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    ATTENTION:

    Hard armor plates level III and higher cannot be shipped outside the USA (APO/FPO excluded) due to federal ITAR regulations. If you have a need for these outside the USA, we are happy to assist you working with one of our international partners. Please contact us for details.

    Armor Plates & Panels

    MED-TAC International Corp. offers a full line of military and law enforcement grade Level IIIA Special Threat, Level III and Level IV hard armor plates & panels. The hard armor we sell is some of the best in the world and can be vouched for by countless public safety agencies that actively deploy our products in life-threatening situations.

    The plates and soft armor inserts we sell is designed, developed and manufactured using state-of-the-art processes and equipment to ensure quality and performance when deployed by responders throughout numerous tactical and urban situations. Our hard armor plates are NIJ compliant, with models available for NIJ 2005 Interim and NIJ 0101.06 standards. In addition, they undergo special threat assessment, and some models are independently tested according to the NIJ 0108.01 standard.

    Additionally, many models undergo additional testing against V50 and special threats, in order to satisfy customer requirements against other threat assessments.

    We have a series of hard armor plates ideal for emergency officers who require modularity, protection and size options in one package. First responders can rapidly up-armor with these plates if there’s a rifle threat while remaining agile due to its low weight. A full line of other protective rifle plates is also available.

     

    Guide to NIJ 0101.07 Levels in Ballistic Gear

    The latest NIJ 0101.07 standard replaces the old IIA, II, IIIA, III, and IV levels with a simpler, threat-focused system: HG (Handgun) and RF (Rifle). This new classification makes it easier to match armor to real-world threats without confusion.

    New NIJ Levels Explained

    HG1 – Handgun Level 1 (Entry-level handgun protection)

    • 9mm FMJ, .40 S&W at duty velocities
    • Patrol officers, security personnel, and concealed wear in low- to moderate-threat areas
    • Lightweight, flexible, suitable for prolonged wear under uniforms
    • Roughly equivalent to old NIJ Level II

    HG2 – Handgun Level 2 (Maximum soft armor handgun protection)

    • .357 SIG FMJ FN, .44 Magnum SJHP
    • High-handgun-threat environments, SWAT medics, specialized security units
    • Highest protection available in soft armor while remaining concealable or worn over uniforms
    • Roughly equivalent to old NIJ Level IIIA

    RF1 – Rifle Level 1 (Standard rifle threat protection)

    • 7.62×51mm NATO FMJ (M80 ball), 5.56×45mm FMJ (M193) at specified velocities
    • Active shooter response, military operations, high-threat tactical missions
    • Hard armor plates (steel, ceramic, UHMWPE) carried in plate carriers
    • Roughly equivalent to old NIJ Level III

    RF2 – Rifle Level 2 (Enhanced rifle threat protection)

    • All RF1 threats plus 5.56×45mm M855 “green tip” (steel penetrator) and higher-velocity rifle rounds
    • Extreme-threat environments, military special operations, and high-risk SWAT missions
    • Advanced ceramic or composite plates for maximum ballistic resistance
    • Roughly equivalent to old NIJ Level III+ / Level IV in most cases, depending on AP threat

    Key Buying Tips Under the New NIJ Standard

    1. For rifle protection, start at RF1 or RF2; for handgun threats, HG2 is generally the upper limit.
    2. Higher rifle ratings often mean heavier plates; balance mobility with coverage.
    3. Ensure the armor is certified under the new standard, not just “tested to it.”
    4. Your plate carrier or vest must be rated and sized for the plate type you select.
    5. Many teams use both HG2 soft armor for daily wear and RF2 plates for high-threat call-outs.

    Why This Matters

    The HG1/HG2/RF1/RF2 system removes ambiguity and focuses on actual ballistic threats. Whether you need lightweight concealable armor or full rifle-rated plates, our collection includes NIJ 0101.07 certified options designed for law enforcement, military, and security professionals.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Body Armor Buyer FAQ (Concealable & Tactical)

    What’s the difference between concealable and tactical body armor?

    Concealable Armor: Worn under uniforms or plain clothes, designed for discreet handgun protection. Ideal for patrol officers, detectives, and executive protection.

