Do You Really Need Level 4 Body Armor? A Buyer’s Guide

Understanding body armor protection levels

Body armor is rated by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) into different protection levels based on the types of bullets it can stop. These range from Level IIA for small handgun rounds up to Level IV for armor-piercing rifle rounds. Deciding which level of protection you need depends on the potential threats you may face. For most civilians, police, and security guards, Level IIIa soft armor or Level III hard armor plates will provide sufficient protection against common weapons. Level IV armor is heavier and bulkier, designed for military personnel in combat zones.

What does Level IV body armor protect against?

Level IV is the highest rating for body armor under the NIJ personal body armor specifications. It will stop single hit rounds as powerful as a .30 caliber AP (armor piercing) bullet with a mass of 10.8 g (166 gr) and a velocity of 878 m/s ± 9.1 m/s (2880 ft/s ± 30 ft/s). This means Level IV plates can protect against bullets from high-powered rifles like the AK-47, AR-15, M14, and M16. It also protects against the Level I-III threats. However, it is not rated for repeated hits, as the armor becomes degraded after stopping powerful rounds.

Advantages of Level IV armor plates

The main benefit of Level IV ceramic body armor is the high level of protection it provides. If you are in a situation where you may face armor-piercing ammunition or high-powered rifles, Level IV is the only rating that can reliably protect you. Additionally, many Level IV plates are standalone, meaning they can be worn without the need for a soft armor backer. They tend to be multi-hit capable and have a 10-year warranty. When faced with a determined attacker or unknown threat level, many opt for Level IV to ensure maximum protection.

Disadvantages of Level IV armor plates

The main downside of Level IV rifle plates is that they are heavy, adding between 6-8 pounds per plate. This extra weight can cause fatigue and reduced mobility, especially over extended periods of time. The bulk also makes them harder to conceal. Cost is another factor, as Level IV ceramic plates are typically the most expensive. Entry-level plates start at around $200-300 per plate. For most civilian uses, many find the lower levels of protection to be sufficient while avoiding the tradeoffs of Level IV plates.

Alternative protection levels to consider

For everyday protection against common projectile threats, Level IIIa body armor provides protection against most handgun rounds, including .44 Magnum, 9mm, .357 Magnum, and .45 ACP. These soft armor panels are lightweight and concealable. Level III rifle plates are rated to stop 7.62x51mm NATO M80 ball ammo and similar high-velocity rounds. These hard plates offer less protection than Level IV but are lighter at around 5 pounds per plate. This tends to be a popular choice for balancing protection and mobility.

Steel vs ceramic level IV body armor

Within the Level IV category, you have the choice between steel and ceramic plates. Steel is less expensive and more multi-hit capable. However, it is much heavier at 8-10 pounds per plate, and can cause spalling when hit, where the bullet fragments into smaller projectiles. Ceramic strike faces bonded to composite backings are the more popular choice for Level IV. The ceramic is harder and causes the bullet to shatter on impact. Ceramic plates are lighter than steel but are thicker. They are more expensive but generally seen as the better overall option.

Material	Pros	Cons
Steel	Less expensive Multi-hit capable	Heavier at 8-10 lbs per plate Can cause spalling
Ceramic	Lighter than steel Stops bullets by shattering	More expensive Thicker than steel

How to properly fit and wear Level IV armor plates

For rifle plates to be effective, they must cover your vital organs, specifically your heart and lungs. Measure from your sternal notch to 1-2" above your belly button to determine the plate size you need. A proper fit will allow your plates to stay in place and not restrict your movement. Hard armor plates should always go in plate carriers, never in pockets on regular vests or backpacks. Wear your plate carrier securely but not overly tight. It should be snug enough that the plates do not shift around as you move. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific plate carrier or armor system.

Maintaining and replacing your Level IV body armor

With proper care, ceramic Level IV plates have a 10-20 year service life in ideal storage conditions. Always store armor panels flat in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Never get the strike face wet if possible. Inspect your armor before each use for any cracks, dents, or signs of damage. If a plate is compromised, replace it immediately. After 5 years, have the manufacturer inspect the plates to verify their continued safety and effectiveness. Budget to replace Level IV plates every 5-10 years, depending on storage and use.

Level IV body armor and Trauma Pads

To reduce blunt impact and help prevent behind armor trauma, many choose to add foam trauma pads behind their Level IV plates. While quality Level IV plates are unlikely to cause significant back face deformation, trauma pads can reduce felt impact by up to 40%. Look for pads that are around 1/4" thick to avoid negatively affecting plate fit. Many plate carriers have pockets to place the pads between the plate and the carrier's rear fabric. Trauma pads are not required but are seen as a beneficial addition by most armor manufacturers and wearers.

Picking the right plate carrier for your Level IV plates

Not all plate carriers are rated to carry Level IV plates, due to the increased size and weight. Look for a purpose-built carrier designed to properly fit and support your chosen rifle plates. Avoid cheap or generic universal carriers. Key qualities to look for are durable 500D-1000D nylon construction, padded shoulder straps, an adjustable cummerbund, and strong stitching. A quality plate carrier should keep the plates secure against your body and allow them to fit close together over the heart when worn. Soft Body Armor

Purchasing Level IV body armor online

When buying body armor online, be sure to purchase from a reputable retailer. Look for detailed listings with NIJ compliant test results and specifications. Avoid any Level IV plates under 5 pounds or thinner than 1", as they likely use subpar materials. Expect to pay $400-1000 for a set of quality Level IV plates. Remember that this is potentially life-saving equipment, so avoid bargain hunting. Read reviews and compare models. Choose multi-curve plates from a well-known manufacturer for the best fit, performance, and durability.

