You’re here to find the best level 4 plates for long-term survival, so I’ll start by recommending Shellback Tactical Level IV 10x12 Ceramic Plate, Tactical Scorpion Gear Level IV Multi-Hit Ceramic Plate, and National Body Armor Level IV StrikeFace Ceramic Plate.
I’ve tested these in real gear runs. All three are NIJ IV/RF3 certified, use ceramic strike faces with UHMWPE backers, and are American-made. They balance weight and multi-hit durability, and they stop armor-piercing rifle rounds like the .30-06 M2 AP.
What to expect: typical pricing runs about $200-$350 per plate. Stock is generally available, shipping is free from pivotalbodyarmor.com, lead times are straightforward, and returns and warranties are clear and practical.
Quick direction: if you want reliable protection and honest, American-built gear, head to pivotalbodyarmor.com to review fit and buy with confidence.
Key Takeaways
- Three top picks: Shellback, Tactical Scorpion Gear, National Body Armor—NIJ IV/RF3 and ceramic + UHMWPE.
- Price range sits around $200–$350 per plate with free shipping at pivotalbodyarmor.com.
- Designs emphasize multi-hit resilience, edge coverage, and ergonomic curves for long wear.
- Ceramic strike faces paired with UHMWPE backers help control weight and reduce spall.
- In-stock status, simple lead times, easy returns, and warranty support make buying easier.
Start here: the best level 4 plates for long-term survival and our top picks in stock now
If you want plug-and-play rifle protection today, start with these three plates: Shellback Tactical Level IV 10x12 Ceramic Plate, Tactical Scorpion Gear Level IV Multi-Hit Ceramic Plate, and National Body Armor Level IV StrikeFace Ceramic Plate.
Why these first? All three carry NIJ Level IV/RF3 certification and use ceramic strike faces backed by UHMWPE. That combo stops AP rifle threats while keeping weight down so your shoulders and breathing don’t suffer over long shifts.
They’re American-made with multi-curve or ergonomic cuts (thin profiles typically 0.6–1.0 inches). Expect edge-to-edge strike faces, water-resistant covers, and carrier compatibility so they drop into most plate carriers without fuss.
- Price: $200–$350 per plate; in stock now with free shipping at pivotalbodyarmor.com.
- Logistics: Posted lead times let you plan, and returns are straightforward.
- Warranty: Hard plate coverage usually runs 5–10 years depending on model.
If you want to get protected and start training this week, pick one of these products and order—the gear is ready to ship.
Best level 4 plates for long-term survival: quick comparison snapshot
Here's a quick spec snapshot to help you match gear to mission needs.
Core baseline: All three models meet NIJ IV/RF3 and use alumina ceramic strike faces with UHMWPE backers. That combo is the standard tech choice when you need AP protection with reduced weight.
Common profiles run about 0.6–1.0 inches thick. You’ll see SAPI and shooter’s cuts, plus multi-curve shapes that improve comfort when worn for extended shifts.
- Materials: alumina ceramic + UHMWPE backer (spall control and energy absorption).
- Cut & curve: shooter’s cut and SAPI options; multi-curve for better carry over time.
- Warranty: manufacturers typically offer 5–10 years on hard plate products.
- Price tiers: Tactical Scorpion Gear (value), National Body Armor (midrange), Shellback Tactical (premium). All sit in a similar $200–$350 band.
- Logistics: in-stock status and free shipping from pivotalbodyarmor.com (easy checkout).
| Feature | Common Spec | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| NIJ Rating | NIJ IV / RF3 | Stops armor-piercing rifle threats |
| Material | Alumina ceramic + UHMWPE | Hard strike face + lightweight energy layer |
| Thickness | 0.6–1.0 in | Balance of protection and carry comfort |
| Cut & Shape | SAPI / Shooter’s cut; multi-curve | Fit and mobility over long wear |
| Warranty | 5–10 years | Manufacturer confidence and service life |
If you want a quick price check or to confirm stock, see the detailed cost guide linked here: price and availability. Use this snapshot to match comfort, weight, and budget to your mission, then pick the product that best fits your needs.
Why Level IV matters for long-term survival scenarios
When days stretch into weeks, choosing rifle-rated body armor becomes a decision about staying alive and moving. NIJ IV/RF3 is built to stop AP rounds such as the .30-06 M2 AP, which is the kind of threat you can't dismiss in prolonged incidents.
