Here at Atomic Defense, our goal is to provide you with the highest quality bulletproof inserts for your needs. Whether you or your employees are police officers or law enforcement officers who need life-saving protection for every day on the job or you are a civilian who wants to be prepared for any sort of emergency, our bulletproof armor plates and insert-able panels are the right tool for saving your life.

Inserts Across Various NIJ Levels 

Body armor must comply with National Institute of Justice (NIJ) standards. NIJ standard 0101.06 describes multiple levels of body armor. Each level offers greater ballistic protection than the last. 

The NIJ considers how equipment responds to specific ammunition at different speeds. Soft body armor falls into NIJ Levels I, IIA, II and IIIA. Hard body armor is either NIJ Level III or IV. Atomic Defense offers both soft and hard body armor plates.

NIJ IIIA, III and IV Armor Plates

The Stand Alone armor plates available through Atomic Defense all hold certification for NIJ Level IIIA or higher. We believe Level IIIA is the lowest any customer should go if they want true ballistic protection. We test our bulletproof plates to meet and exceed the NIJ's expectations for IIIA, III and IV armor. The NIJ's expectations are:  

• Level IIIA: The highest level for soft body armor, IIIA equipment withstands 9 mm rounds at velocities between 1,430 fps and 1,500 fps. IIIA also stops .44 Magnum rounds traveling between 1,400 fps and 1,460 fps. 
• Level III: The first to protect against assault rifle rounds, conditioned Level III hard armor handles 7.62 mm FMJ, steel-jacketed bullets traveling at velocities between 2,750 fps and 2,810 fps. 
• Level IV: This level can withstand armor piercing (AP) .30 caliber rounds traveling between 2,850 and 2,910 fps. Level IV hard body armor is the highest level available. 

Here is a chart highlighting how our bulletproof plates hold up against various common weapons and calibers:

About Our Bulletproof Inserts

We don’t settle for slapping the bulletproof label on our products without extensive testing. We know the abilities of our panels and know that you’ll be satisfied with the level of protection they offer you. Our testers fire additional rounds into each bulletproof insert model to ensure performance that exceeds the NIJ's standards. Some of the specific guns and bullets our products can stop include:

• Common bullets used in Ar-15 and AK-47 type rifles
• Handguns up to .9mm, .357, .44 mag, .45 cal, .40 cal, and hollow-points
• Armor piercing and armor piercing incendiary rounds
• Rifles up to 5.56 NATO, 7.62 M80, 30-06, .30 M2 AP, .308

Even our least-expensive armor will stop 12 gauge slugs and buckshot. Our armor can stop hunting rifles, assault rifles, pistols, and high-powered sniper rifles. Our bulletproof panels are tested beyond NIJ standards and can block various pistol, assault rifle, and sniper rounds.

Whether you want to put one in your child’s backpack or use them in bulletproof vests for military use, we’re confident you’ll stay safe. Our high-quality bulletproof inserts are also lighter and more affordable than other inserts in the market, making them a great option for anyone looking to be prepared and have extra protection.

Benefits of Insert Plates and Panels

Like every piece of equipment we sell, our bulletproof hard body inserts provide reliable ballistic protection. What makes inserts unique is that they put you in control of your safety. Our plates are as versatile as they are durable, so use them in a way that fits the situation. 

Many customers use our ballistics plates with bulletproof plate carriers that feature numerous insert pockets. You can load your vest with more plates to prioritize protection or fewer plates in precise locations for greater mobility. You can also use these plates to line your backpack or purse with ballistics protection. Our strong, lightweight body armor inserts are ready to use in a way that works best for you.

About Our Company

Atomic Defense has been around since 2015, and our goal since our inception has been to provide our customers with affordable bulletproof options that outperform other options. Our team has over 30 years of combined experience in body armor and self-defense, so you know you’re getting the best.

We’re a small company in Fresno, CA, and to stay competitive, we focus on quality. We’re not a large corporation that can afford sub-par customer service. Instead, we’ll make sure you get exactly what you want. If you want bulletproof insert panels, check out our range of selections below.

