Level 4 plates are body armor plates rated under the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) 0101.06 standard to withstand at least one round of .30 caliber armor-piercing (M2 AP) ammunition before becoming compromised. They offer the highest level of ballistic protection currently certified by the NIJ.
Here's a breakdown:
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Ballistic Protection: Level IV plates are designed to stop high-velocity rifle rounds, including armor-piercing bullets.
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NIJ Standard: The NIJ 0101.06 standard sets the testing criteria and performance requirements for body armor. Level IV is the highest rating within this standard.
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Threat Level: These plates are typically used in situations where there is a high risk of encountering rifle fire, such as military combat or law enforcement tactical operations.
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M2 AP Ammunition: The key characteristic of Level IV plates is their ability to defeat a single hit from a 7.62x63mm M2 Armor Piercing (AP) bullet with a specified mass and velocity.
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Compromised: After being struck by the designated threat, the plate may no longer provide the same level of protection against subsequent impacts.
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Considerations: While offering excellent protection, Level IV plates are generally heavier and bulkier than lower-rated plates, impacting mobility and comfort. Therefore, the choice of body armor should consider the specific threats and operational requirements.
In summary, Level IV plates represent the peak of NIJ-certified ballistic protection, offering defense against armor-piercing rifle rounds, albeit often at the cost of increased weight and reduced maneuverability.
