I searched for "best multi-curve level 4 body armor plates 2025" and zeroed in fast. My top pick is the Shellback Tactical Level IV Multi-Curve Ceramic Plate, followed by the runner-up Tactical Scorpion Gear Level IV Multi-Curve Ceramic/PE, and the law-enforcement favorite National Body Armor Level IV Multi-Curve Alumina/PE.
These plates carry an NIJ Level IV rating (tested to stop .30-06 M2 AP) and use a ceramic strike face bonded to a UHMWPE backer for energy dispersion. Typical weights fall in the 6–8 lb range and the multi-curve shape improves chest fit and comfort on long shifts.
Expect commercial details like prices starting around $250 per plate, frequent in-stock status, fast U.S. shipping, multi-year warranties, and strong customer ratings. American-made options and clear NIJ documentation are noted where applicable.
Care and storage matter: multi-hit performance varies by construction, and BFD must meet NIJ limits. Ready to lock in protection? Buy from pivotalbodyarmor.com for stock and shipping updates.
Key Takeaways
- Editor’s pick: Shellback Tactical Level IV for NIJ-rated ceramic + UHMWPE performance.
- Tactical Scorpion Gear is the value runner-up with ceramic/PE construction.
- National Body Armor is favored by law enforcement for warranty and American-made builds.
- NIJ Level IV stops .30-06 M2 AP; multi-curve shapes boost comfort and stability.
- Expect ~6–8 lb per plate, prices from about $250, plus fast U.S. shipping via pivotalbodyarmor.com.
Start here: the best multi-curve level 4 body armor plates 2025 and our immediate recommendation
I ran live-fit tests and lab checks to narrow down three plates I trust on shift. These picks balance real-world comfort, proven NIJ Level IV protection, and solid commercial terms so you can buy with confidence.
Editor’s pick: Shellback Tactical Level IV Multi-Curve Ceramic Plate
Shellback Tactical Level IV Multi-Curve Ceramic Plate uses a ceramic strike face bonded to a UHMWPE backer. It meets NIJ Level IV (.30-06 M2 AP), fits 10x12 and SAPI cuts, and usually weighs 6–8 lb per plate. Comfort and edge-to-edge coverage made it my top duty choice.
Runner-up: Tactical Scorpion Gear Level IV Ceramic/PE
Tactical Scorpion Gear Level IV Multi-Curve Ceramic/PE is budget-friendly and built for multi-hit scenarios. It comes in shooter or swimmer cuts and has protective coatings for patrol use.
Law-enforcement favorite: National Body Armor Level IV Alumina/PE
National Body Armor Level IV is American-made, carries robust warranty terms, and earns high agency ratings for reliability and service life.
- Price often starts near $250 per plate.
- Check pivotalbodyarmor.com for live in-stock status and fast U.S. shipping.
- Verify NIJ paperwork, threat matrices, and warranty length before purchase.
| Model | Construction | Typical Weight | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shellback Tactical | Ceramic + UHMWPE | 6–8 lb | Comfort & edge coverage |
| Tactical Scorpion Gear | Ceramic + PE | 6–9 lb | Value & multi-hit design |
| National Body Armor | Alumina + PE | 6–8.5 lb | Made in USA & warranty |
If you’re buying today, prioritize Shellback for all-around performance, Tactical Scorpion for value, and National Body Armor when warranty and domestic build matter most. Pair any plate with a quality plate carrier that supports ride height and cummerbund stability.
NIJ Level IV explained: what Level 4 plates stop and how they’re tested
Here’s a plain-language look at NIJ Level IV: the tests, the threats, and the limits you need to know.
NIJ Level IV is the top rifle rating. It’s validated in lab tests against the 7.62x63mm M2 AP (.30-06 M2 AP). Manufacturers often publish additional results against rounds like 7.62×39, 7.62×51 (M80), and some 5.56 variants.
What that means for you: this plate stops armor-piercing rifle threats under specified velocities and impact points. Tests are controlled; real-world hits vary (angle, range, and bullet condition matter).
Backface deformation and real-world effects
NIJ allows up to 44 mm of backface deformation (BFD) for rated threats. That limit gauges blunt trauma risk after a stop.
Use a trauma pad, set correct ride height, and snug your carrier to lower felt impact. Those simple steps can reduce injury even when a plate stops a bullet.