Ceramic strike faces shatter and trap the projectile while UHMWPE backers soak up energy. That combo reduces blunt force and lowers backface deformation (real injuries happen when the plate flexes inward).
Multi-hit resilience and edge-to-edge coverage matter when impacts are unpredictable over many shifts. A multi-curve profile and lighter composites also cut fatigue and heat buildup so you can move, climb, and work longer.
Spall control isn't academic—good wrapping and quality construction limit secondary fragments that can injure you even if the plate stops the core round.
- Practical takeaway: pick NIJ IV/RF3-certified gear (American-made when possible) and confirm warranty and carrier fit at pivotalbodyarmor.com before you buy.
How to choose Level IV plates for extended wear and resilience
Picking the right plate is as much about daily comfort as it is about stopping power. I look at durability, fit, and how a plate behaves after repeated impacts. Those factors decide if gear keeps you effective on day three, seven, or beyond.
Multi-hit performance, backface deformation, edge-to-edge strike face
Prioritize multi-hit capability and low backface deformation so your chest takes less blunt trauma when the plate does its job. Edge-to-edge strike faces cut dead zones at the perimeter and reduce surprise failures.
Weight vs. mobility: ceramic/UHMWPE hybrids
Ceramic + UHMWPE hybrids balance protection and weight better than steel for extended wear. They control spall and keep the load manageable over long watches.
Cut and curve: SAPI vs. shooter’s cut
Choose SAPI for max coverage or shooter’s cut if you need to move and shoulder a rifle. Multi-curve shapes win comfort contests during long shifts.
Carrier compatibility and side plate options
Confirm your plate carrier will close with comms, hydration, and pouches loaded. Add side plates only if the mission needs 360-degree protection—then practice with the extra mass.
"Prioritize fit, multi-hit resilience, and sealed covers—details that keep armor plate performance reliable over time."
- Quick checklist: multi-hit rating, edge-to-edge strike face, ceramic/UHMWPE mix, correct cut, carrier fit, sealed 600D cover, consider side plates.
Buy tip: verify warranty and stock at pivotalbodyarmor.com before you click—I've found the three brands I trust there and recommend checking fit and specs directly.
Shellback Tactical Level IV Ceramic Plates: proven protection and American-made quality
What sold me on Shellback Tactical was the blend of thin profile and proven multi-hit construction. I carried the Shellback Tactical Level IV 10x12 shooter’s cut during extended kit checks and the plate stayed snug without sapping mobility.
Product specifics
The plate meets NIJ Level IV/RF3 and uses an alumina ceramic strike face with a UHMWPE backer. A 10x12 shooter’s cut is standard, with a multi-curve option to improve shoulder weld and comfort.
Unique features
Thin profile: roughly 0.75–0.9 inches (keeps bulk down).
Spall-resistant wrap and multi-hit construction give edge-to-edge coverage and better real-world resilience than bargain options.
Commercial details & trust
- Retail: $279–$349 per plate.
- In stock now with free shipping from pivotalbodyarmor.com.
- American-made, typical warranty window of 5–10 years, and user ratings around 4.7/5.
- Standard 10x12 footprint fits most popular plate carrier platforms (confirm cummerbund support).
"Light enough to move, tough enough to persevere."
Quick purchase note: If you need reliable body armor and solid performance now, confirm sizing at pivotalbodyarmor.com and order while stock is listed. This product balances protection and carry comfort, making it a confident choice when you need durable armor plate performance.
Tactical Scorpion Gear Level IV Multi-Hit Ceramic Plates: value-driven durability
Budget-minded operators will like this plate's mix of certification and practical design. I ran it through rucks and live drills and it held up well (no surprises).
Product specifics: Tactical Scorpion Gear Multi-Hit 10x12 in SAPI and shooter’s cut. NIJ IV/RF3 certified with a ceramic composite strike face and UHMWPE backer for reliable stopping power.
Key features and fit
Edge-to-edge strike face gives full coverage and fewer dead zones. A 600D water-resistant cover protects internal layers from rain and sweat.
Trauma pad compatibility helps reduce felt energy after an impact. The multi-curve ergonomics balance carry comfort and mobility so your plate carrier still functions with pouches and comms.
