Level 4 Body Armor for Preppers: Why It's Essential for Survival

Level 4 body armor provides the highest level of protection against rifle threats, including armor piercing rounds. It is rated to stop a single hit of 30-06 AP ammunition, making it capable of defending against some of the most powerful and penetrative rifle ammo. For preppers and survivalists, level 4 plates should be considered essential protective gear to have on hand. In a SHTF scenario, you may face determined attackers armed with high-powered rifles loaded with AP ammo. Level 4 armor gives you the best chance of surviving if you take fire.

Why level 4 protection is recommended for preppers

While soft armor and level 3 plates can provide good defense against most handgun and rifle ammo, determined and well-armed adversaries in a SHTF situation are more likely to be using AP rifle rounds which can penetrate lower levels of armor. To be fully prepared, level 4 plates are strongly recommended. You can't predict exactly what threats you might face in a collapse scenario. Erring on the side of caution with level 4 rifle plates maximizes your protection and survivability. It's better to have the extra level of protection that you may not need, rather than needing it and not having it.

Steel vs ceramic level 4 body armor plates

Level 4 armor plates are available in either steel or ceramic composite varieties. Steel is lower cost and extremely durable, capable of withstanding multiple hits without failing. However, steel is also very heavy which can fatigue the wearer over time and slow them down. Ceramic composite plates are much lighter than steel while still providing level 4 rifle protection. However, they are more expensive and can only withstand 1-3 hits before being compromised and needing replacement. Many preppers opt for ceramic level 4 to reduce weight.

Material	Cost	Weight	Multi-Hit
Steel	$	Heavy	Yes
Ceramic	$$$	Light	No

Standalone vs in-conjunction level 4 plates

Level 4 plates are available in standalone and in-conjunction configurations. Standalone means the plates can be worn by themselves without any soft armor backer and still provide full level 4 protection. In-conjunction means the plates are meant to be worn with a soft armor backer. In-conjunction plates are thinner and lighter since some of the protective work is being done by the soft armor. However, you then need to wear the plates and soft armor together for them to provide the rated protection. Standalone plates are more versatile but also heavier and bulkier.

Sizing and fitment of level 4 rifle plates

For any body armor to provide optimal protection, it needs to cover your vital organs and fit close to your body without limiting mobility. Measure your torso vertically from the notch in your sternum to 1-2" above your belly button. Measure horizontally across your chest at the nipples. 10"x12" rectangular or "shooter's cut" plates are the most common size that will fit most average builds. If you have a bigger or smaller frame, you may need larger or smaller plates accordingly. Look for a carrier that keeps the plates snug to your body and allows freedom of movement.

Types of level IV hard armor plate cuts

Level 4 plates typically come in a few different shapes or "cuts" - rectangular, shooters, and multi-curve. Rectangular plates provide the most overall coverage area but can impede mobility. Shooter's cut plates are popular for their balance of good coverage and mobility. Multi-curve plates are shaped to wrap around the body better for a closer and more comfortable fit. SAPI cut is another popular shape used by the military that has extra padding around the edges. Different cuts can accommodate side plates as well for additional protection.

Plate Cut	Coverage	Mobility	Fit
Rectangular	Most	Restricted	Boxy
Shooter's	Balance	Good	Fitted
Multi-Curve	Contoured	Best	Closest

Shelf life and maintenance of level 4 armor

With proper storage and care, level 4 ceramic plates should maintain their rated protection capabilities for 5-7 years. Steel plates can last 15-20 years or more. Keep your plates in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture when not in use. Inspect your plates regularly for any cracks, dents or wear to the protective surface. Ceramic plates can develop small cracks from rough handling that grow over time. Any significant damage means the plate should be replaced as the protection may be compromised.

Building a "go bag" around level 4 armor

Your level 4 plates and plate carrier can form the core of a "go bag" or ready kit that you can quickly throw on if you need to bug out or respond to a threat. Add to your carrier a few spare rifle and pistol mags, an IFAK with tourniquets and pressure dressings, some emergency rations, and a handheld radio. Keep your armor go-bag staged in a quickly accessible location, like a closet near your front door or your vehicle. Regularly inspect it to ensure the plates are in good shape, the carrier's straps and fasteners are functional, and the supplementary gear is present and ready.

Importance of training in your level 4 armor

Buying level 4 rifle plates and throwing them in the closet is not enough to ensure your survival in a SHTF scenario. To be fully prepared, you need to regularly train and practice responding to threats while wearing your full kit. Wear your plates and plate carrier while practicing rifle and pistol drills, practicing shoot/no-shoot decision making, and rehearsing tactical movement and comms with a partner or team. The more reps you get in your kit now, the more prepared you'll be when SHTF.