    Tactical Armor: Worn externally, often in plate carriers with MOLLE/PALS webbing for gear attachment. Designed for higher protection levels, including rifle threats, and rapid deployment in high-risk ops.

    What NIJ level should we choose under the new standard?

    Under NIJ 0101.07, armor is classified as:

    • Basic handgun threats (similar to old Level II)
    • Maximum soft armor handgun protection (similar to old Level IIIA)
    • Standard rifle threats (similar to old Level III)
    • Enhanced rifle threats, including M855 green tip (similar to old Level III+/IV)


    Rule of Thumb:

    • Soft Armor: Woven aramid fibers (e.g., Kevlar®) or laminated UHMWPE for handgun threats'
    • Hard Armor Plates: Ceramic, steel, or UHMWPE composites for rifle threats

    What materials are used in modern armor?

    Soft Armor: Woven aramid fibers (e.g., Kevlar®) or laminated UHMWPE for handgun threats

    Hard Armor Plates: Ceramic, steel, or UHMWPE composites for rifle threats

    Hybrid Systems: Soft armor vest with removable hard plates for scalable protection

    How do we size body armor correctly?

    Soft Armor: Should cover from just below the collarbone to 1–3" above the duty belt, wrapping around the torso.

    Hard Plates: SAPI/ESAPI sizes; center plate over sternum, covering vital organs without impeding mobility.

    Tip: Always fit to the individual operator—never “one size fits all.”

    How long does body armor last?

    Most NIJ-certified armor has a 5–10 year warranty, depending on the material. Soft armor fibers degrade over time from sweat, moisture, and UV exposure; plates can be damaged by drops or impacts.

    Always follow manufacturer inspection guidelines.

    How do we evaluate documentation and compliance?

    Confirm compliance with the appropriate NIJ standard (0108.01 for materials; 0101.06/0101.07 for armor testing) and request a test report summary—especially if the product uses marketing terms like “Level III+.” Use NIJ resources to understand certification scope

    What warranty and service life should we expect?

    Shields typically carry multi-year warranties on panels and hardware; viewports/light systems may differ.

    Many suppliers list warranty and shelf-life ranges by model—verify before purchase and document acceptance testing on receipt. (Example sizing/weight pages also show warranty callouts.)

    Can armor be used after taking a hit?

    Soft armor can sometimes remain in service after a stop, depending on the damage—manufacturer inspection required.

    Hard plates should be replaced after any ballistic impact to ensure integrity.

    Many manufacturers have a SAVE policy that will repair or replace the vest free of charge after a line of duty incident.

    What features should we look for in tactical carriers?
    • Quick-release buckles for rapid doffing in emergencies
    • Adjustable cummerbunds for secure fit
    • MOLLE/PALS webbing for pouches and gear
    • Padded shoulder straps for load comfort
    • Plate retention systems to prevent shifting

    What are the common funding sources for body armor purchases?

    Agencies can offset costs through:

    • BJA Bulletproof Vest Partnership (BVP) Program: Federal reimbursement for qualifying agencies
    • Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP): Supports law enforcement and first responder equipment purchases
    • Edward Byrne Memorial JAG Grants: Flexible funding for justice and public safety needs
    • State & Local Public Safety Grants: Check your state’s public safety office for armor-specific funding cycles
    • Private Foundations: Some philanthropic organizations support officer safety initiatives

    How do we apply for these grants?

    Each program has its own eligibility, documentation, and application process. Deadlines are strict—plan months ahead. MED-TAC International has experience guiding agencies through BVP and other federal programs.

    Tip: Contact us if you’d like us to walk you through grant requirements, help gather NIJ certification paperwork, and prepare a quote that meets funding guidelines.

    Why choose MED-TAC International for agency armor purchases?

    We offer NIJ 0101.07 certified concealable and tactical armor from leading manufacturers. Expert pricing and support for bulk orders. Sizing assistance available for entire department.


    We understand your concerns about emergency responses.

    Don’t Let Unpreparedness Hold You Back

    In emergencies, every second matters. Without the right tactical medical gear, your ability to respond effectively is compromised, leading to stress and anxiety. Our products are designed by certified veterans, ensuring you have access to everything you need to be mission-ready.

    After equipping yourself with our solutions, you can respond decisively, providing aid when it’s needed the most without the overwhelming worry of being unprepared.
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