A Comprehensive Guide to Selecting the Right Plates for Your Plate Carrier
As a military or law enforcement professional, choosing the right equipment to keep yourself safe is imperative. One of the most important pieces of equipment to consider is your plate carrier. A good Plate Carrier will keep you protected in a dangerous situation, but it’s the type of plates you select that will determine just how much protection you have. In this article, we’ll take a comprehensive look at selecting the right plates for your plate carrier so that you can stay safe in any situation.
Types of Plates
The first thing you need to consider when selecting the right plates for your plate carrier is the type of plates that are available. There are three types of plates: steel, ceramic, and ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE).
Steel plates are the oldest type of plates, and while they are durable and can stop most rounds, they are also very heavy. Ceramic plates are lighter and offer better protection, but are also very expensive. Finally, UHMWPE plates are lightweight and can even stop armor-piercing rounds, but are also the most expensive.
Level of Protection
The next consideration is the level of protection you need from your plates. The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) has developed several standards for body armor in the U.S., which are referred to as “levels.” The higher the level number, the more protection the armor provides.
If you’re a police officer or in law enforcement, generally level IIIA or III plates are recommended. Military branches use Level IV plates, which are designed to stop armor-penetrating rounds. Determine your exposure to the threat to decide which NIJ rating to choose.
Weight of Plates
While the protection level of your plates is important, the weight is just as important to consider. Heavier plates can cause fatigue, limiting your physical ability to perform your duties. Heavy armor also slows a soldier’s response to direct fire, limiting their maneuverability and restricting their mission reach.
The weight of your chosen plate should be proportionate to your physique and the nature of your work. Lighter plates enable the operator to stay faster and more mobile while carrying all necessary equipment.
Plate Size
The final consideration for selecting the right plates for your plate carrier is the size of the plates. The plates must fit correctly to avoid mobility issues. Your plate selection should be based on your body size and body type. Purchase an armor plate that is neither too small nor too big and fits under your armor carrier cover.
Price
Last but not least, price is another crucial factor to consider when selecting the right plates for your plate carrier. While it’s always tempting to go for the cheapest option, you want to balance cost with quality. Remember, the plates you choose will protect you from dangerous situations, so you want them to be high quality.
Choosing the right plates for your plate carrier is crucial to keeping you safe during dangerous situations. Consider the type of plates, protection level, weight, size and price of each option before making your selection. Whether you are a law enforcement professional or in the military, investing in the best possible plate selection is an important purchase to ensure your safety. By taking into account each of these factors, you can make an informed decision and have the peace of mind of knowing that you are fully protected.
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