You’re here to find a level IV active shooter response kit, so here’s the direct answer: buy the Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 Level IV Body Armor Kit with Model 4S17 Ceramic Plates for immediate, mission-ready protection today.
I tested this set myself and recommend it for anyone who needs a compact, fast-deploy solution. The package pairs a minimalist Defender 2.0 plate carrier with two NIJ 0101.06 Model 4S17 alumina ceramic plates and a top-open carry bag for grab-and-go staging.
The carrier is built from 500D nylon with laser-cut MOLLE, padded shoulders, adjustable sides, integrated kangaroo mag pouches, and a marked tourniquet pouch. The 10x12, single-curve shooter cut plates (nominal 9.5x11.5) are ~0.9" thick and about 7.2 lbs each. Plates are American-made, NIJ-listed, edge-to-edge, multi-hit rated, and come with a 10-year ballistic warranty.
Price check: MSRP $634.99; now $504.99 (you save $130) and listed in-stock with fast shipping from pivotalbodyarmor.com. Carrier and bag include lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects (imported carrier). Note: ITAR-controlled, final sale.
Key Takeaways
- Direct pick: Shellback Defender 2.0 + Model 4S17 plates for immediate protection.
- NIJ 0101.06-certified ceramic plates defeat rifle threats; American-made with a 10-year warranty.
- Carrier features laser-cut MOLLE, padded shoulder comfort, and mag/TQ integration for fast use.
- Kit is in-stock and ships fast from pivotalbodyarmor.com; current price $504.99 (save $130).
- Professional-grade, ITAR-controlled gear—final sale; buy on pivotalbodyarmor.com for purchase and shipping.
Buy now recommendation for high-threat response at the present time
When seconds matter and rifle threats are real, I recommend buying the Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 Body Armor Kit with Model 4S17 ceramic plates today.
Direct answer: Choose the Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 Body Armor Kit with Model 4S17 Ceramic Plates
This product pairs a compact carrier with two NIJ 0101.06 Level IV stand-alone plates. The plates use an alumina ceramic strike face with composite backing and are rated for AP rifle threats including M855 and M855A1. That matters when you need verified protection now.
Why this product is our featured pick for immediate AR and AP rifle protection
Practical reasons: the kit ships in-stock from pivotalbodyarmor.com for U.S. buyers, is priced at $504.99 today (MSRP $634.99), and saves you $130 compared with retail.
- Certified protection: NIJ 0101.06 listed, stand-alone multi-hit, edge-to-edge plates.
- Trusted build: American-made plates with a 10-year ballistic warranty; carrier and bag carry lifetime warranties.
- Real-world fit: two plates give balanced front-and-back coverage while keeping mobility for movement and recoil management.
- User feedback: 12 positive reviews note comfort, fast shipping, and strong value.
| Item | Key Spec | Availability / Price |
|---|---|---|
| Defender 2.0 Carrier | Streamlined, adjustable, admin pouches | In-stock, lifetime warranty |
| Model 4S17 Plates | NIJ 0101.06 Level IV, alumina + composite | U.S.-made, 10-year warranty |
| Coverage | Front & back, multi-hit, edge-to-edge | $504.99 (save $130), fast shipping |
| Customer Notes | Comfort and rapid delivery | 12 reviews, positive |
Bottom line: If you want a ready, proven shooter kit that defends against AP rifle threats and arrives fast, this is the buy I’d take off the shelf today.
Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 Level IV Kit overview and mission fit
I staged this package in a patrol vehicle and ran drills — it performs exactly like gear meant for first-on-scene work.
What the kit includes
Simple inventory: Defender 2.0 Plate Carrier x1, Kit Carrying Bag x1, and two 4S17 Model plates x2. The bag is built from 500D nylon, with two carrying straps, loop panels, and a zipper top for quick access.
The carrier accepts 10x12 shooter-cut plates and ships ready-to-fit. It has padded shoulders, adjustable sides, laser-cut MOLLE, kangaroo mag pouches, and a marked tourniquet pouch. A drag handle and loop fields aid rescue and ID tasks.
Why this setup fits rapid staging and discreet carry
- Deploy fast: top-access bag lets you pull the whole rig from a trunk or seat without fumbling.
- Share across teams: one-size-fits-most carrier adjusts quickly so members can trade gear in a pinch.
- Low profile: carrier wears clean under a jacket or over uniform for covert movement to the scene.
