Ballistic Plates

One of the essential accessories for ballistic protection, the bulletproof plate is designed to stop firearm projectiles before they enter your body. This equipment, which also offers protection against sharp, piercing weapons such as knives, is highly appreciated by security professionals and law enforcement agencies.

How does a ballistic plate work?

Composed of highly resistant materials such as aluminum oxide, ballistic ceramic and high-density polyethylene (UHMW-PE), the ballistic plate absorbs and disperses the kinetic energy produced by the impact of a bullet. To design this type of equipment, the various materials are carefully matched to form a thick layer capable of stopping a projectile and preventing serious or fatal injury.

Ballistic plates are an excellent defense against a wide variety of ammunition from firearms. To buy your ballistic plate, our online store SOLDAT.FR gives you access to a range of products at very attractive prices.

What are the protection levels of bullet-proof plates?

Defined by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ ), the protection levels of bulletproof plates determine their ability to withstand certain types of ammunition. The most common are NIJ IIIA, NIJ III and NIJ IV.

NIJ IIIA ballistic plate

Offering optimum protection against small-caliber handguns, the NIJ IIIA ballistic plate is ideal for stopping 9 mm and 44 magnum bullets. These plates are intended for civilian use, and are designed to be lightweight and flexible. When integrated into body armor, they are suitable for everyday use.

NIJ III ballistic plate

Capable of protecting you from a wide variety of ballistic threats (7.62 mm or 9 mm caliber), the NIJ III level plate is designed with reinforced steel. It's the ideal ballistic protection for law enforcement officers, military personnel and other professionals on field missions.

NIJ IV ballistic plate

NIJ IV certification offers advanced protection against armor-piercing ammunition, including 30-gauge bullets with hardened steel cores. The NIJ IV plate is made from hard ceramic, reinforced ballistic steel and components specially designed to resist penetration.

The anti-trauma plate

The design of a product like the anti-trauma plate is focused on reducing the trauma caused by a bullet. It therefore acts as a buffer between the body armor and the body. The anti-trauma plate is made from special foam, polymer composites and other materials capable of absorbing and dissipating kinetic energy.

How to choose a ballistic plate?

Whether it's the stand-alone model for use without additional layers of protection, or the ICW model for use with body armor, your choice of plate shouldn't be made lightly. To find the right product, several details need to be taken into account.

Plate size

A plate that's too big limits your movements. Conversely, a plate that's too small can be dangerous, as it doesn't sufficiently cover the vital area of your ribcage. To help military personnel find the right plate for them, the U.S. Army has introduced SAPI (Small Arms Protective Insert) cutaway plates ranging from XS to XL. While SAPI plates generally refer to NIJ Protection Level III, ESAPI plates refer to NIJ Protection Level IV. The dimensions of both types of plate are identical.

The easiest way to find the ideal plate size for your vest is to make a cardboard model. To do this, take a piece of cardboard and trace the dimensions of the SAPI size you plan to buy. Cut out the cardboard and place it against your chest to check the coverage area. Your piece of cardboard should cover your torso to protect your heart and lungs. It should stop at the edge of your nipples. Finally, place your piece of cardboard in your vest pocket to test its compatibility.

Weight and protection

There's no point in opting for more protection than you need, as you'll be putting extra weight on your shoulders. Moreover, this can become a real handicap if you have to wear your bulletproof vest for several hours at a time.

Once you've purchased your plates, it's imperative that you wear them in a safe environment to get used to them and to understand the limits of movement that may arise. This also allows you to make any necessary adjustments before a real-life battle.

Make sure you understand how wearing a vest can protect you, and remember that it doesn't make you invincible. When a bullet hits your plate, it is deflected, but the impact is still violent (and may cause you to fall). Finally, your plate may no longer offer optimal protection if it's badly damaged.

How much does a ballistic plate cost?

Several factors can influence the price of products such as ballistic plates. The most important are the level of protection, the quality of the materials used and the manufacturer's reputation.

NIJ IV-rated bulletproof plates are generally more expensive than those with a lower level of protection. You should also be aware that the weight of your plate affects its price. The lighter your plate is for its level of protection, the more it will cost. This higher price is explained by the fact that the product is more comfortable and gives you a tactical advantage. The materials used (aramid fibers or high-density polyethylene) can also influence the price of your plates, as their strength and durability are impressive.

The price of plates generally ranges from a few hundred to a few thousand euros. However, to find the ideal protection, you need to consider the quality and reliability of the product, as your safety shouldn't be compromised for budgetary reasons. Opting for products made by brands renowned for their expertise can help you find the perfect balance between price and safety.

Browse the catalog of our online store, which specializes in the sale of ballistic protection equipment, to buy the right plate for your vest. Our accessories are offered at attractive prices, and you'll benefit from free delivery in France on purchases of 70 euros or more. So don't hesitate any longer, put the plate on your wishlist!