Ballistic Plates · Level IV
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Level IV ceramic armor plates independently tested to NIJ 0101.06. Standalone protection that stops .30-06 M2 AP armor-piercing rounds - built for plate carriers.
ARMOR SETS
What does Level 4 body armor stop?
Level IV is the highest NIJ protection level. Our Level 4 ceramic plates are rated to stop .30-06 M2 AP armor-piercing rounds, and they defeat lesser rifle threats like 5.56 M855, M193, and 7.62x51 M80 along the way. It is the armor to choose when rifle threats are on the table.
Will Level 4 plates stop armor-piercing rounds?
Yes - stopping armor-piercing ammunition is exactly what defines Level IV. Our plates are tested against .30-06 M2 AP (166-grain steel-core AP at ~2,880 fps) and also stop black-tip and green-tip 5.56 threats, with multi-hit capability.
Level 4 vs Level 3+ - which should I choose?
Level 4 stops armor-piercing .30-06 M2 AP but weighs more; Level 3+ stops special threats like M855 green tip and 7.62x39 at roughly 2 lbs less per plate. If you expect AP threats, choose Level 4. For lighter loadouts against common rifle rounds, see our Level 3+ armor plates.
What are Level 4 armor plates made of?
Ceramic composite - a hard ceramic strike face that shatters the incoming bullet, backed by polyethylene or aramid layers that catch fragments and absorb energy. We do not sell steel plates: steel is heavier, outdated, and produces dangerous spall when hit.
How much do Level 4 plates weigh?
Our single-curve Level 4 ceramic plate weighs about 6.9 lbs in the standard 10x12 SAPI cut with a slim 0.90-inch profile - far lighter than steel equivalents. Multi-curve versions add ergonomic shaping for the chest at a similar weight.
Are your Level 4 plates standalone or ICW?
Standalone. They achieve full Level IV protection on their own, with no soft armor backer required. ICW (In Conjunction With) plates only reach their rating when paired with a soft panel - always check this before buying any Level 4 plate.
Can civilians own Level 4 body armor?
Yes. Law-abiding adult civilians can legally buy and own Level 4 armor in 49 of 50 states; Connecticut requires an in-person purchase, and felons are prohibited federally. Always check your state and local laws before ordering.
Is ceramic Level 4 armor fragile?
No - ceramic is brittle by design, not fragile. The hard ceramic face must fracture to destroy an armor-piercing core, and modern plates are multi-hit tested. Treat plates with care, avoid drops on hard surfaces, and inspect after any significant impact.
What is the difference between NIJ certified and NIJ tested?
NIJ certified means the model passed the NIJ Compliance Testing Program and appears on the Compliant Products List. NIJ tested or rated means an independent lab verified it meets or exceeds the same standard without going through the official program.
What is back face deformation (BFD)?
BFD is the dent transmitted to the body side of the plate when it stops a round. The NIJ allows a maximum of 44 mm; less deformation means less blunt trauma. Our Level 4 plates stop rated threats while staying within the NIJ limit.
Does Level 4 body armor expire?
Hard armor has a service life - ours carry a 5-year manufacturer warranty. Ceramic composite easily outlasts soft armor when stored properly: keep plates dry, out of extreme heat, and supported flat or in a carrier, and inspect them after impacts.
Single-curve or multi-curve Level 4 plate?
Single-curve bends on one axis and suits flatter torsos at the best price. Multi-curve is shaped around the chest and shoulders for better comfort during long wear. Protection level is identical - choose by fit and budget.