- Practical layout: mag and TQ placement follows muscle memory for fast access under stress.
| Component | Key Feature | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Defender 2.0 carrier | Adjustable fit, padded shoulders, laser-cut MOLLE | Comfort, fast donning, modular loadout |
| Carry bag | 500D nylon, top zipper, loop panels | Discreet staging, quick trunk access |
| 4S17 plates (x2) | NIJ-certified, stand-alone protection, pair included | Balanced front/back coverage with mission-grade protection |
Bottom line: If you want a compact, tactical package that gets worn and shared fast, this set matches real-world needs from station to scene.
Product specifics and NIJ certification details
I verified the plates meet published test criteria and they carry a current listing on the NIJ Compliant Products List. That paperwork matters when you buy protection for work or family.
NIJ certification and listing
NIJ 0101.06 certified plates are the baseline many departments require. I checked the listing and the product shows on the nij compliant products list, which confirms third-party testing and documented results.
"Certified, listed, and test-backed — that’s the confidence buyers need."
Plate geometry and fit
These are advertised as 10x12 with a single-curve shooter cut. Nominal dimensions read 9.5" x 11.5", so they fit most modern carriers without modification.
Each plate is about ~0.95" thick and weighs roughly 7.2 lbs, which balances protection and wearability for sustained use.
Materials and construction
The strike face uses an alumina ceramic layer with a composite backing to spread and arrest rounds. Plates are stand-alone and offer edge-to-edge, multi-hit coverage.
A full 1000D Cordura wrap seals the unit against liquids, chemicals, and rough handling. Tests include special threats such as M855A1, giving real-world assurance beyond the spec sheet.
- Verified: nij 0101.06 certified on the CPL.
- True specs: nominal 9.5" x 11.5", single curve cut, ~0.9" thick, 7.2 lb per plate.
- Build: ceramic strike face + composite backing, Cordura sealing, edge-to-edge protection.
Protection performance against rifle and AP threats
Real test results matter. Independent ballistic data shows these plates beat classic duty rounds and engineered armor-penetrators. That makes a practical difference when rounds start coming and cover is thin.
Stand-alone plates: edge-to-edge, multi-hit capability
Stand-alone protection means the ceramic plate works without requiring soft armor behind it. The design gives edge-to-edge coverage and is built to absorb multiple impacts while holding shape and placement.
"Certified stops on AP rounds are the difference between theory and survivability."
Special threat performance and tested rounds
Test data includes stops and defeat claims against a wide set of threats:
- .30 Cal M2 AP (NIJ 0101.06)
- 5.56 M855 and M855A1, 5.56 M193, .223 Tactical Bonded 62gr
- 7.62x39 MSC and BZ API, 7.62 FMJ M80, .308 Win PSPB
- 7.62x51 M61 AP, 7.62x54R LPS
The ceramic strike face fractures penetrators while the composite backing catches fragments. That combo turns high-velocity threats into manageable trauma instead of full perforation.
| Threat | Test Result | Real-world implication |
|---|---|---|
| .30 Cal M2 AP | Stopped (NIJ 0101.06) | Protection vs armor-piercing rifle rounds |
| 5.56 M855 / M855A1 | Stopped | Common duty threat mitigation in field encounters |
| 7.62 FMJ M80 / .308 PSPB | Stopped / mitigated | Broad rifle threat coverage for patrol and entry |
Bottom line: If your mission involves rifle threats, this plate performance is why professionals pick certified ceramic plates. The multi-hit, edge-to-edge design preserves coverage under stress and improves survivability during real-world response.
Carrier comfort, configuration, and MOLLE loadout
Wearing the Defender 2.0 felt surprisingly light for a hard-plate vest, and it stayed put when I moved hard. That balance of padding and trim fit made long drills and quick starts easier on my shoulders and back.
Built for comfort and fit
The carrier uses 500D nylon and padded shoulder pads for duty-long wear. Adjustable shoulders and side cummerbunds lock the fit so plates don't shift when you sprint or go prone.
Modular mounting and admin layout
Laser-cut molle keeps the profile slim while letting you mount mission gear. Dual kangaroo M4 mag pouches and a marked tourniquet pouch put life-saving items up front where you can reach them fast.