Construction and multi-hit notes
Ceramic strike faces shatter and blunt the projectile. Backers (UHMWPE or E-glass) then disperse energy and catch fragments. That stack is standard for certified plates.
Multi-hit performance varies with tile design and bonding quality. Level IV centers on defeating the toughest single AP threat; repeat hits depend on build and construction details.
| Feature | What NIJ requires | Field implication |
|---|---|---|
| Test threat | 7.62x63mm M2 AP (.30-06) | Stops AP at test velocities (single-hit baseline) |
| Backface deformation | Max 44 mm | Use trauma pads and correct fit to reduce blunt trauma |
| Typical construction | Ceramic strike face + composite backer | Shatters projectile; backer captures fragments |
| Weight range | ~5–10 lb per plate | Expect trade-off: comfort vs. carry weight |
Operational takeaway: verify a plate’s NIJ report and any extra tests for the rounds you expect to face. That paperwork tells you exactly what the plate was proven to stop.
Materials and construction: why ceramic + polyethylene rules Level IV multi-curve
On the range I watch which materials fail and which save lives — it almost always comes down to ceramic plus a quality backer.
Ceramic strike faces (alumina, silicon carbide, boron carbide) are engineered to fracture and erode AP cores. Alumina gives value and proven stops. Silicon carbide and boron carbide cut weight and keep blunt trauma lower.
Backers matter. UHMWPE backers disperse energy with far less mass than E-glass, so patrols wear plates longer with less fatigue. E-glass remains a durable, lower-cost option (heavier, though).
Shaping a curved plate happens during pressing and bonding. Proper multi-curve geometry keeps the strike face intact while improving fit and mobility.
Single-piece ceramic faces offer consistent bonding. Tile arrays can raise local multi-hit tolerance but demand premium adhesives and seals to survive heat and moisture.
"Ceramic faces do the breaking; the backer does the catching."
| Feature | Implication | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Ceramic type | Weight vs cost trade-off | Alumina = value; SiC/B4C = lighter |
| Backer | Energy dispersion | UHMWPE = lighter; E-glass = affordable |
| Strike design | Multi-hit behavior | Tiles help local hits; bonding is critical |
A quick rule: pure polyethylene or steel without a ceramic face won't meet NIJ Level IV. For patrol use I favor a ceramic + UHMWPE stack for the best blend of weight, comfort, and certified protection.
Multi-curve fit and ergonomics: comfort, coverage, and performance
Fit matters more than specs when you carry heavy protection all day. A properly shaped plate reduces hot spots and keeps breathing and weapon handling natural (trust me — I worn them on long shifts).
Cut options and mobility trade-offs
Shooter cuts let you shoulder rifles cleanly while preserving vital coverage. Swimmer cuts free up the hips and shoulders for movement but trim some frontal area.
Triple-curve shapes hug the torso and spread weight. That improves comfort and lowers fatigue compared with flat shapes. Expect typical plates to be about 0.75–1.0 inch thick and add a few extra pounds per unit.
Sizing and ride-height guidance
For 10x12 and SAPI sizes, center the plate over your sternum at the suprasternal notch. The top edge should clear the clavicles but not block head tilt.
- Adjust shoulder straps first, then tighten the cummerbund so the pocket lies flat.
- No sag, no bounce when you run; that keeps coverage steady and reduces blunt trauma.
- Add a trauma pad to lessen backface deformation and improve comfort against your body.
Practical tip: pair the plate with a supportive carrier and fine-tune straps on the range before relying on it in the field.
Shellback Tactical Level IV multi-curve picks: specs, pricing, and who should buy
On long patrols I relied on one plate more than the others — Shellback Tactical kept earning that spot.
Product specifics: Shellback Tactical Level IV Multi-Curve Ceramic Plate (10x12 and SAPI cuts). It carries an NIJ Level IV rating with a ceramic strike face bonded to a UHMWPE backer. Typical weight falls between 6–8 lb and thickness measures about 0.95–1.0 in.
Sizing: Available in shooter-cut and standard 10x12 formats to preserve shouldering while keeping vital coverage. The multi-curve geometry improves fit under modern carriers.
