When it comes to body armor, it has become a more and more researched topic when it comes to individuals around the country. I have spoken to individuals in multiple states asking their opinions on it, and when it comes to body armor, they have either thought about purchasing it or made the jump to buy it.
This choice is something that I believe is a good thing when it comes to the public.
It allows individuals the opportunity to get an added layer of protection to their life, and it also allows an individual to be able to train on the range under conditions that they may not be used to experiencing.
I have found myself in this position of wondering whether I should invest in ballistic plates and a carrier.
During my research, I found a few different companies that caught my attention, some making ceramic plates and some making steel plates. I knew that when it came to the type of plates that I wanted to run ceramic.
I had many individuals make recommendations on different companies, but in the end, I decided to go with RMA Defense.
When it comes to RMA Defense, I decided to make sure I had the highest rating that would provide me the most protection, so I decided to go with the 10” x12” Level IV armor. When it comes to picking Level IV, the added security was worth the money.
Now when it comes to the armor, there are a few different models that you would need to consider when it comes to this rating. The one that best fits the carrier I am running is model number 1155.
When it comes to the plates, the first thing that I would like to cover is the plates’ weight. You need to expect that the armor will add weight to your body. These plates are not going to be light. The wearer needs to get used to the extra weight that they have added to their plate carrier.
According to the specs given by RMA Defense, the plate comes in at 8.3 lbs. Anyone who purchases plates needs to realize that you need two of them—one for the front and one for the back.
The inclusion of two plates will add an extra 16 lbs. and some change to the overall weight you will carry in any situation or training. When it came to the plates, I realized that I needed to make sure that I could get used to the weight fast so I would train with my carrier always on.
Key Information:
Level IV plates are multi-hit rated and have an NIJ threat level rated up to 7.62x63mm. * More information can be found in the link below. The next thing I would like to talk about with this armor is the mobility that someone would have when wearing the kit.
This plate is a 10” x12” piece of ceramic inside a plate carrier. I was able to move my arm freely and able to reach my magazines.
I could change my firearms without any problems. The plates are a single curve with a SAPI cut, which I approve of when it comes to the different armor models that you would find when searching between companies.
The first thing that I want to talk about is the range of motion. When it comes to the range of motion, I find myself not constricted at all, giving me optimal movement in any training scenario.
Getting up from the ground, whether you are on your stomach, side, or back, you’re going to know the plates are there, but it does not provide any significant constriction to the user. You will need to get comfortable with your armor and carrier, so the best thing to do is get well acquainted with it in any shooting and sitting position.
Notable Mention:
I find that when it comes to any company, I really look for a solid warranty. RMA Defense provides a ten-year warranty on their products, which I find incredibly beneficial with the way I put my gear through the wringer.
Another feature is the thickness of the carrier. When it comes to the armor, something thick will help provide more protection, but something too thick would make it awkward for the user to wear. It is a delicate balancing act.
RMA Defense offers their plates in the standard one-inch configuration. It doesn’t provide a lot of bulk, which is a make or break for me when it comes to body armor.
Too thin, and I am wary of whether or not the armor’s integrity is up to standards. If it is too thick, you are looking at something that could take away from maneuverability or even interfere with pouches or attachments on your carrier that is in the same area as the plates.
Picking out armor is something that individuals need to do their own research. It is a piece of gear that could potentially save the life of an individual that finds themselves in a line of work that demands added safety or just having it in case you may find yourself in a situation that would be considered dangerous.
By providing information on the NIJ Level IV rated body armor and its capabilities, I hope to offer more of a sound mind regarding protection for anyone who requires it.
Nicholas Torres