The army is always there to protect its people from enemies and usually faces numerous problems and strikes. So, they need the best armor to protect themselves from bullets and shrapnels. Military men use Hard plate carriers or Ballistic armors for greater protection against rifles.
Plate carriers are available for everyone, whether you are a citizen, police officer, or military man. But the armor used by the army is totally different as they need a higher level of protection. If you are confused about what plate carrier does army use. Then read this article till the end to know more about them and get the best armor identical to the army one.
A plate carrier system is a ballistic body armor designed to protect the wearer’s torso from incoming gunfire. The system typically consists of a vest-like garment worn over the body armor and a set of metal or ceramic plates inserted into the vest. The plates are typically designed to stop high-velocity rifle bullets, and they may be backed by additional layers of Kevlar or other ballistic materials.
The plate carrier system is one of the most popular types of body armor used by military and law enforcement personnel today. It offers a high level of protection against small arms fire and is relatively lightweight and comfortable to wear. The system can also be easily customized to the wearer’s individual body size and shape.
Plate carriers are available in a variety of sizes, shapes, colors, and types depending on NIJ protection levels. There are four levels of these plate carrier vests having different security levels. Each of these vests varies from protection level to weight and price. Basically, there are two different types of plate carriers that are;
Soft Plate Carrier
Hard Plate Carrier
Soft Plate Carrier
Soft plate carriers are relatively soft and designed to protect your torso from gunfire. They usually contain ceramic plates that are lighter and inexpensive. Level II and Level III carrier plates are included in this and are used for lower protection levels like gunfire and knife stabbing.
Soft plate carriers’ other advantages are that they are lightweight, inexpensive, soft, comfortable, and provide more mobility and flexibility. They are more suitable for citizens and police officers because the army usually uses long-range rifles that are more powerful, causing great damage. These plates’ disadvantages include being less protective and more susceptible to damage from sharp objects. But don’t worry, you’ll be safe from damage unless you aren’t too close.
Hard Plate Carrier
A hard plate carrier is a type of body armor designed to protect the wearer from high-velocity rounds and armor-piercing bullets. These military plate carrier vests contain metallic plates that are heavier than ceramic plates and have been used in armors for decades. However, hard plate carriers are also much more cumbersome than other types of body armor, and they can limit the wearer’s mobility.
Hard plate carriers can provide a high level of protection against threats. These include Level IV plates that are the strongest ones and rank at the top of NIJ Levels lists. The army prefers these plates in the warzone.
If you are thinking about how they move with these heavy ballistic armors, then don’t worry; they are trained for this and can move around easily.
There are many different types of plate carriers used by the military, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. The most common type of plate carrier is the Integrated Body Armor System (IBAS), designed to provide the wearer with maximum protection while still allowing for a full range of motion. The IBAS is made up of two plates, one that covers the chest and one that covers the back. These plates are usually made of Kevlar or ceramic and are held in place by a system of straps and buckles.
Another type of plate carrier is the Modular Tactical Vest (MTV), which is designed to be more versatile and comfortable than the IBAS. The MTV typically has a series of pockets that can be used to store ammunition, water, or other supplies. It is also easier to remove and put on than the IBAS, making it a good choice for soldiers who need to be able to take their armor off quickly in the event of an emergency.
US army develops another plate carrier, mainly known as Soldier Plate Carrier System (SPCS) or KDH Magnum TAC-1. It’s an enhanced armor version that provides the soldier with greater mobility and protection.
How To Choose The Best Plate Carrier?
If you are looking for the best plate carrier identical to the army vest, then you might know a bit about these plates as well as carriers to get the best one with greater flexibility. Here we will discuss some tips to get the best ballistic armor for yourself to protect you in an emergency.
Size
The most important thing to keep in mind is the armor size, as they are available in various sizes for everyone. Remember to check your weight and body structure first because some people get overweight quickly. So buy it according to your weight and height for greater protection.
Flexibility
Armors are of different types, some of which are hard or soft. It’s up to you which one you want to buy. If you aren’t comfortable with hard armor, buy soft armor that will be more flexible. Though hard armors are also flexible, they are a bit heavy, and strong plates might be a great hurdle in quick movement from one place to another. It
Type Of Plates
You can find various types of plates for armors having different sizes, shape compositions, and protection levels. Basically, these plates are either made from ceramic or metal. Both have different protection levels depending on NIJ ranking and weight, as metals are heavier than ceramic.
You can buy any plate depending on your usage; if you deal with life-threatening situations like an undercover cop, a police officer, or any other officer belonging to the army or FBI, you can prefer metallic plates. Only buy the, if you are used to carrying weight other for citizens ceramic plates are the best option.
Carrier
Some people are fond of collecting different things or have a unique taste as they want to get the rarest item. For them, there are multiple carrier designs with different settings and plates. Normal carriers are only for plates, while some, like military carriers, have special pockets to store ammunition and other accessories. There are some stylish carriers, too; check them first, or it’s better to go with carriers made from high-quality material.
Common Mistakes People Make While Buying A Plate Carrier
If you are looking for a plate carrier and haven’t found the best yet, then remember the following thing to buy the perfect piece that will be more comfortable. The most common mistake people make while buying a military plate carrier vest is forgetting to measure their own as well as the plate size. Because a bigger or smaller carrier plate can create many issues, like a bigger plate will be a hurdle to move around. While a smaller plate can’t cover your essential body parts. Moreover, having a flexible plate carrier as a newbie will be perfect for you; it will be more comfortable.
FAQs
Do the US military use Level IV plates?
Yes, the US military uses Level IV plates in their armors as they offer higher protection and are relatably easier for military men to carry. These plates are the best ones on the NIJ list.
Does the army allow to use of a variety of carriers?
Most armies have their own carriers designed specifically for them that are not available for others to use or sell publicly. Their armors are more durable and long-lasting to go through the hardships of the battlefield.
Do the Marine corps use the same plate carrier?
The US Marine corps use The Eagle Industries Plate Carriers as they are more flexible and comfortable with higher mobility allowing the marine corps to move freely while having the Level III plate.
Conclusion
A military carrier plate is essential for everyone; it will protect you from attack. They are important for the army to wear all the time on duty as these vests work as a life savior. If you are on operation, then get these armors first, as they will protect you as well as allow you to hang numerous accessories, especially ammo, so you’ll never get short of bullets in any case.
Robert M. Bennett is an author and military enthusiast with a passion for tactical gear and equipment. He has extensive experience in the field of military and law enforcement and has worked closely with soldiers and law enforcement officers to design and develop equipment that meets their specific needs.
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