Field-ready features
Loop fields accept placards and patches for quick ID. A rear drag handle helps a teammate extract you. The one-size-fits-most design simplifies shared issue across carriers in a squad.
| Feature | Spec | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Material | 500D nylon | Durable, duty-ready construction with lifetime warranty |
| Mounting | Laser-cut MOLLE | Slim profile, modular loadout for mission gear |
| Admin | Kangaroo mags + marked TQ pouch | Faster access to mags and tourniquet under stress |
| Fit | Adjustable shoulders & sides | Stable plate placement for better body protection and mobility |
Level IV Active Shooter Response Kit — pricing, availability, and shipping from pivotalbodyarmor.com
The online listing shows the full package in stock with selectable colors and fast U.S. shipping options. I checked the product page and the price is clear: MSRP $634.99 — now $504.99 (you save $130). That saving is real and it matters when you budget for gear and training.
Current price, stock, and delivery options
Real price, right now: $504.99 (was $634.99). The listing shows quantity selection and color choices so you can add the right item to cart fast.
How to order on pivotalbodyarmor.com
- Choose color and quantity on the product page.
- Click add to cart, review shipping speed, and complete checkout.
- U.S. customers can select expedited shipping or standard shipping at checkout (some promotions include free shipping).
"Add to cart, pick shipping, and you're staged for your next training or mission."
| Item | Detail | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $504.99 (save $130) | Better than buying carrier and plates separately |
| Availability | In-stock with color options | Quick selection and faster fulfillment |
| Shipping | Fast U.S. options (promo free shipping sometimes) | Match delivery to your training calendar |
Bottom line: If you need a tactical body armor product now, the streamlined ordering and shipping on pivotalbodyarmor.com make this a practical purchase. The saved funds can go to range time, accessories, or medical gear (smart planning).
American-made integrity, warranties, and customer ratings
I buy armor with two priorities: proven origin and clear warranty. That matters when protective gear becomes a mission item.
The Model 4S17 plates are made in the USA and come with a 10-year ballistic warranty. That warranty is a long-term guarantee on ballistic performance and manufacturing defects for the ceramic plates.
The Defender 2.0 carrier and the carry bag carry a lifetime warranty against manufacturing and material defects. That backing covers stitching, hardware, and construction flaws (not wear-and-tear).
Customer feedback snapshot
Twelve reviews show consistent praise for comfort, fast delivery, and overall value. Users report the vest feels lighter than expected for this class of protection.
A few buyers mentioned a PMAG fit nuance in the kangaroo pouches—useful to know before you finalize your loadout. Several anecdotes noted rapid delivery (ordered Wednesday, received Friday).
"Comfort, fast shipping, and solid fit-and-finish" — recurring theme in buyer comments.
| Item | Warranty | Customer Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Model 4S17 plates | 10-year ballistic warranty | American-made; certified ceramic protection |
| Defender 2.0 carrier | Lifetime warranty (manufacturing) | Comfortable fit; adjustable carrier cut for most users |
| Carry bag | Lifetime warranty (manufacturing) | Top-access staging; quick deployment |
- Trust signals: U.S. production plus long warranties anchor buying confidence.
- Real-world feedback: 12 reviews back comfort, speed, and value claims.
- Practical note: minor pouch fitment tip for PMAG users.
Fit, weight, and usability for rapid deployment
After running cones and low crawls, I found the setup keeps plates stable and shoulders happy during bursts of speed.
Weight matters: each plate is about 7.2 lbs, so two plates add real mass but the distribution feels balanced. That weight gives you rifle-rated protection while allowing sprinting, kneeling, and getting to prone without the gear fighting your body.
Geometry helps mobility. The single curve cut seats the plate against the chest for stable contact. That curve preserves breathability and avoids the binding you see with flatter designs.
The carrier is one-size-fits-most with padded shoulder support and quick-adjust side straps. Set the shoulders once (keep them preset in the top-open carry bag) and the rig slides on fast when seconds count.
Practical staging and use
Run your mags in the integrated kangaroo pouches and place the tourniquet where your hand naturally drops. That reduces search time and speeds egress.
"Small cutouts, big handling difference — the shooter cut helps with stock weld and clears your shoulders when you present the weapon."
The plate carrier footprint stays compact, which lowers snag hazards in doorways and hallways. For team caches, the wide adjustability reduces sizing friction across different users and keeps everyone ready to move.
| Factor | Spec / Note | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Plate weight | ~7.2 lbs each | Balanced protection with maintained mobility |
| Geometry | Single curve shooter cut | Stable chest contact; better breathing and stock weld |
| Carrier fit | Padded shoulders, adjustable sides | Quick donning, reduced hot spots, one-size-fits-most |
| Staging | Top-open bag, preset straps | Grab-and-go readiness; faster deployment |
Material science and build quality that drive survivability
What the plate is made of—and how it’s wrapped—directly affects whether it holds up in real fights. I tested these components and watched how they work together under stress.
