If you searched for "6x6 level 4 ballistic side plates," my quick pick is the Shellback Tactical Side Armor Plate Kit with Model 4S17 plates — available now at pivotalbodyarmor.com and ready to ship.
I recommend this kit because it bundles two American-made Model 4S17 plates with two Side Armor Plate Pockets, so you get a complete set without hunting for pouches. That matters when you need fast, reliable protection.
The Model 4S17 meets NIJ 0101.06 Level IV stand-alone rules, uses alumina ceramic with composite backing, offers multi-hit and edge-to-edge coverage, and carries a 10-year ballistic warranty. Each plate weighs about 2.5 lbs and is roughly 0.9–0.95 inches thick, fitting most cummerbund-style plate carrier setups.
Price is competitive: the kit lists at $329.99–$334.99 (MSRP $414.99) and shows in-stock status with Add to Cart. Note: armor sales are final and the item is ITAR controlled for U.S. buyers.
Key Takeaways
- Ready-to-wear kit: Plates plus PALS-compatible pouches included.
- Military-grade protection: NIJ 0101.06 Level IV, multi-hit ceramics.
- Good balance: 2.5 lb weight and single-curve cut for comfort.
- Value-priced: Current sale around $330 with MSRP savings.
- Warranty & trust: 10-year plate warranty; pouches have lifetime coverage.
- Purchase note: In-stock at pivotalbodyarmor.com; sales final and ITAR controlled.
Looking for 6x6 level 4 ballistic side plates? Start with the Shellback Tactical Model 4S17 kit for compact, rifle-rated side protection
My quick pick is the Shellback Tactical Model 4S17 Side Armor Plate Kit — a ready-to-ship set that gives you true rifle-rated flank coverage in one box.
Why it earns the pick: the Model 4S17 meets NIJ 0101.06 and works as a stand-alone armor system (no soft backer needed). It is multi-hit rated, offers edge-to-edge performance, and resists special threats like M855 and M855A1.
Build and fit matter: alumina ceramic over composite backing, wrapped in 1000D Cordura, made in the USA with a 10-year ballistic warranty. Each plate runs about 2.5 lbs and uses a single curve that plays well with common plate carriers and cummerbunds.
The kit ships with two PALS-compatible pockets so you can mount the set fast. Price check: $329.99–$334.99 at pivotalbodyarmor.com, in stock. Note: ITAR controlled and all sales final.
Quick spec comparison
| Feature | Model 4S17 | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Certification | NIJ 0101.06 | Stand-alone, multi-hit |
| Material | Alumina ceramic + composite | 1000D cover, Made in USA |
| Weight / Fit | ~2.5 lbs / single curve | Good mobility, cummerbund-ready |
| Kit | 2 plates + 2 pockets | PALS-compatible, lifetime pocket warranty |
Shellback Tactical 4S17 6x6 Side Plates: NIJ 0101.06 Level IV, American-made performance
For users who demand tested rifle defense in a compact package, the 4S17 proves that small armor can be serious armor.
Product specifics: The Model 4S17 is a 6"x6" plate that meets NIJ 0101.06 Level IV standards as a stand-alone, multi-hit armor plate. Each plate weighs about 2.5 lbs and measures roughly 0.9–0.95 inches thick. The single curve and full-cut profile maximize coverage and comfort on a cummerbund (it rides well during long shifts).
Materials and build: A hard alumina ceramic strike face bonds to a composite backing, then gets sealed under a 1000D Cordura cover. That construction gives true edge-to-edge protection and good durability in the field.
Unique features & trust signals: Tested against .30 Cal M2 AP, M855/M855A1, 7.62 variants and more, the 4S17 handles modern threats you’ll face. It’s Made in the USA, DEA hard armor protocol compliant, and backed by a 10-year ballistic warranty—details I check before I kit up.
- Proven rifle protection in a compact set
- Edge-to-edge ceramic + composite construction
- 10-year warranty and US manufacture
Complete side armor solution: Shellback Tactical Side Armor Plate Kit components and carrier fit
Open the box and you get a complete flank armor set: two American-made Model 4S17 armor plates and two dedicated Side Armor Plate Pockets that install fast.
What’s in the kit
The package contains two Model 4S17 ceramic armor plates (about 2.5 lbs each, ~0.9–0.95" thick) and two Shellback Tactical Side Armor Plate Pockets built from 500D nylon.
- Plates: alumina ceramic + composite backing, stand-alone multi-hit protection, edge-to-edge coverage, Made in USA, 10-year ballistic warranty.
