Why You Should Own Body Armor

Body Armor Basics

A body armor system consists of two components: 1) the plate carrier and 2) the individual ballistic panels / plates. For increased protection, the wearer can also add an anti-spall trauma pad which further reduces risk of injury from a bullet's impact.

Minimalist rigs typically incorporate ceramic plates or soft armor inserts, whereas a fully kitted out plate carrier is usually paired with steel plates or other high-quality armor panels rated for bigger threats. Moreover, carriers designated for patrol or duty use often feature an attachment system for mounting magazine pouches, tourniquet holders, etc.

Guard Dog - Cerberus Plate Carrier - Flat Dark Earth - CERBERUS-FDE
Guard Dog - Cerberus Plate Carrier - Flat Dark Earth - CERBERUS-FDE
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Guard Dog Body Armor Sheppard Plate Carrier - Black- W/ Quick Disconnects - SHEPPARD-BLK
Guard Dog Body Armor Sheppard Plate Carrier - Black- W/ Quick Disconnects - SHEPPARD-BLK
$125 00

Levels Of Protection

Different plates are rated for different threats under the National Institute Of Justice's Compliance Testing Program. The different levels of ballistic protection are as follows:

  • Level IIIA - Protects against 9mm, .357 Magnum, .357 Sig, .44 Magnum and 12 GA
  • Level III - Stops all previous threats plus 7.62x39, 7.62 NATO, and 5.56 NATO ball ammo
  • Level III+* - Stops all previous threats plus 5.56 M193 and M855 Green Tip
  • Level IV - Stops all previous threats plus 5.56 M855, 7.62x39,  .308 Win, and a single .30-06 M2 Armor Piercing round
  • Level IV+* - Stops all previous threats plus multiple .30-06 Armor Piercing rounds

* Not a standardized NIJ level. This rating reflects an additional layer of protection above the previous NIJ level, but below the next.

Why Wear Body Armor?

Unfortunately, there are some locations where it's inconvenient or even illegal to carry your EDC firearm with you. Body armor offers an additional layer of defense when you need it most and there are options for type of lifestyle.

The world can be a dangerous and unpredictable place. Even if you are prepared and train with your firearm regularly, you might still end up shot in which case it's better to have body armor to minimize the damage so you have the greatest chance of survival.

Selecting The Right Armor For You

To determine which type of body armor is best for you, it's crucial to consider your objectives. Do you want lightweight, concealable armor you can wear with anything? Perhaps the slim IIIA option below would suit your needs.

Guard Dog Level 3A Concealable Body Armor Vest - Size Large - GDA-CONCEAL-L
Guard Dog Level 3A Concealable Body Armor Vest - Size Large - GDA-CONCEAL-L
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Or you might want a full kit, in which case we recommend something like the Guard Dog Body Armor Protection Package paired with the plate carrier of your choice.

Guard Dog Body Armor Standalone 10X12 Level IV Ballistic Plate - Single Curve - Shooter Cut - Tested to NIJ Standards - IVPLATE
Guard Dog Body Armor Standalone 10X12 Level IV Ballistic Plate - Single Curve - Shooter Cut - Tested to NIJ Standards - IVPLATE
$165 00 $179.99

Testing Body Armor

Want to find out which military-caliber bullets body armor will stop? Watch our video testing several Guard Dog Body Armor plates with various rifle rounds.

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