NIJ Body Armor Guide
The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) body-armor standard rates armor on what threats it stops. Claims beyond the certified level — "Level III+" included — are marketing, not standard. Always reference the certification report for any armor you buy.
Level III+
Not a real NIJ designation — verify the manufacturer's actual test report.
- +Everything Level III stops
- +M855 / green-tip 5.56
- +Some 5.56 M193 at elevated velocities
- −M855A1 (unless specifically tested)
- −Armor-piercing rounds
Most common civilian / LE rifle-rated plate. Practical balance of weight and threat coverage.
Which level do you need?
Answer three questions. We'll recommend a starting point — then go verify the certification report on whatever you buy.
Answer all three questions above to see a recommended level.
This is a starting point, not a fitting. Read the NIJ test report for any plate before you buy, and verify it covers the specific threats you care about.
Threat Matrix
| Level | Type | Typical Weight | Stops |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level IIA | Soft | 1.5 lbs | 9mm (124gr FMJ @ 1,225 fps) |
| Level II | Soft | 2.0 lbs | 9mm (124gr FMJ @ 1,305 fps) |
| Level IIIA | Soft | 3.0 lbs | .357 SIG (125gr FMJ @ 1,470 fps) |
| Level III | Hard | 5.0 lbs | 7.62×51 NATO (M80 ball, 147gr @ 2,780 fps) |
| Level III+ | Hard | 5.6 lbs | Everything Level III stops |
| Level IV | Hard | 7.0 lbs | .30-06 M2 AP (166gr AP @ 2,880 fps) |
Recommended plates per use case
Stops M855 at bedroom distances. Moderate weight for short durations.
UHMWPE plates under 3 lbs. Long movement with minimal fatigue.
Soft armor under uniform, hard plate in carrier for active threats.
Heavy but cheap. Get used to load. Never use steel against fragmenting rounds.