Different Types of AR500 Armor Body Armor – Level III, IIIA, Hard, & Soft

AR500 Armor®: High-Performance Body Armor for Every Threat Level

AR500 Armor® designs and manufactures a complete lineup of rifle-rated and pistol-rated body armor, available in both hard plates and soft armor panels. Every product is independently tested to NIJ standards and built in-house in the USA to ensure maximum reliability when it matters most.

Level III Rifle-Rated Hard Armor

Protection Against Rifle Calibers

Our Level III hard armor plates are engineered to stop 7.62x51mm NATO (M80 Ball) at velocities up to 2,780 feet per second. This rating also covers:

• 7.62x39mm (AK-47)
• 5.56x45mm / .223 Remington (including M855 “Green Tip”)
• All lesser rifle calibers and pistol rounds below the rated velocity

Plate Configurations for Comfort and Fit

Level III plates are available in flat and curved (formed) configurations. The curved design enhances ergonomics, reduces fatigue during extended wear, and can be used as either front or back plates for full coverage.

Level IIIA Pistol-Rated Armor

Hard Armor Level IIIA

Our Level IIIA hard armor features an ergonomic curve for superior comfort and concealment. It is stab-resistant, ultra-thin, and weighs just 4.0 lbs, making it an excellent choice for covert or low-profile protection.

Soft Armor Level IIIA

For maximum flexibility and all-day wear, our Level IIIA soft armor panels use advanced Carbon Nanotube Technology to deliver outstanding performance at minimal weight. An 11” x 14” panel weighs only 1 lb, allowing discreet concealment under everyday clothing.

Calibers Stopped by Level IIIA Armor

Both hard and soft Level IIIA armor are tested to stop:

• .357 SIG FMJ
• .44 Magnum SJHP at up to 1,430 feet per second
• All lesser pistol calibers, including .22 LR, .380 ACP, 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, 10mm, and .357 Magnum

Soft Armor vs. Hard Armor – Choosing the Right Protection

• Soft Armor: Flexible, lightweight, and ideal for concealed carry or prolonged wear. Best for protection against handgun threats.
• Hard Armor: Rigid, durable, and capable of defeating rifle rounds and higher-velocity threats. Best for tactical or high-threat scenarios.

Made in the USA – Built to NIJ Standards

Every AR500 Armor® plate is independently tested to NIJ compliance using the highest quality materials and strict manufacturing standards. Built in our Phoenix, Arizona facility, our armor is designed to give you the reliable protection you need when your life is on the line.