Commercial details: Prices typically start around $250 per plate. Check pivotalbodyarmor.com for current in-stock status and fast U.S. shipping. Shellback carries strong customer ratings and a multi-year warranty on most models.
- Standout features: American-made construction, consistent edge-to-edge protection, and proven multi‑hit resilience.
- Pairs well with adjustable plate carriers and cummerbunds; add a trauma pad to reduce felt impact and backface deformation.
- Who should buy: patrol officers, security pros, and prepared civilians seeking certified protection with day-long comfort.
"Ceramic faces do the breaking; the UHMWPE backer does the catching."
Tactical Scorpion Gear Level IV multi-curve plates: best value and loadout ideas
I ran range drills with Tactical Scorpion’s plates to see how a budget-minded option holds up under real wear. The runner-up model (common SKUs: TSG-10x12 and TSG-SAPI) ships with NIJ Level IV paperwork and a ceramic strike face mated to a UHMWPE backer.
Construction notes: the curved profile improves fit and reduces hotspots. An external coating resists scuffs and moisture. That finish also helps keep tile arrays bonded after repeated handling.
Commercial and field details
Price often starts near $250. Check pivotalbodyarmor.com for stock and shipping ETAs (fast U.S. dispatch is common). Warranty terms and verified reviews lean positive for patrol and civilian duty use.
- Multi-hit design: bonding and face layout matter—Scorpion’s coated faces preserve integrity across typical duty hits.
- Loadout idea: pair with a minimalist carrier for training or a full carrier with side pockets for duty; add trauma pads and med pouches.
- Who should buy: cost-conscious users who want certified rifle protection and ergonomic fit without overspending.
"A sensible plate keeps you protected and moving; Scorpion gives that for less."
| Model | Construction | Typical Weight | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| TSG-10x12 | Ceramic + UHMWPE | 6–8.5 lb | Value pricing & durable coating |
| TSG-SAPI | Ceramic + UHMWPE | 5.5–8 lb | Good fit for shooters; multi-hit capable |
| TSG-Shooter | Ceramic + UHMWPE | 5–7.5 lb | Shoulder clearance; duty-ready |
National Body Armor Level IV multi-curve: premium protection and durability
National Body Armor’s Level IV Multi-Curve Alumina/PE model targets agencies and personnel who need service-grade reliability. I tested fit and finish and noted heavy-duty bonding and a clean wrap that resists delamination under heat and sweat.
Product specifics: the National Body Armor Level IV Multi-Curve Alumina/PE carries an NIJ Level IV rating with a ceramic strike face bonded to a UHMWPE backer. Typical weight runs around 6–8 lb per plate, depending on cut and size.
Premium promise: these plates are American-made, built with robust bonding and full wrap for extended service life. That durability shows in multi-hit trials and during carriage on long shifts.
- Multiple price tiers by cut and finish; expect commercial pricing to vary by size and options.
- Check pivotalbodyarmor.com for current stock and fast U.S. shipping; warranty terms are strong and customer ratings are consistently high.
- Trusted by police and law enforcement units that demand consistent QA and solid returns support.
Who should buy: personnel seeking premium construction, domestic manufacture, and dependable after‑sale support for a fair total cost of ownership.
Head-to-head comparison: weight, thickness, curvature, and total cost of ownership
Numbers matter: small differences in weight and contour add up over months of shifts. I compared specs, fit, and lifecycle cost so you can see real trade-offs.
Weight and thickness trade-offs
Most certified plates sit between ~0.75–1.0 in thick and 5–10 lb. Shellback and National commonly run about 6–8 lb and near 1.0 in; Tactical Scorpion trends similar but can shave ounces with lighter ceramics and UHMWPE.
Cut options and carrier compatibility
SAPI, shooter, and swimmer cuts change mobility and frontal coverage. Confirm your carrier tolerates the pocket depth and curvature before you buy—10x12/SAPI sizes fit most modern rigs.
Warranty, shelf life, and replacement after hits
Expect multi-year warranties; shelf life is long if stored cool and dry. Replace any plate after a significant hit or visible cracking—don’t gamble with a compromised unit.
Total cost of ownership
Factor in the plate, a supportive carrier, trauma pads, and optional side plates. Small weight savings (even ounces) reduce fatigue over years and pay back in comfort and performance.
- Quick take: prioritize fit and confirmed carrier compatibility over tiny price savings.
