When it comes to choosing body armor, the material makes all the difference in providing reliable protection. At Pivotal Body Armor, we offer a range of options featuring the most advanced materials on the market. Let's take a look at some of the top contenders and explore what makes them so effective.
Steel body armor: Tried and true protection
Steel has long been a go-to choice for body armor due to its strength and affordability. Pivotal Body Armor's steel armor plates are crafted from hardened steel and coated for extra durability.
Pros of steel body armor:
- Extremely strong and resistant to penetration
- Economical option
- Durable and long-lasting
Cons of steel body armor:
- Heavier than other materials
- Can cause ricochets if rounds don't penetrate
- May require anti-spall coating
While steel armor remains a solid pick, especially for those on a budget, there are lighter weight alternatives that provide comparable or even superior protection.
Ceramic body armor: Lightweight and tough
Ceramic has become an increasingly popular body armor material thanks to its light weight and impressive strength-to-weight ratio. We carry several ceramic armor plates and inserts that offer top-tier protection.
Pros of ceramic body armor:
- Lighter than steel
- Excellent at absorbing and dispersing energy
- Does not deform from impacts
- Very high multi-hit protection
Cons of ceramic body armor:
- More expensive than steel
- May break down over time/after multiple hits
- Typically thicker than steel plates
| Property | Ceramic Armor | Steel Armor |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Lightweight | Heavier |
| Protection Level | III-IV | III-IV |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Thickness | Thicker | Thinner |
Ceramic armor plates are an ideal choice if lightweight protection is a priority and budget allows. The enhanced multi-hit capabilities are also a major plus.
Polyethylene body armor: The future is light
Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is one of the most exciting body armor materials available today. This remarkable fiber is incredibly strong yet lightweight, making it perfect for crafting concealable armor inserts.
Pros of polyethylene body armor:
- Extremely lightweight
- Thin and flexible
- High tensile strength
- UV, moisture, and chemical resistant
Cons of polyethylene body armor:
- Expensive to produce
- Lower protection levels than hard plates
- Doesn't hold up as well to heavier weapons
UHMWPE armor is well-suited for everyday concealable use and protection against common pistol rounds. For those seeking a higher threat level rating, it's best to opt for hard steel or ceramic plates.
Some other key things to consider when selecting body armor:
- NIJ protection level needed based on threat
- Hard vs soft armor styles
- Weight and bulk vs concealability priorities
- Single vs multi-hit protection capabilities
- Shelf life and maintenance requirements
- Budget constraints
No matter your needs, Pivotal Body Armor has you covered with a wide variety of armor featuring these cutting-edge materials. Here are some of our best-sellers:
AR500 Armor Level III+ Body Armor
Our premium AR500 Armor Level III+ body armor plates are independently tested to stop high velocity rounds up to 3000 fps. The rugged steel construction provides reliable multi-hit protection.
Spartan Armor Systems Armaply Level IV Ceramic Body Armor
Spartan Armor Systems ceramic plates are NIJ-certified standalone Level IV armor, providing the highest level of protection in a lightweight package. Perfect for first responders and military personnel.
AR500 Armor Level III Lightweight UHMWPE Body Armor 10" x 12"
Pivotal Body Armor's Level III polyethylene armor offers robust pistol round protection at an incredibly light 1.9 lbs per plate. The slim, flexible design makes it easy to wear discreetly.
Learn more about our extensive soft armor options for concealable everyday carry protection. We offer a range of threat level ratings and fits.
The bottom line is that when it comes to protective armor materials, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The most effective body armor is the one that best aligns with your unique needs, threats, and preferences.
Pivotal Body Armor is committed to providing a diverse selection of high-quality, rigorously tested armor plates and carriers to keep you safe. Explore our store to find the ideal setup for your situation. Stay safe out there!