Why Order Through Atomic Defense? 

As a small business, we go above and beyond to be the top source for soft and hard body armor plates. We send all of our equipment through extensive testing processes at our headquarters in Fresno, California, to ensure the equipment we provide is reliable under duress. Our customer service representatives will ensure you find what you need at a price that competes with any other outlet, plus free shipping. 

Browse Hard Body Armor Plates Online

Each body armor plate in the Atomic Defense is ready to perform against powerful weaponry. You can watch testing videos for all of our products or view paper certificates online — get in touch for further details. Browse our inserts and paltes for versatile equipment military operatives and police forces trust on the job. 

Armor Plates: Everything You Need to Know

Choosing the right armor plates can feel like a huge task. With so many options, materials, and technical terms, it’s easy to get lost. But at the end of the day, it comes down to one thing: finding the gear that will have your six when it matters most. This guide cuts through the noise to give you the straight facts. We’ll walk you through everything from protection levels and sizing to the great debate between steel, ceramic, and polyethylene armor.

Whether you're a law enforcement officer gearing up for duty, a civilian building a home defense kit, or a hunter looking for peace of mind in the backcountry, we’ve got you covered. We'll help you understand what you need so you can make a confident choice for yourself and your family. We want you to find the perfect ballistic plates for your needs.

The Three Critical First Questions

Before you dive into the sea of options, you need to answer three basic questions. Getting these right will narrow down your search and make sure you end up with armor that’s right for your body and your needs.

1. What Level of Protection Do I Need?

The most important question is about protection. What kind of threats are you realistically preparing for? The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) sets the standards for body armor in the United States, and their rating system is the best place to start.

Understanding the NIJ Levels (Level IIIA, III, "III+", and IV)

NIJ levels tell you what kind of bullets a plate is rated to stop. Here’s a simple breakdown of the most common types of plate armor levels:

• Level IIIA: This is the highest level for soft armor. It’s designed to stop common handgun rounds. You’ll usually find it in soft vests, but some hard armor plates are also rated to this level.

• Level III: This is the first level that protects against rifle rounds. A Level III armor plate is rated to stop 7.62x51mm M80 rounds the kind used in an M14 or AR-10. This is a great starting point for general-purpose rifle protection.
• Level III+: This isn't an official NIJ rating, but it’s a term the industry uses for armor body plates that meet the Level III standard and also defeat special threats like the M855 "green tip" round or M193 rounds. These rounds are known to penetrate some standard Level III plates. These "III+" plates offer a great middle ground between Level III and Level IV.
• Level IV: This is the highest rating for commercially available bulletproof armor plates. Level IV plates are designed to stop a single .30-06 M2 armor-piercing (AP) round. If you’re facing threats from armor-piercing bullets, this is the level you need.

The New NIJ 0101.07 Standard (HG2, RF1, RF2, RF3)

The NIJ recently updated its standards to be clearer and more relevant to modern threats. You’ll start seeing new labels on ballistics plate products. Here’s what they mean:

• HG2 (Handgun 2): This is the new standard for handgun protection, similar to the old Level IIIA.
• RF1 (Rifle 1): This category is a lot like the old Level III. It protects against common 7.62x51mm M80 rounds and also includes other common rounds like the M193. This is your new baseline for a rifle-rated ballistic plate.
• RF2 (Rifle 2): This is the new "III+" or intermediate threat level. An RF2 plate stops everything RF1 does, plus it’s specifically tested against the M855 "green tip" round with its steel penetrator core. For many people, this offers the best balance of protection and weight.
• RF3 (Rifle 3): This is the new top tier, replacing the Level IV standard. It protects against armor-piercing rifle rounds.

The takeaway is simple: think about the most likely threats you could face, and choose a protection level that meets or exceeds them.

2. What Size Plate Do I Need?

Armor only works if it covers what it’s supposed to protect. A plate that’s too small leaves your vital organs exposed, while one that’s too big will be heavy, clumsy, and get in the way of you moving or shouldering a rifle.

How to Properly Measure for Coverage

Getting the right fit is easy. All you need is a tape measure.