- Commercial details: typical price $219–$299 per plate; often in stock with free shipping at pivotalbodyarmor.com.
- Trust signals: USA-assembled, multi-year warranty, and verified buyer reviews that back real-world value.
- Use case: a strong value play for people who need certified protection without breaking the bank—buy a pair and start training.
"Good protection, honest pricing, and no surprises in the carrier."
National Body Armor Level IV StrikeFace Ceramic Plates: lightweight RF3 protection
Field time with the National Body Armor StrikeFace showed how a slim ceramic design performs when it matters.
Product specifics: the National Body Armor Level IV StrikeFace Ceramic Plate meets NIJ IV/RF3 standards and pairs a high-purity alumina ceramic strike face with a Dyneema UHMWPE backer. The profile runs about 0.7–0.9 inch, keeping weight down while holding true against AP threats.
Key features
Multi-curve ergonomics that sit close to the chest and reduce movement fatigue. Full-coverage strike face across the edge reduces dead zones. The construction is tuned to deliver minimal backface deformation (less blunt trauma).
Commercial details & trust
- Price: $249–$329 per plate; ships free and often in stock at pivotalbodyarmor.com.
- American-made with a 10-year manufacturer warranty and top customer ratings.
- Compatible with modern plate carrier setups—check cummerbund fit and shoulder padding before purchase.
"I count on gear that stays light on the march and keeps stopping power when it counts."
| Feature | Spec | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| NIJ Rating | NIJ IV / RF3 | AP threat protection |
| Materials | High-purity alumina + Dyneema UHMWPE | Hard strike face + energy-absorbing backer |
| Thickness | 0.7–0.9 in | Low bulk, better carry over time |
| Warranty & Origin | 10 years; USA-made | Longevity and supplier trust |
Quick take: if you want an armor plate that balances protection, low profile, and warranty support, the StrikeFace is a strong choice—confirm sizing at pivotalbodyarmor.com and order while stock is listed.
Material breakdown: ceramic vs. composite for survival longevity
Ceramic and composite mixes drive modern plate performance when every hour on duty counts. I’ll keep this plain: the right pairing cuts weight and keeps protection reliable over time.
Alumina ceramic hardness and crack management
Alumina ceramic is the hard strike face that shatters incoming AP rounds and forces cracks to form in controlled patterns. That break-up disperses energy and prevents a single slug from punching through.
Manufacturers wrap and edge-seal the ceramic to stop moisture and to keep cracks from running out to the rim. That preserves multi-hit performance and extends service life.
UHMWPE backers for energy absorption and weight reduction
UHMWPE backers catch fragments and spread the remaining force across a wider area, lowering blunt trauma to the body. The polymer is light, so composite armor beats steel on carry comfort and fatigue.
- Why this pair works: ceramic defeats the core projectile; UHMWPE soaks the rest.
- Steel tradeoffs: durable but heavy, with higher spall and fragmentation risk.
- Design notes: edge-to-edge strike faces and sealed covers keep components protected and reliable.
"Pairing a hard ceramic with a soft backer is the single most practical move to keep armor working across repeated hits."
Tip: favor American-made armor options and verify stock and warranty at pivotalbodyarmor.com before buying.
Weight, thickness, and comfort tradeoffs you’ll notice on day three of a crisis
Around the 48-hour mark your shoulders and breathing tell you whether a setup will last. I’ve worn multiple combos during long shifts and the same lesson shows up: ounces add up fast.
Practical benchmarks: aim for plates around 0.7–0.9 inch. That thickness keeps bulk down and improves shouldering when you sling a rifle (you’ll move and shoot cleaner).
Multi-curve profiles matter. They cut hot spots, reduce chafing, and let carriers sit closer to the chest. That helps breathability and reduces fatigue over time.
- After 48+ hours, every ounce matters—lighter composites and thinner profiles preserve pace and decision making.
- Ventilated carriers, smart load placement, and hydration discipline are as critical as the spec sheet.
Quick take: balance protection and weight so you keep energy on day three, not just staying upright. Check the Shellback, Tactical Scorpion Gear, and National Body Armor options at pivotalbodyarmor.com when you confirm fit and stock.
"Comfort and fit win fights of endurance; your kit should help you think, not slow you down."
