eBay, Overstock), discounters, and gray-market resellers do not qualify.
- The competitor must operate an online store. Brick-and-mortar-only retailers do not qualify.
- Price match applies to the item price plus shipping. Sales tax is excluded.
To request a price match, email us a link to the product on our site and the same product on the competitor's site within six months of purchase. We'll process the refund.
Why Bulletproof Zone?
At Bulletproof Zone, we are passionate about protecting lives. Every piece from our catalog is designed and rigorously tested to provide the highest quality of protection you need from firearms, explosives or even close quarters combat.
We’ve partnered with various manufacturers that operate within the United States under a strict set of guidelines both on a national and corporate level so that when you shop with us, you will be able to select from the highest quality body armor, ballistic plates and tactical gear available on the market.
Whether you are a military service member looking to find your own gear, a professional that operates in the security field, or an avid firearms enthusiast that capitalizes the importance of safety when shooting, our tactical gear will provide you the level of protection you need.
Any questions or concerns? Please call us at (408)-909-4938 or email us at support@bulletproofzone.com and a member of our professional support team will be in touch with you as soon as possible.