- Pouches: PALS-compatible, fit both 6x6 and 6x8 plate options, top inner hook closure, self-locking straps, drain grommet, lifetime warranty.
Carrier compatibility
If your plate carrier uses a PALS-equipped cummerbund, this kit mounts without adapters. The pouches attach to standard webbing via two self-locking straps and tuck into common cummerbund pockets.
Practical details matter: the pockets accept a slightly larger insert later (6x8), so you can change plates without replacing pouches. The set ships ready-to-deploy, reducing fit guessing and downtime.
Bottom line: this product is a purchase-focused solution that pairs American-made armor plates with reliable mounting hardware—clear specs, clear warranties, and fast carrier fit.
6x6 level 4 ballistic side plates: choosing compact coverage for weight, mobility, and threat profile
When your mission needs speed, a compact rifle-rated flank insert can keep you agile without losing protection. I trust gear that saves ounces and adds survivability.
Weight and ergonomics
Each Model 4S17 runs about 2.5 lbs (so two add roughly 5 lbs to your loadout). That weight trades well for real rifle-rated protection while keeping mobility high.
The single-curve, full-cut profile hugs the ribs on a cummerbund-style plate carrier. That reduces hot spots and helps you move (carry, sit, and shoulder a rifle) without a bulky gait.
Threats addressed
NIJ 0101.06 Level IV means the set is rated to stop .30-06 M2 AP and is tested against common special threats like M855 and M855A1. Edge-to-edge ceramic + composite construction gives stand-alone, multi-hit defense for real-world rounds.
- Low-profile thickness (~0.9–0.95") keeps you from snagging on gear or doorways.
- Balanced set pairs with front/back armor for all-day wearability.
- Practical choice for patrols, entries, and training where weight and coverage both matter.
"Compact armor should protect without slowing you down."
Compare trusted brands: Shellback Tactical vs National Body Armor vs Tactical Scorpion Gear
Choosing the right flank kit comes down to proven testing, fit, and what’s in the box. I look first for clear NIJ certification, American manufacturing, and a warranty that holds up under duty use.
When to pick Shellback Tactical 4S17 for proven NIJ .06 and American-made assurance
Pick Shellback Tactical when you want a known quantity: NIJ 0101.06 compliance, Made in USA construction, DEA protocol alignment, and a documented 10-year ballistic warranty.
The 4S17 kit includes plates plus PALS-ready pouches, so your plate carrier goes from box to patrol fast. The kit is in stock at pivotalbodyarmor.com with a current price around $329.99–$334.99 (ITAR controlled; all sales final).
Considering National Body Armor and Tactical Scorpion Gear options for side plates and kits
National Body Armor and Tactical Scorpion Gear also sell tested Level IV solutions and full kits in common sizes (including smaller and full-cut formats). Many ship plates that drop into standard cummerbund pouches and match carrier ergonomics.
- Team buys: Compare warranty terms, availability, and whether pouches are included.
- Duty use: Verified Level IV performance and responsive customer service matter for law enforcement.
- Fit & comfort: Check plate curvature, total weight, and pouch design—small differences show up by hour four.
"I default to Shellback Tactical’s 4S17 for American-made assurance and NIJ .06 pedigree; then cross-check National Body Armor and Tactical Scorpion Gear for alternate formats or lead times."
Pricing, availability, and shipping from pivotalbodyarmor.com
Before you buy, check price and stock. The Shellback Tactical Model 4S17 kit lists at $329.99–$334.99 (MSRP $414.99) and currently shows in-stock with Add to Cart on pivotalbodyarmor.com. That matters if you need a quick refill for a team or a single set for patrol.
Price ranges and current stock status
Current price sits in the low $300s, reflecting the kit (two ceramic armor plates and two pouches). Availability can change fast on rifle-rated items, so place group orders together to lock inventory and simplify delivery.
U.S. shipping, lead times, and sales policy
Orders ship within the United States under ITAR restrictions; export is blocked and checkout will show lead times. All sales are final for this life-saving gear—measure your carrier and confirm fit before you complete an order.
Warranty and customer service for law enforcement and civilians
Warranty: the plates carry a 10-year ballistic warranty; the pouches have a lifetime warranty. Keep receipts and serial numbers for claims.
| Topic | Detail | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $329.99–$334.99 | MSRP $414.99 |
| Shipping | U.S. only, ITAR-controlled | Lead times at checkout |
| Warranty | 10-year (plates), lifetime (pouches) | Keep documentation |
- Order tips: If outfitting a unit, consolidate orders to protect stock and streamline delivery.