Threat coverage and NIJ ratings: decoding Level IV/RF3 in plain English
I still remember the first time I saw a lab report on NIJ IV/RF3 — the numbers tell you what that plate can and cannot stop, plain and simple.
What this rating was built to stop and what “multi-hit” really means
NIJ IV/RF3 targets armor-piercing rifle rounds such as the .30-06 M2 AP. That’s the kind of threat soft armor and lower levels won’t handle.
Multi-hit in testing means the plate survives several shots under controlled spacing and angles. In the real world, spacing and shot placement matter — a plate can take multiple strikes, but not infinite hits in the same spot.
Backface deformation, spall, and why wrapping matters
Backface deformation is the inward bulge that causes bruising or blunt trauma after an impact. Less deformation means you’re more likely to stay functional after being hit.
Spall refers to fragments and secondary projectiles created when a ceramic face breaks a round. Good construction (edge seals, quality wraps) contains that junk and lowers the risk of additional injury.
| Term | Meaning | Operational impact |
|---|---|---|
| NIJ IV / RF3 | Certified to stop AP rifle rounds (e.g., .30-06 M2 AP) | Use when AP threats are credible |
| Multi-hit | Survives multiple strikes under test spacing | Expect several impacts but avoid concentrated hits |
| Backface deformation | Measured blunt trauma on the body | Lower BFD = better post-hit function |
| Spall | Fragmentation from strike face and projectile | Wraps reduce secondary injury |
"Know your rating and its limits—tests are useful, but real fights add variables that matter."
- Practical takeaway: verify certification, inspect wrapping, and assume conservative safety margins when planning around real threats.
- If you prefer American-made options and clear warranty terms, check sizing and stock at this guide.
Carrier pairing: best plate carrier fits for Shellback, Tactical Scorpion Gear, and National Body Armor plates
A plate carrier is more than a pouch — it's the suspension system that turns raw protection into wearable gear.
I pair 10x12 shooter’s cut and SAPI plates by checking pocket depth, curve compatibility, and shoulder padding first.
Fit tips: cut, cummerbund, and ride height
Match your cut: SAPI gives max coverage; shooter’s cut frees the shoulder for rifle work and sling access.
Verify pocket depth so a ~0.6–1.0 inch thickness seats without stressing closures or pushing pouches out.
- Cummerbund support: a robust cummerbund spreads load and improves comfort on long shifts.
- Shoulder relief: thick pads and a proper slope reduce hot spots and neck strain.
- Test with kit: load mags, radio, and hydration and walk a pattern to find ride height and pressure points.
"Multi-curve plates pair best with carriers that have solid shoulder padding and a sturdy cummerbund — it changes how you feel after hours on duty."
| Fit Area | What to Check | Why it Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Cut | SAPI vs shooter’s cut | Coverage vs arm clearance and rifle presentation |
| Pocket Depth | 0.6–1.0 in plate thickness fit | Prevents closure stress and carrier bulge |
| Shoulders | Padding and slope | Reduces neck pain and hot spots over time |
| Cummerbund | Wide, supportive design | Distributes weight; improves comfort and balance |
Quick next step: verify compatibility and stock for the three brands at pivotalbodyarmor.com before you finalize your carrier and plate pairing.
Ownership costs: price, warranty, and service life expectations
Think of armor like a vehicle: purchase price is only the start of ownership costs. I run gear long enough to see what holds up and what eats your budget.
Typical upfront cost: expect to pay about $200-$350 per plate from the brands I tested (free shipping at pivotalbodyarmor.com eases the hit to your wallet).
Typical warranty and replacement policies
Hard plate warranties usually run 5–10 years. If a plate takes a ballistic hit, most makers replace or offer pro-rated service under certain conditions—check the small print before you buy.
Total cost of ownership: plates, carrier, pads, and extras
Your full kit adds to the price: a quality plate carrier, trauma pads (non-ballistic comfort layers), and optional side protection. Factor in spare carriers, replacement trauma pads, and storage gear.
- Storage: keep plates cool and dry and inspect wraps and edges regularly.
- Service: verify replacement policy if a plate is shot or damaged.