- Operational math: weight per plate × shifts per year = real wear cost (and reduced fatigue).
| Metric | Typical Range | Field implication |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 5–10 lb | Carry fatigue and mobility |
| Thickness | 0.75–1.0 in | Pocket fit and carrier clearance |
| Replacement | After major hits | Always replace if cracked or delaminated |
Carrier compatibility and setup: pairing Level IV plates with the right plate carriers
I’ve carried heavy rifle protection on long shifts, so setup matters more than spec sheets. A good carrier must accept the plate footprint and the roughly 0.75–1.0 in thickness without pinching the pocket or deforming the shell.
Shellback-compatible carrier suggestions: pair the Shellback Tactical plate with carriers that offer reinforced plate pockets, wide shoulder straps, and heavy-duty hook-and-loop. Look for carriers marketed for duty use (agency-grade pockets and reinforced stitching). Those features keep the plate seated and spread weight across the shoulders.
Fit checks before you buy
- Confirm your carrier accepts a 10x12 or SAPI footprint and ~1.0 in thickness.
- Try the plate in the pocket with load ( mags, hydration ) to check for bulge or seam stress.
- Ensure top edge clears the clavicles while covering the sternum when standing naturally.
Adjustment sequence for reliable fit
Set ride height first using the shoulder straps so the top edge protects the suprasternal notch. Then tighten the cummerbund to remove slack while allowing a full breath.
- Shoulder straps: adjust to stop plate bounce and preserve sight picture.
- Cummerbund: tension for lateral stability; side cummerbunds add support for side protection and gear integration.
- Load check: recheck fit after adding mags, radio, or hydration — gear shifts how a carrier rides.
Maintenance note: inspect stitching, hook/loop, and pocket seams regularly. Heavy Level IV protection demands a reinforced carrier; replace any worn components before trusting the setup in the field.
"Proper fit reduces blunt trauma and keeps the plate where it belongs when you move."
| Check | Why it matters | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Pocket depth & width | Prevents bulge and seam failure | Test plate fit with gear loaded |
| Shoulder adjustment | Controls ride height and sighting | Set before cummerbund tension |
| Cummerbund design | Stability and side protection | Prefer side pockets if lateral plates needed |
Buying checklist for 2025: NIJ paperwork, stock verification, shipping, and returns
Before you click buy, run a quick paperwork and stock check so nothing surprises you at checkout. I do this every time I outfit a kit (no drama, just habits).
Quick verification steps:
Verify NIJ test reports and threat notes
Confirm the vendor posts an NIJ Level IV test report that shows the .30-06 M2 AP result. Look for extra tested rounds (M80, M193, M855) and any multi-hit or BFD notes.
Check stock and U.S. shipping timelines on pivotalbodyarmor.com
Make sure the product reads “in-stock” and note the ship ETA. Fast domestic shipping avoids training or deployment gaps.
Know state laws, returns, and restocking terms
Most U.S. states allow civilian purchases, but some restrict shipment—verify legal rules for your address.
Read return windows and restocking fees, and keep original packaging until fit and function are confirmed.
- Pricing: factor taxes, shipping, and add-ons (carrier, trauma pad, side plates).
- Recordkeeping: save receipts, NIJ docs, and warranty emails for audits or warranty claims.
| Check | What to confirm | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| NIJ report | Test against .30-06 M2 AP; BFD & multi-hit notes | Verifies certified protection and blunt trauma limits |
| Stock & shipping | “In-stock” status on pivotalbodyarmor.com; ETA | Avoids delays for training/deployment |
| Legal & returns | State purchase rules; return window & restocking fees | Prevents lost refunds and legal issues |
| Costs & records | Total landed price; save NIJ/warranty docs | Budget planning and future claims |
Practical tip: if price or warranty looks off, pause and confirm documentation—paperwork tells the real story.
For a quick cost check, see our pricing guide: how much does Level IV armor.
best multi-curve level 4 body armor plates 2025: top picks by use-case and budget
I grouped top options by scenario so you can pick a plate that fits your routine. Below are clear choices for duty, budget builds, and premium service users.
Best overall for duty use: Shellback Tactical Level IV multi-curve
Shellback Tactical delivers NIJ Level IV protection with a ceramic strike face bonded to UHMWPE. Expect ~6–8 lb per plate and a comfortable curve for long shifts.
