Affortable body armor that is not AR500?

[thisguy65]

Looking for III+ body armor that is not AR500 in shooter cut is possible. Single curve is ok but if multi can be had for a little more that will be fine. Budget is 350-500 for front and back. Needs to fit in mayflower APC 10x12 is the pocket size.

[TommyG]

SKD has a package with plates and a carrier for $498.00.

Disclaimer - I know SKD as a reputable vendor but have no knowledge/experience with armor. Hopefully someone in the know can comment on whether this is a viable option.

[texancarbine73]

Easy. Highcom

[thisguy65]

Easy. Highcom

They sure as hell don't give much information on the differences of x y z model.

[texancarbine73]

They sure as hell don't give much information on the differences of x y z model.

How come? You can click on each plate and get weight and description. You can call as well, they are very helpful.
They have level 4 and level 3 certified for DEA protocol to stop xm855, 193, etc.
Multi curve as well. Mine are very very comfortable in mayflower

[thisguy65]

How come? You can click on each plate and get weight and description. You can call as well, they are very helpful.
They have level 4 and level 3 certified for DEA protocol to stop xm855, 193, etc.
Multi curve as well. Mine are very very comfortable in mayflower

4sas7 vs 4s17 for example..both are rated the same and same weight (10x12 size). I'm just saying a little more description would help, maybe a chart for the "new guys". I'll defiantly give them a ring.

http://highcomsecurity.com/collections/plates/products/guardian-4sas-7?variant=361416603

http://highcomsecurity.com/collections/plates/products/guardian-4s17?variant=536337453

[Dump1567]

I have some Highcom. You can also find good deals on ebay.

[texancarbine73]

I hear you. Check materials and thickness as well. For example I saw those two when trying to decide and I decided if they weigh the same, has same stoppage level but one costs more then I'm going with the cheaper ;)
Give them a call they are very helpful.
Cheers

4sas7 vs 4s17 for example..both are rated the same and same weight (10x12 size). I'm just saying a little more description would help, maybe a chart for the "new guys". I'll defiantly give them a ring.

http://highcomsecurity.com/collections/plates/products/guardian-4sas-7?variant=361416603

http://highcomsecurity.com/collections/plates/products/guardian-4s17?variant=536337453

[Endur]

SKD or bulletproofme.com

I own a set of the SKD plates and I believe they are made by Velocity Systems for SKD. They are GTG. They are 6.7lbs per plate. The bulletproofme level IV stand alones are 6.7lbs as well but they are multi-curve and cost $220 per plate versus SKD at $189 per plate.

http://www.skdtac.com/SKD-Armor-10-x-12-Level-IV-Stand-Alone-Plate-p/amr.905.htm

http://bulletproofme.com/RP-Level-4-Stand-Alone.html

[Dakota Kid]

I have a set of HighCom 4SAS7 in my Mayflower APC. I think some of the differences between plates were in which federal testing protocols were followed.

[jpgm]

Have you looked into Tyr Tactical?
Level 3+ plates at 3.62 lbs and .5" thick, $495. I don't
know if anyone here has a set and comment on them.

jpgm

[jpgm]

You may have to disregard my previous post. I overlooked the "affordable" portion and in the title.

jpgm

[Jellybean]

If the OP is looking for triple curve shooter/swimmer cut plates like those with SKD's Brig package (also sold separately on SKD if you already have a PC) in triple curve, you will not find them. At least apparently not on the civilian market- I tried a while back, no joy.

So, you've got two options;

Single curve plates that can be found for cheap (like the SKD plates, or Hesco plates from AT Armor, etc.), or raise the budget slightly and invest in multi-curve plates.


Personally, if the OP can save a little more and raise the budget a bit (approx. $200 more for a set, including IIIA backers), I would highly recommend investing in triple curve plates. The difference in fit and comfort is, IMO, well worth every extra penny you'll spend.

[Alex V]

I have the BulletProofMe stand alone IV plates. They were under $500 for both and fit perfectly in my Medium size JPC. The guys from the store were also super helpful and even had the plates drop shipped to me direct from manufacturer because I was short on time.