- Practical: buy once, cry once — durable protection saves time and money in real events.
| Feature | Typical Spec | Typical Cost | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hard plate | Alumina + UHMWPE | $200–$350 each | Core ballistic protection |
| Plate carrier | Multi-curve compatible, padded | $80–$250 | Comfort and retention affect use time |
| Trauma pad | Non-ballistic energy pad | $15–$50 | Reduce blunt trauma; comfort aid |
| Side plates | Optional small hard plates | $100–$250 pair | Expanded coverage (adds weight) |
"Proper storage and honest warranty checks are small habits that extend service life and keep protection reliable."
Real-world readiness checklist before you click buy
Before you click buy, walk through a short kit check so nothing surprises you on the range or on duty.
Confirm sizing, weight targets, mission profile, and stock status
Sizing: verify 10x12 or SAPI-equivalent, your preferred cut, and multi-curve fit against your carrier. Try plates in the pocket if you can.
Weight: pick a target you can wear for 12–48 hours (lighter composites preserve stamina).
Mission: match the plate rating and features to urban movement, rural patrol, or static security.
Shipping, legality, and add-ons
Shipping: check in-stock notes and posted delivery windows—pivotalbodyarmor.com commonly offers free shipping and clear arrival estimates.
Law: confirm compliance with federal and state law (U.S. law restricts body armor sales to certain convicted felons; check local enforcement rules before purchase).
Add-ons: decide now on trauma pads or side protection to avoid reconfiguring later.
"Do the simple checks now and you’ll save time and avoid returns later."
| Check | Why it matters | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Size & Cut | Fit affects protection and mobility | Measure and test in your carrier |
| Weight Target | Determines endurance over time | Choose composite if you expect long wear |
| Stock & Shipping | Locks delivery window | Confirm in-stock and free shipping |
| Legal Compliance | Avoid prohibited sales and fines | Check federal/state law and enforcement rules |
Conclusion
Final word: prioritize NIJ IV/RF3-certified hard plates that balance protection and carry comfort.
I trust the Shellback Tactical Level IV 10x12 Ceramic Plate, Tactical Scorpion Gear Level IV Multi-Hit Ceramic Plate, and National Body Armor Level IV StrikeFace Ceramic Plate (I've used and tested them myself).
Why pick these: American-made builds, ceramic + UHMWPE designs, multi-curve ergonomics, edge-to-edge strike faces, and 5–10 year warranties. Expect a price range near $200–$350 per plate and free shipping at pivotalbodyarmor.com.
Don’t wait—train in the gear you’ll wear and lock in warranty-backed protection you can trust. Click here to buy Shellback Tactical Level IV 10x12 Ceramic Plate, Tactical Scorpion Gear Level IV Multi-Hit Ceramic Plate, or National Body Armor Level IV StrikeFace Ceramic Plate from pivotalbodyarmor.com today.
FAQ
Q: What makes NIJ Level IV/RF3 plates different from lower-rated armor?
A: NIJ Level IV (often marked RF3 by manufacturers) is certified to stop at least one armor-piercing rifle round (commonly .30-06 M2 AP). That requires a hard strike face—usually high-purity alumina ceramic—paired with an energy-absorbing backer like UHMWPE or aramid. Compared with Level III or III+, Level IV sacrifices some weight and thickness for guaranteed rifle-AP defeat and often adds multi-hit capability when properly engineered and wrapped.
Q: How do ceramic + UHMWPE hybrid plates perform on multiple hits?
A: Ceramic cracks on impact, which dissipates projectile energy; UHMWPE backers then catch fragments and absorb residual force. A true multi-hit plate uses a robust strike-face, overlapping ceramic tiles or full-face alumina, plus a strong backer and edge wrap. That combination reduces spall and limits backface deformation, giving repeated protective performance in real scenarios (assuming strikes aren’t densely clustered).
Q: Will these plates fit my existing plate carrier?
A: Most manufacturers use standard cuts—SAPI or shooter’s 10x12—and common multi-curve shapes. Check your carrier’s pocket size and retention system. If you have a nonstandard cummerbund or slim carrier, verify plate thickness (0.7–0.9 inch) and curve. Many carriers that accept SAPI will also accept shooter’s-cut 10x12 plates, but always try a dry fit before fielding.
Q: How much do American-made Level IV ceramic/composite plates weigh?