Advantages of level 4 armor for home defense

In addition to preparing for SHTF, level 4 plates play an important role in effective home defense. If you need to defend against a home invasion, you may be facing attackers armed with rifles. Throwing on your level 4 plate carrier equalizes your protection. Keeping a plate carrier with level 4 plates next to your home defense gun gives you the option to armor up before investigating a bump in the night. The plates give you a big advantage if you need to go hands-on to neutralize the threat and protect your family.

Choosing the right plate carrier for your level 4 armor

Not all plate carriers are created equal, and you want to be sure to select one that is durable, comfortable, and suited to the types of situations you anticipate facing. Look for carriers made from quality 500D or greater Cordura nylon for abrasion and wear resistance. Pick a carrier with well-padded and ventilated shoulder straps to support the weight of plates over extended periods. MOLLE webbing lets you customize your loadout. Some carriers have quick-release systems that let you ditch the plates rapidly in an emergency.

Protect your investment with proper storage

Level 4 rifle plates and carriers are not cheap, so take care to protect your investment with proper storage and maintenance. Store your armor in a cool, dry, dark place in a protective bag or case when not in use to prevent damage and degradation. After any serious use, inspect your plates and carrier for damage or excessive wear. Clean the carrier with a mild detergent according to the manufacturer's instructions. Check all fasteners and stitching and repair or replace the carrier if needed.

Where to find the best deals on level 4 armor

Pivotal Body Armor is a top destination for preppers looking for great deals on Level 4 armor plates. We offer a wide selection from top manufacturers in different sizes, cuts, and configurations, so you can find the perfect setup for your needs. We also have a variety of plate carriers to choose from to complete your level 4 kit. We offer quantity discounts for groups, and special sales for newsletter subscribers. We stand behind everything we sell with industry-leading customer service.

Develop a training plan to master your preps

Buying top-quality level 4 armor is an important step in the right direction, but to fully prepare you need to develop a training plan to gain competency with your kit. Schedule regular practice sessions to build your skills and test your gear. Focus on mastering your weapons and tactical movement while armored up. Practice comms and teamwork with your family or prepper group. Run physical endurance training in your gear to build your ability to maneuver and fight for extended periods under armor load.

Level 4 armor as part of a larger preparedness strategy

Level 4 rifle plates are a key component of an overall strategy of layered personal protection. But your preps shouldn't stop there. Invest in reactive armor plates for your vital vehicles if you expect to be bugging out of or through dangerous areas when SHTF. Stage spare level 4 plates and armor for every member of your family or prepper team. Cross-train on tactical skills and decision making as a group. Diversify your stockpiles and caches. The more effort you put into comprehensive readiness now, the better your odds when SHTF.

Legality and traveling with body armor

Hard and soft body armor is completely legal to buy and own in the US, but some states and cities have laws prohibiting wearing hard plates in public, so be sure to know your local regulations. When transporting your armor kit, pack it in locked hard cases as you would a firearm. If stopped by law enforcement while wearing your armor, comply with all lawful orders. Inform them that you have armor and ask how they want to proceed. Assert your right to wear it if you're in a permissive jurisdiction and situation.

Get expert advice choosing and using level 4 armor

New preppers can find the world of tactical armor confusing with so many options and factors to consider. If you're unsure about what level 4 plates and carrier are best for your needs and scenario, get expert help from our tactical armor team. Our experienced armor specialists can assess your situation, budget, and operational needs, then recommend the optimal level 4 rifle plate and carrier package for you. We're happy to provide detailed buying guidance, as well as tips on proper fitment, maintenance, storage, and real-world tactical usage.

Stay up to date on the latest level 4 armor developments

Tactical armor technology is constantly advancing, with new materials, designs, and features becoming available all the time. Stay on the cutting edge of developments in level 4 plates by signing up for our newsletter and product alerts. We send our product update newsletter out monthly highlighting the newest plate models, carriers, and other tactical armor system components to hit the market. You'll also hear about the latest informative articles, videos, and podcast episodes from our survival armor experts.

Why you can't afford not to invest in level 4 armor

In a dangerous and uncertain world, the ability to protect yourself and your loved ones from lethal threats is priceless. Failing to invest in quality level 4 rifle protection now could cost you everything when that protection is needed the most. Whatever your budget, investing in durable and proven level 4 rifle plates needs to be an absolute priority. Start with a core plate and carrier, then build out your complete protection kit over time. The peace of mind is more than worth the cost.

Conclusion: Equip yourself to survive SHTF

If you consider yourself a serious prepper, then you need to equip yourself with serious protection. Level 4 hard armor plates provide the best possible defense against the rifle threats you may face in a SHTF or home defense scenario when your life depends on it. Do your research, invest in quality level 4 plates and carriers, and put in the training time now to master your kit. Maintain and store your armor properly to keep it ready to go at a moment's notice. Your safety is your responsibility, so take it seriously and prepare for the worst.

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