[thisguy65]

Thanks guys, Thinking just single curve will do. These plates will be just for class purposes really. Not for duty or job.

Since the classes are shoot houses (close quarters) thinking Single curve level 3a+

[nova3930]

The coupon STAYSAFE will get you 30% off at Highcom. With that their Active Shooter Response kit which is front and back plates is <$225.

http://highcomsecurity.com/collections/plates/products/active-shooter-response-kit-plates-only?variant=364535231

[thisguy65]

The coupon STAYSAFE will get you 30% off at Highcom. With that their Active Shooter Response kit which is front and back plates is <$225.

http://highcomsecurity.com/collections/plates/products/active-shooter-response-kit-plates-only?variant=364535231

Code doesn't work :(

[thecelt]

I like to buy from skd myself. But if your looking for affordable plates go to ebay. I bought plates from cati armor and they are quality plates. I have no affiliation, but they seem to be the best priced plates out there.

http://m.ebay.com/itm/221566353529?_mwBanner=1

[nova3930]

Code doesn't work :(

Look around there are a couple others of lesser discount that may still work

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[DevL]

We have guys at the station using the 3+ bulletproofme.com ceramic/poly plates. The 10x12 single curved, 10x12 multicurved, and Medium SAPI. Very light and comfortable. Fits your budget. The multicurve is WAY more comfortable and you will kick yourself for single curve if you are not built like an egg or a pro bodybuilder (ie. have a normal shaped body).

[thisguy65]

Since I have never worn plates how does he SAPI? My carrier is made for SAPI and feel I should go with them since the carrier is made for it, correct thinking?

Sure anything else will fit but I do not want the plate moving around inside. My concern with SAPI is mobility over say shooter cut.

[kaltesherz]

Since I have never worn plates how does he SAPI? My carrier is made for SAPI and feel I should go with them since the carrier is made for it, correct thinking?

Sure anything else will fit but I do not want the plate moving around inside. My concern with SAPI is mobility over say shooter cut.

SAPI / ESAPI's are comfortable and easy to use, the entire Military wears them. Mobility won't be an issue.

[herkle]

The 3+ lightweight composite from bulletproofme.com and infidelbodyarmor.com are made and also sold by armour-wear.com [if I recall correctly]. I have a set in 10x12 multicurve shooter cut in my Mayflower APC same size as yours. The 10x12 shooter cut leaves about an inch gap at the top of the APC due to the corners, which isn't a problem since the APC fits snug and tight anyhow. Bulletproofme has the medium SAPI cut version in stock, however, which should fit your APC perfectly. Upper end of your budget but within range; that one is multicurve too. The one at infidel is shooter cut,but you can get 10% off if you join their $10/month club which pays for itself 4.5x over with that purchase. I'm not affiliated with any of these guys, just been shopping for plates the past couple months.

[Alex V]

Since I have never worn plates how does he SAPI? My carrier is made for SAPI and feel I should go with them since the carrier is made for it, correct thinking?

Sure anything else will fit but I do not want the plate moving around inside. My concern with SAPI is mobility over say shooter cut.

I have SAPI cut plates and the mobility is not an issue. My only problem is the edge of the plate is right where the stock of my rifle would go so I have to modify how I shoulder the gun.

[cop1211]

Any issues with AR500?

[YO_Doc]

Have you looked into Tyr Tactical?
Level 3+ plates at 3.62 lbs and .5" thick, $495. I don't
know if anyone here has a set and comment on them.

jpgm

I've been running these plates for about a year now in a APC-MBAV, they are very nice and thin, oh yeah they are very light as well. Previously I was running some Ceradyne plates that were about 2 LBS heaver, there is a noticeable difference in weight between the two sets of plates. Especially in you are getting up and down off the ground many times a day. The only bitch that I have with the TYR plates is a large label that states do not submerge.

[Jim D]

Any issues with AR500?

Lots, like failures at high velocity with 55gr ammo.