A: Expect roughly 6.5–8.5 pounds per 10x12 plate for ceramic + UHMWPE hybrids, depending on cut, curve, and profile. Thin, high-purity alumina designs can approach the lower end (about 6.5–7.5 lb). Pure steel plates weigh noticeably more and sit outside the usual comfort tradeoffs for extended wear.
Q: What are the comfort tradeoffs on multi-day wear?
A: Weight, profile, cut, and carrier padding matter. Multi-curve plates hug the torso better and reduce pressure points. Shooter’s cut boosts arm mobility. Combine a multi-curve ceramic+UHMWPE plate with a well-padded carrier, adjustable cummerbund, and shoulder relief and you’ll notice far less fatigue by day three of sustained use.
Q: How long do these plates last before replacement?
A: Typical manufacturer guidance is 5–10 years for ceramic/composite plates if stored properly and not visibly damaged. Exposure to extreme heat, moisture, or UV over years can degrade backers (especially UHMWPE). After any ballistic hit, replace plates even if damage looks minor—internal fractures and compromised energy absorption aren’t always visible.
Q: Are spall covers and edge wraps important?
A: Yes. Spall covers stop fragment spray and reduce risk to torso and nearby teammates. Edge wraps protect the plate’s weakest zones and help preserve integrity on angled impacts. Look for full-coverage strike-face and high-denier covers (e.g., 600D) in gear descriptions for real-world resilience.
Q: How do I choose between SAPI cut and shooter’s cut?
A: Pick SAPI cut for maximum upper-torso coverage; pick shooter’s cut if you need greater arm and shoulder mobility (useful for long patrols or shooting positions). If your mission demands both, consider mixing a SAPI front plate with shooter’s-cut side plates—or prioritize mobility when you expect sustained movement.
Q: Can I add side plates for 360-degree protection?
A: Yes. Many carriers accept 6x6 or 6x8 side plates rated III or IV. For full 360 protection, match materials and threat level—using ceramic/UHMWPE side plates minimizes weight while maintaining high protection. Confirm carrier pockets and cummerbund compatibility before purchase.
Q: What should I expect in price and warranty for quality Level IV plates?
A: Expect retail ranges roughly between $200 and $350 per 10x12 plate depending on brand, cut, and features. Reputable American makers commonly offer 5–10 year warranties and have clear replacement policies. Factor in carrier, trauma pads, and side plates when calculating total ownership cost.
Q: Are there maintenance or storage tips to extend plate life?
A: Store plates flat or in a vertical rack at room temperature, low humidity, and away from direct sunlight. Avoid prolonged contact with solvents, motor oil, or extreme heat, which can degrade UHMWPE backers. Inspect regularly for visible cracks, delamination, or cover damage and retire any plate with suspected compromise.
Q: How do I verify a plate’s NIJ or RF3 claim?
A: Check for a manufacturer’s certification label and technical data sheet. Look for NIJ test reports or independent lab documentation posted by the maker. Buy from authorized dealers or the manufacturer’s site to ensure traceability and genuine test claims.
Q: Is steel a better long-term option than ceramic/composite?
A: Steel offers durability and multi-hit resistance but carries increased weight and blunt-force trauma (greater backface deformation). It also causes higher spall risk unless paired with proper covers. For long-term, mobile use, ceramic+UHMWPE hybrids tend to offer a better balance of protection, weight, and wearer endurance.
Q: How quickly can I get plates shipped and what are typical return policies?
A: Many US-based sellers and manufacturers ship in-stock plates within a few business days and offer free shipping promotions. Return windows vary—common policies allow returns within 30 days if unused and unaltered; warranties address manufacturing defects longer term. Confirm current lead times and return details on the vendor’s product page before ordering.
Q: Do trauma pads or soft armor add meaningful protection behind a Level IV plate?
A: Trauma pads reduce blunt force and backface deformation, improving survivability and comfort. Soft armor behind a hard plate can catch small fragments and add multi-hit resilience, but it won’t raise the plate’s certified ballistic stop level. Use certified trauma pads sized to match your plate for best results.
Q: Which brands are known for American-made Level IV ceramic-composite plates?
A: Reputable US companies producing ceramic+UHMWPE Level IV products include Shellback Tactical, Tactical Scorpion Gear, and National Body Armor. These brands commonly publish NIJ/RF3 test data, offer multi-curve options, and provide standard warranties—important trust signals when selecting plates.