Are you looking to enhance your body armor setup? A spall guard could be the perfect addition. At PivotalBodyArmor, we offer a range of spall guards and other armor accessories to help you stay protected. Here's what you need to know about this vital piece of gear.
Spall Guards 101: The Basics
A spall guard is a protective layer that fits over hard body armor plates. Its main purpose is to contain spalling - fragments that can break off the plate when it's hit by a bullet. Without a spall guard, these high-velocity fragments could cause injury to the wearer's arms, neck, or face.
Spall guards are typically made from ballistic fabric like Kevlar. They envelop the armor plate, trapping any spall inside. Some guards also have a "swimsuit cut" that extends the coverage to the upper arm area.
Why Use a Spall Guard?
There are several reasons to add a spall guard to your body armor setup:
- Contain dangerous spall fragments
- Extend coverage area
- Protect armor plates from wear and tear
- Customize the look of your gear
While plates alone offer robust protection from bullets, the risk of spalling injuries is very real, especially in military and law enforcement contexts. Spall guards provide an extra layer of defense.
Types of Spall Guards
PivotalBodyArmor stocks two main types of spall guards:
| Guard Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Plate Carrier Spall Guards | Attach to plate carriers, fitting over the armor plates |
| Standalone Spall Guards | Can be worn with or without a plate carrier |
Within these categories, we offer spall guards in various cuts and designs to fit different plate sizes and body types. Choose from guards with full neck and upper arm coverage to simpler rectangle designs.
Spall Guard Materials
Most spall guards are constructed from ultra-strong polyethylene fibers. This lightweight synthetic material is known for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio. It's capable of stopping spall and fragmentation at high velocities.
Look for guards made with multiple layers of material for maximum spall containment. Our Caliber Armor spall guards, for example, use layered polyethylene for a versatile, reliable design.
Spall Guard Sizing
Spall guards are sized to fit over specific armor plate dimensions. Be sure to choose a guard that matches your plates. Common plate sizes include:
- 8" x 10"
- 10" x 12"
- 11" x 14"
Measure your plates before ordering to ensure a perfect fit. If you're unsure, feel free to reach out to our experts for guidance.
Attaching Spall Guards
The process for attaching a spall guard depends on the design. Some simply slide over the plates and are held in place by the plate bag. Others have hook-and-loop fasteners or ties that secure around the plate.
Standalone spall guards typically have straps that allow the guard to be worn like a vest. These can be a good choice for users who don't always wear a plate carrier.
Spall Guard Maintenance
To keep your spall guard in top condition, follow these tips:
- Inspect regularly for signs of wear
- Brush off dirt and debris after each use
- Hand wash with mild detergent as needed
- Air dry completely before storing
With proper care, a quality spall guard can last for years, providing reliable protection mission after mission.
Spall Guards and NIJ Rating
While spall guards are not explicitly addressed in the NIJ's body armor standards, any spalling contained by the guard would not be a factor in the armor's NIJ rating.
That said, using an NIJ-certified spall guard in conjunction with NIJ-rated plates provides maximum overall protection. All of our spall guards meet demanding industry specifications.
Choosing the Right Spall Guard
With many spall guard options on the market, how do you pick the right one? Here are some factors to consider:
- Plate size and shape - Ensure the guard will fit your plates
- Coverage area - Decide how much of your upper body you want to protect
- Attachment method - Consider how the guard integrates with your existing gear
- Material - Look for proven, high-strength ballistic fabrics
- Brand reputation - Choose a well-regarded manufacturer like Spartan Armor Systems
At the end of the day, the right spall guard is the one that meets your individual protection needs and integrates seamlessly with your kit.
PivotalBodyArmor: Your Source for Spall Guards
We're proud to carry a wide selection of spall guards from trusted brands like Shellback Tactical, Tactical Scorpion Gear, and more. Whether you're in law enforcement, the military, or are a tactical enthusiast, we have the armor accessories you need to stay safe.
Have questions about spall guards or need help choosing the right one? Contact our team for expert advice. We're here to help you find the perfect spall guard solution.