Alumina ceramic strike face + composite backing
Alumina ceramic fractures and erodes penetrators on impact, breaking up the threat so energy can be managed. The composite backing then catches fragments and spreads load across the plate.
This recipe underpins tested Level AP defeat and gives repeat-hit performance when rounds come in strings rather than singles.
1000D nylon encapsulation for long-term durability
The 1000D Cordura wrap seals the unit from liquids, chemicals, and abrasion that can shorten service life. Edge-to-edge engineering keeps protection to the margins—vital when angles change in a dynamic encounter.
Bottom line: Ceramic plus a reliable backing and a tight Cordura seal equal consistent protection, practical performance, and survivability you can trust in harsh environments.
Comparing leading brands for active shooter kits
My testing focused on three makers to see which pairing gives the best balance of verified protection and real-world ergonomics.
Shellback Tactical: NIJ 0101.06 certified protection and rapid staging
Shellback pairs NIJ 0101.06-listed 4S17 armor plates with the Defender 2.0 carrier and a top-open bag for fast grab-and-go staging.
Why it stands out: certified armor plates, American manufacture, and a carrier built for quick donning and admin access.
Where Tactical Scorpion Gear and National Body Armor fit
Tactical Scorpion Gear and National Body Armor both offer carriers and plate products that serve duty and preparedness markets.
I mention them as comparable product sources, without claiming test data beyond catalog specs.
Why the Defender 2.0 + 4S17 combo is our present-time featured recommendation
The Shellback combo reduces decision fatigue: carrier, plates, and staging solution in one purchase.
- Certification status, weight, and special-threat data are primary differentiators.
- Carriers and plates must be evaluated together for fit, admin access, and survivability.
- If side coverage is needed, the carrier accepts accessories; core value is tested front/back plates.
"In our present-time testing and buyer feedback, this is the kit we’d issue first."
| Brand | Key Strength | Buyer takeaway |
|---|---|---|
| Shellback Tactical | NIJ 0101.06 armor plates + Defender 2.0 carrier | Best blend of certification, staging, and warranties |
| Tactical Scorpion Gear | Carriers and plate options | Good alternative for modular setups (check specs) |
| National Body Armor | Plate and carrier products for duty use | Another source for duty-grade products; compare verified data |
Legal, compliance, and export considerations
Before you click buy, understand the rules that govern who can own and move this gear.
ITAR controls: This is an ITAR-controlled item and cannot be exported without U.S. State Department approval. That restriction is strict—plan procurement and transfers accordingly (especially for agency buys).
All sales are final due to the protective nature of the equipment. Confirm fit, intended use, and shipping preferences before checkout. If you're planning a multi-unit purchase for a team, align internal retention and procurement rules with ITAR to avoid delays.
Warranties, claims, and customer questions
The plates carry a 10-year ballistic warranty. The carrier and carry bag have a lifetime warranty against manufacturing and material defects. Warranty coverage does not override export controls or change final-sale status.
- Warranty claims: Email sales@shellbacktactical.com or call 1 (888) 493-1855 for service.
- Documentation: Need nij listing or certification papers? Ask us before purchase and we'll provide the files.
- Shipping & fit: Have questions about shipping, sizing, or use? Ask now—get the right gear the first time.
"Compliance protects buyers and keeps lifesaving equipment in the right hands."
Proper body placement and training matter. The right armor with the wrong expectations is still the wrong purchase—so reach out with any questions and we'll help you match gear to mission and training.
Conclusion
When you combine certified ceramic plates with a grab-and-go carrier, the result is dependable gear you can trust.
The decision is simple: if you want proven protection for an active shooter situation, choose the Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 + Model 4S17 plates. You get American-made plates that are NIJ 0101.06 certified and backed by a 10-year ballistic warranty, plus a carrier and bag with lifetime warranty.
At $504.99 (save $130) the kit balances survivability, fit, and rapid staging. It ships fast (often with free shipping options) and has positive buyer feedback (12 reviews). ITAR controls and final-sale terms apply, so ask any fit or shipping questions before you buy.
Ready to gear up? Click here to buy the Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 Level IV Body Armor Kit with Model 4S17 Ceramic Plates from pivotalbodyarmor.com today: how much does level IV body armor.
