Whether you are military, law enforcement, or a security professional, it is important to know the difference between armor plate levels. NIJ Levels 3 and 4 armor plates provide the highest level of protection available. Here we will discuss what sets these two levels apart so that you can make an informed decision when purchasing an armor plate.
Level 3 Armor Plates
Level 3 Armor plates are designed to protect against high-velocity rifle rounds, such as 5.56x45mm NATO and 7.62x51mm NATO rounds. These plates are made from hard materials such as ceramic, steel, and polyethylene composites that are capable of stopping multiple rounds before they penetrate the body armor itself. Level 3 plates also feature a greater amount of coverage than Level 2 plates, which helps protect against fragmentation from high-powered rifle bullets.
Level 4 Armor Plates
Level 4 armor plates offer superior protection compared to Level 3 plates. They are designed to stop up to .30-06 Springfield centerfire rifle rounds with a single hit from any angle; this includes rounds such as .308 Winchester FMJ and .30-06 Springfield APM2 (Armor Piercing). This type of plate is much thicker than its Level 3 counterpart due to its increased weight, which means it can absorb more energy before penetration occurs. In addition, Level 4 plates typically feature additional layers of anti-spalling material to prevent fragments from ricocheting off the plate’s surface after being impacted by a round.
When selecting an armor plate for your needs, you must understand the differences between NIJ Levels 3 and 4 armor plates so that you can make an informed decision on which one best suits your particular situation. Level 3 plates offer excellent protection from high-velocity rifle rounds while also providing increased coverage compared to lower levels of body armor; however, if you require superior protection against .30-06 Springfield centerfire rifle rounds or larger calibers then a Level 4 plate may be the way to go. Regardless of your choice, remember that all body armor should be chosen based on your specific requirements for it to be effective in protecting you against harm’s way.
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