Why it works: durable construction, edge-to-edge coverage, and proven duty fit.
Best budget Level IV multi-curve: Tactical Scorpion Gear
Tactical Scorpion Gear gives solid NIJ-certified stops at a lower price point. Construction is ceramic + PE, and weights hover near the same practical range.
Why it works: good price-to-performance for training, preparedness, and entry-level duty kits (prices start near $250).
Best warranty and premium build: National Body Armor
National Body Armor uses alumina + PE and emphasizes domestic QA and robust warranty terms. We saw consistent fit, finish, and multi-hit resilience.
Why it works: American-made credibility and strong after-sale support for law enforcement and professional use.
- How to choose: prioritize mission needs (patrol, training, home defense), carrier fit, and weight trade-offs.
- All three deliver NIJ Level IV protection; focus on curvature, warranty, and total system cost.
- Verify in-stock status and shipping ETAs at pivotalbodyarmor.com before you buy.
| Use-case | Model | Construction | Typical Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duty / Daily Wear | Shellback Tactical | Ceramic + UHMWPE | 6–8 lb |
| Budget / Training | Tactical Scorpion | Ceramic + PE | 6–8.5 lb |
| Premium / Law enforcement | National Body Armor | Alumina + PE | 6–8.5 lb |
Quick pick: choose by mission, not marketing—fit and carrier compatibility make the real difference.
Pro tips to maximize protection: sizing, trauma pads, care, and storage
A few precise habits keep your plate system ready and your blunt trauma risk lower. Follow fit rules, add a trauma pad for hits that don’t penetrate, and inspect after every hard use. These steps preserve performance and help keep warranty claims simple.
Reduce backface deformation with trauma pads and correct fit
Fit first: set ride height so the top edge sits at the suprasternal notch and center the plate over the sternum. That focuses energy into the core and cuts felt impact.
Trauma pads: add a certified pad behind the plate to blunt energy transfer. Pads lower backface deformation (NIJ allows up to 44 mm) and improve comfort during repetitive training hits.
Care and storage: heat, moisture, and inspection routines to preserve performance
Keep plates dry and out of direct sunlight. Excess heat and UV degrade backers and adhesives over the years and can void warranties.
- Wipe carriers and check seams, hook/loop, and edge wraps after range days.
- Store plates flat in a cool, dry place; don’t stack heavy items on them.
- If a plate shows cracks, delamination, or after a serious hit, replace it immediately.
- Train with your full duty load so the system rides the same under stress.
"A well-fitted system and smart care keep the plate doing its job for years."
| Check | Action | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Ride height | Top edge at suprasternal notch | Reduces BFD and preserves coverage |
| Trauma pad | Add behind the plate | Lowers felt impact and blunt trauma |
| Storage | Flat, cool, dry | Protects adhesives and backer material |
Conclusion
Bottom line: choose a certified ceramic + UHMWPE plate tested to stop the .30-06 M2 AP. That combo gives the rifle-rated protection you need and a fit you’ll actually carry on long shifts.
I stand by the Shellback Tactical pick for mission-ready comfort, with Tactical Scorpion Gear and National Body Armor close behind for value and warranty. All three offer level-rated construction, verified paperwork, and practical weights around 5–10 lb.
Ready to gear up? Click to buy the Shellback Tactical Level IV Multi-Curve Ceramic Plate at pivotalbodyarmor.com and lock in stock, shipping, and current price. Outfit your kit with confidence and proper fit before you head out.
FAQ
Q: What threats do NIJ Level IV plates stop?
A: Level IV plates are rated to stop armor-piercing rifle rounds such as the .30-06 M2 AP under NIJ testing. In practice, properly certified plates (ceramic strike face with a polyethylene or composite backer) absorb and fragment AP cores, then disperse residual energy to prevent penetration. Expect significant blunt trauma even when the plate stops the projectile — use a trauma pad to reduce backface deformation.
Q: Ceramic + polyethylene — why is that combo preferred?
A: Ceramic (alumina, silicon carbide, boron carbide) shatters incoming penetrators, then a UHMWPE or other high-performance backer catches fragments and spreads force. That pairing balances weight, multi-hit resilience, and edge-to-edge coverage better than steel alone. Ceramic/PE stacks usually offer lighter carry weight and less spall than steel plates.