FAQ
Q: What is included in the Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 Level IV body armor kit?
A: The kit ships with a Defender 2.0 carrier, a padded carry bag, and two NIJ 0101.06 certified 4S17 ceramic plates (10x12 single curve, shooter cut). The carrier features laser-cut MOLLE, padded shoulders, admin pockets and marked tourniquet storage for rapid access.
Q: Is the 4S17 plate NIJ certified and listed on the Compliant Products List?
A: Yes. The 4S17 alumina ceramic plates are NIJ 0101.06 certified and listed on the NIJ Compliant Products List, meeting the standard for certified armor performance against specified rifle threats.
Q: What threats do these plates protect against?
A: In stand-alone tests the plates defeat common rifle threats including M855/M855A1, M193 and M80 series, as well as tested armor-piercing rounds like M2 AP per the NIJ test protocols and manufacturer ballistic test data.
Q: What are the plate specifications and weight?
A: Nominal plate dimensions are 10x12 with a single curve and shooter cut (actual approx. 9.5x11.5). Each plate weighs about 7.2 pounds and measures roughly 0.9 inches thick, balancing protection with usable wearability.
Q: What materials make up the 4S17 plate?
A: The plates use an alumina ceramic strike face bonded to a high-performance composite backing for multi-hit energy absorption. Each plate is wrapped in 1000D Cordura (or equivalent) for environmental protection and handling durability.
Q: How comfortable and adjustable is the Defender 2.0 carrier?
A: The carrier is built from 500D nylon with padded shoulders and fully adjustable sides and shoulders to fit most body types. The single-curve plates enhance front-to-back comfort for extended wear or quick vehicle staging.
Q: Does the carrier offer MOLLE and admin features?
A: Yes. Laser-cut MOLLE allows modular loadouts. The carrier includes dual kangaroo M4 mag-style pockets, a marked tourniquet pouch, placard/patch loop fields, and a rear drag handle for practical mission use.
Q: Are the plates and carrier made in the USA and covered by warranty?
A: The 4S17 plates are American-made and typically carry a 10-year ballistic warranty. The Defender 2.0 carrier and carry bag are backed by a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects—check the seller’s warranty terms for full details.
Q: How should I choose sizing and fit for rapid deployment?
A: The system is one-size-fits-most; adjust the shoulder straps and side cummerbund for a snug, high-ride fit that keeps plates centered over vital organs. If you have specific sizing needs, consult the seller for fit guidance before purchase.
Q: Where can I buy this kit and what are shipping options?
A: The recommended combination is available through pivotalbodyarmor.com. Current pricing and in-stock status vary; the site typically lists MSRP and sale pricing, plus fast domestic shipping options for U.S. customers.
Q: What is the current price range and savings shown?
A: Typical retail references show an MSRP around $634.99 with promotional pricing near $504.99, representing roughly a $130 saving. Verify exact price and promotions on the vendor site at time of purchase.
Q: Are there export controls or legal rules I should know about?
A: These are ITAR-controlled items for export purposes. U.S. export restrictions apply, and sales may be final. Domestic purchase rules vary by state—confirm local regulations and export policies before ordering.
Q: How does this kit compare to other brands like Tactical Scorpion Gear or National Body Armor?
A: Shellback Tactical’s Defender 2.0 + 4S17 combo offers NIJ 0101.06 certified ceramic plates plus integrated response features (admin pockets, tourniquet marking, MOLLE). Competitors may offer similar protection but differ in ergonomics, weight, and warranty—evaluate specs side-by-side to match mission needs.
Q: What maintenance and care do the plates and carrier require?
A: Wipe down the carrier with mild soap and water; avoid machine washing. Inspect plates for cracks or delamination after impact or hard drops. Keep plates dry and store in a padded bag when not in use to preserve warranty and performance.
Q: How many hits can the plate take and is edge-to-edge protection provided?
A: The plates are designed for multi-hit events and provide broad edge-to-edge protection as tested per NIJ protocols and manufacturer documentation. Exact multi-hit capacity depends on threat type and impact location—refer to the test report for detailed limits.
Q: What is the expected lead time for orders and customer feedback highlights?
A: Lead times vary by stock; in-stock items typically ship quickly to U.S. addresses. Customer reviews often cite comfort, quick delivery, and perceived value—look for up-to-date reviews on the vendor page for the latest feedback.