Alternatives to hard body armor

For those looking for lighter or more concealable protection, there are various soft armor options available. These include Level II and Level IIIa soft panels made from Kevlar or other ballistic fibers. These are designed to stop most common handgun rounds. There are also IIA and II insert solutions that fit into backpacks, briefcases, or under clothing. While these do not offer rifle protection, they can provide some defense against threats like small caliber rounds, knives, and fragmentation, while being very discreet and easy to carry or wear all day.

Balancing protection, mobility, and cost

Selecting the right body armor always involves tradeoffs between threat protection, agility, concealability, and budget. Many find Level III hard armor or Level IIIa soft armor provide a practical balance for everyday defensive use and professional wear. Level IV armor absolutely has its place for those facing high powered rifles or unknown threats. For civilians, it is most applicable for home defense against determined intruders. For professional use, frontline military personnel and special response law enforcement teams benefit most from Level IV. Spartan Armor Systems Soft Body Armor

Training considerations with Level IV plates

The weight and bulk of Level IV armor requires training and conditioning to maintain effectiveness. Practice shooting, moving, and communicating while wearing your armor plates. Focus on building up core strength and endurance. Draw your sidearm from concealment, shoulder a rifle, go prone, and practice fire and movement drills in your gear. The more you train in your armor, the more natural and effective you'll be in a real defense scenario. Consider that your stamina will be reduced, so keep individual drills short but intense.

Laws and regulations around body armor

In the US, body armor is legal for most citizens to purchase and own. However, a few states have restrictions on certain types of armor (like Connecticut banning Level IV plates). Felons are prohibited from owning body armor by federal law. When selecting armor, avoid anything described as "bulletproof" or marketed using threatening imagery or wording. Opt for NIJ compliant solutions clearly marketed for safety and defense. Be aware of any relevant local laws, and consider adding a copy of your receipt and any paperwork to your "Bugout Binder" of essential documents.

Busting body armor myths

One common misconception is that civilians cannot purchase body armor. As mentioned, it is legal federally and in most states. Another myth is that armor makes you invincible. It is important to remember that even the best armor has its limits and to always prioritize avoidance and de-escalation if possible. Some claim that Level III armor is just as protective as Level IV. While Level III does offer substantial protection, the Level IV certification against armor piercing rounds makes it objectively more defensive when facing high powered rifles. Conversely, Level IV is sometimes seen as complete overkill, but this ignores its relevance for prepared citizens and certain law enforcement roles.

Purposes and scenarios for wearing Level IV armor

The most practical everyday scenario for Level IV armor is home defense. It provides reliable protection against high-powered weapons in the event of a break in. It also serves as an ideal stowaway armor system for emergencies and social unrest situations. For professional use, Level IV armor is standard issue for military infantry and is increasingly used by law enforcement responding to active shooters or facing heavily armed criminals. Potential situations include barricaded suspects, hostage rescue, high-risk warrant service, terrorism response, and confronting armed and violent protestors.

Level IV Multi-Curve vs Single-Curve armor plates

The shape and curvature of the rigid armor plate affects both protective coverage and overall comfort. Single-curve plates have a consistent arc and allow for more sizing flexibility, as one plate shape fits a wider range of body types. Multi-curve plates have multiple complex bends to more closely match the three-dimensional curvature of the human torso. This maximizes coverage by eliminating gaps at the edges. Multi-curve plates tend to feel less cumbersome and distribute weight better but have a more specific fit. Tactical Scorpion Gear Soft Body Armor

Choosing Level IV ICW armor plates

Level IV ICW (in-conjunction with) plates are thinner and lighter than standalone plates but require a Level IIIa soft armor backer to reach Level IV protection. The ICW plates handle the rifle threats while the soft armor stops fragmentation and lower-velocity rounds. ICW plates make sense if you already own or want to wear Level IIIa soft armor on a daily basis and want to be able to quickly add Level IV protection on top of it. For those who only need occasional hard armor protection, standalone plates are typically the more practical and versatile choice.

Deciding if you need Level IV body armor

So do you need Level IV body armor? It depends on your defensive needs, profession, and overall risk profile. For prepared citizens, opting for Level IV plates for your home armor system makes sense to ensure protection against worst-case threats. For everyday carry armor, most will be adequately protected by soft Level IIIa panels or Level III hard plates, as armor-piercing rifle threats are less likely. Evaluate your personal situation, train diligently with your gear, and you'll be equipped to make an informed body armor decision.

Closing thoughts on Level IV plates

Quality Level IV armor serves as the gold standard in personal ballistic protection. Nothing else will stop armor-piercing rounds from high-powered rifles. For the concerned citizen, first responder, and warfighter facing unknown and dangerous threats, that assurance is invaluable. If Level IV fits your needs and budget, opt for NIJ-certified ceramic multi-curve plates from a trusted retailer. Add a well-fitting plate carrier, develop smart defensive habits, and you'll gain a potentially lifesaving tool that provides true peace of mind if a worst-case scenario unfolds.

Find anything you need