1. Width: Measure from the center of one nipple to the center of the other. That’s how wide your plate should be. You want to protect the heart and lungs, and this measurement ensures they’re covered.
2. Height: Find the soft spot at the top of your sternum, just below your neck (this is your sternal notch). From there, measure down to your navel (your belly button). You want the plate to sit high on your chest to protect your heart and major blood vessels, but not so low that it digs into your gut when you sit down.

Common Sizes (SAPI S-XL vs. 10x12")

You’ll see two common sizing systems for body armor plates: SAPI and 10x12".

• SAPI (Small Arms Protective Insert) Sizes: This is the system used by the U.S. military. It comes in sizes from Extra Small to Extra Large. If your measurements line up with a SAPI size, it’s a great option because it’s tailored to your body.
• 10x12" Plates: This is the most common size on the civilian market and is often called a "Large" or "Medium." A 10x12" plate fits most people well and is a safe bet if you’re of average build.

Don’t forget about side armor plates! If your plate carrier has pockets for them, these smaller plates offer extra protection for your ribs and internal organs. They are a great addition for a full ballistic plate set.

3. Is It Legal for Me to Own?

This is a common question, and the answer is simple for most people.

General Legality for US Citizens

Yes, it is legal for a U.S. citizen to own body armor. There are no federal laws that prevent law-abiding citizens from buying or possessing it. You don’t need a permit or a special license.

Felony Restrictions and State-Specific Laws

The one major exception is for people who have been convicted of a violent felony. Federal law prohibits them from purchasing or possessing body armor. Additionally, a few states have their own specific laws. For example, in Connecticut, you must buy armor in a face-to-face transaction.

Disclaimer: This is not legal advice. Always check your local and state laws before buying.

The Great Material Debate: Ceramic vs. Polyethylene vs. Steel

The material of an armored plate determines its weight, cost, and how it performs. There are three main materials used for ballistic armor plates, and each has its pros and cons.

Ceramic & Composite: The Modern, Balanced Choice

Ceramic plates are the modern standard for military and law enforcement professionals. They are made by layering a hard ceramic strike face over a composite backing, usually made of a material like polyethylene.

• Pros: Ceramic offers the best protection-to-weight ratio. It's the only material that can reliably stop armor-piercing rounds without weighing a ton. When a bullet hits the ceramic, it shatters the tip of the bullet and spreads its energy out over a wide area.
• Cons: The main downside is that ceramic is brittle. A hard drop can crack the plate, and you might not even see the damage. They are also more expensive than steel plates.

UHMWPE (Polyethylene): The Ultra-Lightweight Option

UHMWPE (Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene) is a space-age plastic that is incredibly strong for its weight. These plates are made by pressing multiple layers of it together under high heat.

• Pros: These are the lightest ballistic plates available. A UHMWPE plate can weigh half as much as a ceramic one, which makes a huge difference in comfort and mobility. They are also multi-hit capable and can float in water.
• Cons: Pure UHMWPE plates have a weakness against some steel-core rifle rounds, like the M855. The steel penetrator can move through the material more easily than a lead-core bullet.

Steel: The Heavy, Budget Option

Steel was one of the first materials used for modern armored plates, and it’s still around today because it’s cheap and durable.

• Pros: Steel plates are very affordable and can take a lot of punishment. They are extremely multi-hit capable and won't be damaged by being dropped or thrown around.
• Cons: Steel is incredibly heavy. A full set of steel plates can weigh over 20 pounds, which will slow you down and wear you out. The biggest danger, however, is spalling, or fragmentation. When a bullet hits a steel plate, it shatters, sending tiny, high-velocity metal fragments flying outward. Think of it like a splash in water, but with sharp metal. These fragments can hit your neck, chin, and arms, causing serious injury or death. While some companies add an anti-spall coating, it’s not a foolproof solution.

Reading the Fine Print: Key Features & Terminology

When you’re comparing plates, you’ll run into a lot of technical terms. Here’s what the most important ones mean for your plate ballistic protection.