[xm15]

if you are still looking the bulletproofme lvl 4 SA that are 6.7lb@ $220 each are good. made by LTC.
Back Plate
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/moorerick55/Mobile%20Uploads/20150306_212521_zpslgyh960r.jpg (http://s95.photobucket.com/user/moorerick55/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20150306_212521_zpslgyh960r.jpg.html)

Front Plate
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/moorerick55/Mobile%20Uploads/20150306_212257_zpsqh69lfdu.jpg (http://s95.photobucket.com/user/moorerick55/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20150306_212257_zpsqh69lfdu.jpg.html)

[DevL]

Any issues with AR500?

Yeah it sucks... its heavy as hell, fits horribly, smacks me in the head or chin while putting it on, is defeated by velocities over 3250 fps and is basically the worst possible thing you could do if you are considering buying armor and actually wearing it frequently. No one I know that has AR500 armor and wears it intends to keep it. The only people who like it are people who do not wear it regularly and have it for some disaster or something and leave it in storage. Everyone else gets a III+ hybrid plate, usually multicurved, and enjoys lightweight, padded, form fitting comfort that defeats more threats than some cheesy AR500.

[Caeser25]

Any issues with AR500?

Weight, being susceptible to penetratjon from high velocity rounds out of long barrels at close range. AR500 Armor brand has a new 3+ that isn't as susceptible as the older stuff. It will stop m193 at close range. They make a shooters cut or swimmers cut that's 5.5 pounds.

I bought a set to keep in my vehicle after San Bernardino due to durability of sitting in a vehicle.

[mrvip27]

Any input on these plates? I know they are out of OP price range, but I think we could all benefit from me asking
http://www.greyghostgear.com/product-p/3610.htm
https://www.spartanarmorsystems.com/level-iv-spartan-body-armor-triple-curve-comfort/
http://store.appalachiantraining.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=AT-STOP-MED
http://store.appalachiantraining.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=AT-ATP3

[Ernst]

When it comes to body armor, I'm not sure looking for the lowest price and lower quality is really that good of an idea. Just my .02.

I've got buddies whose lives were saved by the best quality ceramic armor available, provided of course, by Uncle Sugar, but they will never settle for anything less. I guess taking an AK47 round from 50 feet away to the chest and living to tell the tale will do that to a guy though.

:)

[jpmuscle]

So if cost wasn't an issue and we're quantifying affordable as being the best and lightest for ones dollars what would you guys run?

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[HKGuns]

I have the BulletProofMe stand alone IV plates. They were under $500 for both and fit perfectly in my Medium size JPC. The guys from the store were also super helpful and even had the plates drop shipped to me direct from manufacturer because I was short on time.

This is my situation as well. Couldn't be more pleased and the tests done on these plates are impressive.

[ExplorinInTheWoods]

Armour-wear.com i got a set of level 4 MC shipped for $265 when they had a sale last month. With my PIG plate carrier the set up weighs 16 pounds

[Caeser25]

So if cost wasn't an issue and we're quantifying affordable as being the best and lightest for ones dollars what would you guys run?

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Best and lightweight.

http://www.midwestarmor.com/body-armor

http://store.appalachiantraining.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=VS-PBZ-SA

[jpmuscle]

Best and lightweight.

http://www.midwestarmor.com/body-armor

http://store.appalachiantraining.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=VS-PBZ-SA
Yea. Those special threat plates are next on my list to buy. Ive been researching around trying to find a combo of Lvl 3 ICW plates and backers that will be 10lbs or less total weight but I've come up with zip. The Lvl 4s would get me there but I'm still unsure of ditching the backers from a comfort standpoint.

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[mrvip27]

Would have to save some pretty $$ for each of those VS plates.

[jpmuscle]

Would have to save some pretty $$ for each of those VS plates.
Totally worth it though.

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[mrvip27]

Totally worth it though.

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For the weight especially. Are they m193 rated?

[jpmuscle]

For the weight especially. Are they m193 rated?
I believe so. Wouldn't hurt to reach out to mike and ask. I know the ICW plates are rated for it.

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