WHAT IS LEVEL IV BODY ARMOR?
It is a classification of body armor set by the US National Institute of Justice (NIJ), a globally recognized standard for measuring the ballistic resistance of non-military body armor. The latest standard is NIJ-STD 0101.06, and Level 4 (officially 'Type IV') armor provides the highest level of protection. 'NIJ Certified' ensures that the Level IV plate is listed on the NIJ Compliant Products List (CPL), indicating compliance with or surpassing the NIJ's minimum performance requirements.
Nowadays, Level IV inserts, often composed of more poly-ceramic than steel, are inserted into specially adapted pockets in various gear, including plate carriers, bulletproof vests, chest rigs, and backpacks.
WHAT CAN LEVEL IV BODY ARMOR PROTECT AGAINST?
Concerning rifle rounds, it can withstand at least a single shot of a 10.8-gram (166-grain) 30-06 Springfield steel core traveling at 878 meters per second (+/- 9.1 m/s). It also provides protection against lesser ballistic threats as per Level III, Level IIIA, Level II, and Level IIA. Rounds more powerful than these, like .338 Lapua Magnum sniper bullets or .50 BMG machine gun ammo, can penetrate the Level 4 plate.
Proper loading into carriers and ensuring a correct fit on the body are essential for effective use.
HOW MUCH DOES LEVEL IV BODY ARMOR COST?
Prices range from slightly under 100 dollars for a decent quality torso plate to ten times that amount. A paired set of plates can cost from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the type and quantity of ballistic material, plate curvature, size, and cut.
HOW HEAVY IS LEVEL IV BODY ARMOR?
With advancements in material science and ballistic technologies, modern Level 4 torso plates weigh between approximately 4.5 lbs to over 8 pounds each.
CAN CIVILIANS BUY & WEAR LEVEL IV BODY ARMOR?
In the United States, it is legally permissible for individuals aged 18 and over, with no violent felony convictions, to purchase, own, and wear Level 4 armor in public, with some exceptions. Certain states have their own body armor laws, and the TSA prohibits wearing body armor inside airports or on commercial flights. Some manufacturers may restrict sales to military and law enforcement entities.
DOES LEVEL IV BODY ARMOR EXPIRE?
Yes, it does. Similar to regular clothing, the materials in the hard plate naturally degrade over time. The lifespan depends on the ballistic makeup, with ceramic armor generally lasting 5 to 10 years, while steel armor can endure up to two decades. Beyond the expiration date, the armor may not offer the same level of protection.
Maintenance, proper storage, and usage also influence the plate's longevity. Damage from heat, moisture, or bullets necessitates replacement.
FINISHING UP
Wearing Level 4 body armor is crucial for protection against armor-piercing bullets, whether for private citizens using hunting rifles or police officers responding to mass shootings. Explore the Bulletproof Zone Level IV Body Armor collection, benefiting from a price match guarantee, secure payment system, First Responder discounts, finance options, and free shipping on orders over $100 within the continental US. Share your experiences or questions about Level IV armor in the comments section below, military or not!
ANTI RIOT EQUIPMENT
POLICE BATON
MILITARY EQUIPMENT
