Ballistic Plates · Level III+
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Lightweight Level 3+ ceramic rifle plates rated for special threats - M855 green tip and 7.62x39 - with multi-hit protection at under 5 lbs.
ARMOR SETS
What does Level 3+ body armor stop?
Level 3+ (a special-threat rating above NIJ Level III) stops 5.56 M193 at high velocity, M855 green tip penetrator rounds, and 7.62x51 M80 NATO ball, with multi-hit capability. Our RF2-rated plates cover the special threats that standard Level III can miss.
Will Level 3+ plates stop M855 green tip?
Yes - that is the defining test. M855 green tip has a partial steel core that can defeat plain Level III armor. Level 3+ plates are specifically built and tested to stop it, along with M193 and 7.62x39 threats.
Level 3+ vs Level 4 - what is the difference?
Level 3+ stops special rifle threats (M855, 7.62x39, M80) at 3.5-4.9 lbs per plate. Level 4 adds armor-piercing .30-06 M2 AP protection but weighs more and costs more. Most civilians and patrol officers are well served by 3+; choose our Level 4 armor plates when AP threats are realistic.
Will an AK-47 penetrate Level 3+ armor?
Standard 7.62x39 AK rounds, including mild steel core, are stopped by our Level 3+ special threat plates - we make a dedicated AK-47 special threat plate for exactly this. The high-pressure 7.62x54R from a Dragunov-class rifle requires Level 4.
What do RF1 and RF2 mean under NIJ 0101.07?
The new NIJ 0101.07 standard replaces Level III with RF1 (rifle threats up to M80 ball) and adds RF2, which includes the M855 special threats that the old Level 3+ label covered. Our RF1 and RF2 plates are named directly for the new standard, so you know exactly what is tested.
How much do Level 3+ plates weigh?
Our lightest RF2 special threat plate is about 3.5 lbs; most Level 3+ 10x12 plates run 4-5 lbs. That is roughly 2 lbs lighter per plate than Level 4 and less than half the weight of steel - lighter armor means faster movement and less fatigue.
Are Level 3+ plates multi-hit rated?
Yes. Level 3+ ceramic composite plates are tested to take up to six rounds of 7.62x51 M80 and multiple special-threat hits without penetration. Multi-hit capability is a key advantage over cheaper single-hit designs.
What is swimmers cut vs SAPI cut?
SAPI cut is the standard military profile with angled top corners for maximum chest coverage. Swimmers cut removes more of the upper corners for a greater range of arm motion at a small coverage cost. Most users should start with the standard 10x12 SAPI cut.
Are your Level 3+ plates standalone?
Yes - every Ace Link Level 3+ plate achieves its full rating standalone, with no soft armor backer needed. They also feature an integrated D3O trauma pad on select models to reduce back face deformation and felt impact.
Ceramic vs steel for Level 3+ plates?
Ceramic composite is lighter, stops rounds more efficiently, and does not produce spall - the bullet fragments that ricochet off steel plates and injure the wearer. Steel is cheaper but heavier and outdated. We build exclusively with ceramic and PE composites.
Can civilians own Level 3+ body armor?
Yes. Civilians in 49 of 50 states can legally purchase and own rifle plates; Connecticut requires in-person purchase, and convicted felons are prohibited. Check your local laws before ordering.
What is the difference between NIJ certified and NIJ tested?
NIJ certified models passed the official Compliance Testing Program and are on the Compliant Products List. NIJ tested means independent lab testing to meet or exceed the standard. Level 3+ itself is a special-threat rating, so look for RF2 testing under NIJ 0101.07.
