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.
Educational use only. Your inputs stay in your browser. Results are estimates based on the values you enter, not medical, legal, or professional advice. Confirm numbers against the manufacturer spec sheet or certifying standard before relying on them in the field.
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.