NIJ Certified vs. "Tested To": The Gold Standard of Trust

• NIJ Certified: This means the armor plate has been officially tested and approved by the NIJ. It’s a guarantee of quality and performance. A certified plate has passed a rigorous process and is the gold standard of trust.
• "Tested To": This means a company had its plates tested by an independent lab to NIJ standards, but the plate isn't officially certified by the NIJ. While often perfectly fine, it doesn't carry the same weight as official certification.

Standalone (SA) vs. In-Conjunction-With (ICW)

• Standalone (SA): A standalone armor plate provides its full rated protection all by itself. You can put it in a plate carrier and you’re good to go. Most plates for civilians are standalone.
• In-Conjunction-With (ICW): An ICW plate needs a soft armor backer (like a Level IIIA vest) behind it to achieve its full protection level. This is common in military setups but less practical for most civilians.

Plate Curve & Cut: Ergonomics and Comfort

How a ballistic chest plate is shaped makes a big difference in how it feels.

• Single-Curve vs. Multi-Curve: A single-curve plate has one simple bend to wrap around your torso. A multi-curve plate has additional curves to better match the shape of a human body, making it much more comfortable for long-term wear.
• SAPI, Swimmer's, and Shooter's Cuts: These are different shapes for the top of the plate. A SAPI cut is the standard military style. A Shooter's Cut or Swimmer's Cut has more of the top corners cut away, which makes it easier to shoulder a rifle and move your arms. This is a great feature for active users. For female plate armor, multi-curve plates and swimmer's cuts can offer a much better and more comfortable fit.

Shelf Life, Care, and Country of Origin

• Shelf Life: Most ceramic and polyethylene plates have a shelf life of 5 to 7 years. After that, the materials can start to degrade and may not offer the same level of protection. Steel plates don't really have a shelf life, but their coatings can wear down over time.
• Care: Taking care of your ballistic plate armor is easy. Store your plates in a cool, dry place, lying flat if possible. Don’t leave them in a hot car for days. To clean them, just wipe them down with a damp cloth. Every so often, inspect them for any cracks, deep scratches, or damage, especially if you drop them.
• Country of Origin: Knowing where your plates are made can be an indicator of quality and a point of personal preference.

Practical Considerations for Real-World Use

Finally, let’s talk about what it’s really like to use armor plates.

• The Burden of Weight: Every ounce matters. Heavy armor makes you slower, more tired, and less effective. Lighter plates cost more, but the improvement in mobility and comfort is often worth it, especially if you plan on wearing your gear for a long time.
• Backface Deformation (BFD): When a bullet hits a plate, the armor flexes inward. This is called backface deformation. Think of it like someone punching the plate from the other side. Too much BFD can cause serious injury to your body even if the bullet is stopped. The NIJ standard allows for up to 44mm of BFD, but many modern plates perform much better.
• Multi-Hit Capabilities: Will your armor stop more than one round? Most plates can. But be aware that hits close together can compromise the armor.
• Concealability and Plate Thickness: If you need to conceal your armor, thickness matters. Thinner plates are easier to hide under clothing.

Armor Plates, Armour Plates, or Armored Plate?

Armor Plates is the correct and most common spelling in the United States. The term comes from the historical use of metal plates worn by knights and soldiers for protection. Today, "armor plates" refers to the modern ballistic inserts used in plate carriers to protect against bullets. While you might sometimes see the British spelling "armour," or terms like "plate armor" or "armored plate," they all refer to the same thing: life-saving protective gear.

Armor Plates for Sale at Atomic Defense

When you’re looking for armor plates for sale, you need a company you can trust. At Atomic Defense, we know that this isn't just gear it's a promise. It's the confidence to face a threat, the peace of mind to protect your family, and the tool that helps you come home safe.

We offer a wide selection of ballistic plates for sale from the best brands in the business. Whether you need lightweight polyethylene, balanced ceramics, or a complete ballistic plate set, we have you covered. We believe everyone deserves access to reliable protection, and our team is here to help you find the perfect armor plate for your needs and budget. We've got your back. Shop with Atomic Defense today.