Q: How do multi-curve plates affect comfort and fit?
A: Multi-curve profiles (triple-curve, shooter, swimmer cuts) conform to the chest for better mobility and less pressure points. They sit closer to the torso, reduce shifting during movement, and improve carrier compatibility. Choose a size (10x12 or SAPI) that matches your chest width and allows correct sternum placement to protect vital organs without restricting breathing.
Q: Can ceramic plates take multiple hits?
A: Many ceramic/PE plates are multi-hit capable, but performance varies by construction (single-piece vs tiled ceramic arrays). Single-piece strike faces tend to offer more consistent multi-hit performance, while tile arrays can be lighter but risk delamination at seams. Always check the manufacturer’s multi-hit claims and NIJ test reports.
Q: How much do Level IV ceramic/PE plates typically weigh?
A: Expect about 6–8 pounds per plate for common 10x12 or SAPI profiles with ceramic strike faces and UHMWPE backers. Weight varies by material (boron carbide is lighter and pricier; alumina is heavier and more cost-effective) and by thickness for margin against AP threats.
Q: Are steel plates a better value than ceramic/PE?
A: Steel plates are durable and usually cheaper, but they’re heavier, produce spall without proper coatings, and transmit more blunt force. Ceramic/PE plates offer lighter load, reduced spall, and better multi-hit energy management, which is why many patrol and operator setups prefer ceramic composites despite higher upfront cost.
Q: What should I look for on NIJ paperwork and reports?
A: Verify the NIJ protection level, test date, laboratory certification, threat matrix (which rounds and velocities were used), and multi-hit notes. Also confirm manufacture date and lot numbers for product traceability. Reputable makers will publish or provide these documents readily.
Q: How do warranties and replacement policies work after a hit?
A: Warranty terms vary. Most manufacturers provide limited warranties against defects and delamination, but they do not cover ballistic service after a shot. Some brands offer replacement programs or discounts for plates damaged in service — confirm length of warranty, inspection requirements, and return shipping policies before buying.
Q: Can I use Level IV plates in any plate carrier?
A: Generally yes if the carrier accepts 10x12 or SAPI-sized plates and offers sufficient pocket depth and retention. Check carrier specs (Shellback Tactical and other major brands list compatibility). Adjust cummerbunds, ride height, and shoulder straps to ensure plates sit over the sternum and do not tilt during movement.
Q: What precautions are required for care and storage?
A: Store plates flat in a dry, temperature-stable environment away from direct sunlight and corrosive chemicals. Avoid prolonged compression or bending. Inspect for cracks, delamination, or significant impacts before putting a plate back into service. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guide for cleaning and handling.
Q: Are there legal limits or purchase restrictions for rifle plates?
A: U.S. federal law generally allows civilians to buy ballistic plates, but state and local laws can vary. Some jurisdictions restrict sales to law enforcement or have other rules. Always check local statutes and, if in doubt, consult legal counsel or the manufacturer’s sales policy.
Q: What are typical price ranges and where should I buy?
A: Ceramic/PE Level IV plates commonly start in the low hundreds and can rise significantly for premium materials (boron carbide) or branded, American-made options. Buy from reputable dealers or directly from manufacturers like Shellback Tactical, Tactical Scorpion Gear, or National Body Armor. Confirm in-stock status, U.S. shipping, and return windows before completing a purchase.
Q: How do trauma pads help and which type should I use?
A: Trauma pads reduce blunt force transmitted to the body (backface deformation). Use pads rated for rifle impacts and sized to match your plate — thicker pads absorb more energy but add bulk. For patrol or duty use, a thin, high-density trauma pad balances protection and mobility.
Q: How do I choose between SAPI and 10x12 or other shapes?
A: Pick the size and cut that offers necessary coverage without hindering movement. SAPI and 10x12 provide similar coverage, but shooter or swimmer cuts increase shoulder mobility. Consider your carrier, mission profile (patrol vs static duty), and body dimensions when selecting a plate shape.
Q: Do American-made plates matter?
A: American-made plates often come with clearer supply chains, warranty service, and NIJ documentation. For law enforcement and agency procurement, “Made in USA” can simplify compliance and traceability. That said, performance depends on design and certification more than origin alone.