- Customer service: expect responsive help for order status and warranty claims—have your order number ready.
- Practical note: inspect ceramic armor after any impact and follow warranty guidance; keep reviews and test data handy for procurement records.
Conclusion
If you want compact, rifle-rated flank protection that ships ready-to-fit, this Shellback Tactical kit is a smart buy.
I trust this set because it bundles American-made Model 4S17 armor with PALS-ready pouches, letting you mount the plate inserts in minutes and get back to work. The kit delivers NIJ 0101.06 Level IV stand‑alone protection, multi‑hit durability, and tested defense against M855/M855A1 special threats.
Practical specifics: each plate runs about 2.5 lbs and sits near 0.9–0.95" thick with a single‑curve full cut for comfort and mobility. You get edge-to-edge coverage, a 10-year ballistic warranty, and a lifetime pouch warranty.
The current price is $329.99–$334.99 and the kit is in stock. Click here to buy the Shellback Tactical Side Armor Plate from pivotalbodyarmor.com today and lock in a ready-to-wear body armor solution before your next qual or deployment.
FAQ
Q: What makes the Shellback Tactical 4S17 side armor kit a good starting point for compact rifle-rated protection?
A: The 4S17 kit pairs NIJ 0101.06 rifle-rated performance with a compact footprint so you get proven stopping power in a small package. It’s American-made, offers edge-to-edge ceramic protection with a composite backing, and ships with pouches sized for common plate carriers. In short: high-threat mitigation with carrier compatibility and a reputable warranty.
Q: How heavy and bulky are these compact side plates in practice?
A: Expect each plate to weigh roughly 2.5 pounds and sit at about 0.9–0.95 inches thick. The single-curve profile improves ergonomics and helps balance weight when used with front and rear plates, so mobility stays reasonable for patrols or tactical movement.
Q: Do these plates stop common “special threats” like M855 or M855A1?
A: Yes. The alumina ceramic construction with composite backing is tested to defeat specific special threats, including M855/M855A1, in addition to certified armor-piercing rifle rounds under NIJ .06 protocols.
Q: How many hits can these plates take and do they require carrier backing?
A: The plates are multi-hit capable and designed to function stand-alone; however, using a quality plate carrier and proper pouches improves blunt trauma management and retention. We recommend pairing them with PALS-compatible cummerbunds or purpose-built side pouches.
Q: What exactly comes in a side armor plate kit?
A: A typical kit includes two compact rifle-rated plates and two matching side plate pouches sized for those dimensions. Some kits also bundle a warranty card and care instructions (always check the product listing for final contents).
Q: Are these plates legal for civilians to buy and own?
A: Yes—most U.S. states allow civilians to purchase and possess rifle-rated plates. There are exceptions for certain restricted professions or locales; always verify local law. Law enforcement agencies commonly use similar gear under policy and procurement rules.
Q: How does Shellback Tactical compare to National Body Armor or Tactical Scorpion Gear?
A: Shellback Tactical emphasizes American manufacturing, NIJ .06 certification, and a strong warranty track record. National Body Armor and Tactical Scorpion Gear also offer reputable options with different form factors and price points. Choose based on specific threat needs, weight tolerance, and carrier fit.
Q: What are the shipping and return policies for armor purchased from pivotalbodyarmor.com?
A: Armor sales are frequently final due to safety and liability, with lead times depending on stock. U.S. shipping is standard, but expedited options may be available. Check pivotalbodyarmor.com for current stock, exact lead times, and detailed return policies before ordering.
Q: Is there a warranty and how long does it last?
A: Many American-made plates carry a 10-year ballistic warranty against material and construction defects. Coverage specifics vary by manufacturer and product—keep your purchase receipt and warranty card and register the plate if required.
Q: Will these plates fit in my existing plate carrier?
A: Most modern carriers with side plate pouches accept compact dimensions like the ones described, and PALS-compatible cummerbunds are commonly used. Measure your pouch or consult the carrier’s specs to confirm fit for compact or slightly larger side plates.
Q: How should I care for and transport ceramic rifle plates to keep them serviceable?
A: Avoid dropping or striking the plate edge-on, store in a cool dry place, and keep the cover clean. Inspect plates for cracks or delamination after any impact and follow manufacturer guidance for service life and inspection intervals.
Q: Can I mix these compact plates with other manufacturers’ front or back plates?
A: Yes, mixing is common. Just ensure the dimensions, curve, and thickness work with your carrier and that the combined protection meets your threat assessment. Balance weight and ergonomics when pairing plates from different makers.