When it comes to personal safety and security, having reliable protective gear is paramount. For professionals in law enforcement, security, and even private citizens concerned with personal defense, soft body armor provides an essential layer of protection. In this blog, we will dive into the specifics of Level IIIA/HG2 (Hand Gun 2) protection, a standard in soft body armor, to help you understand its capabilities and benefits.

What is Soft Body Armor?

Soft body armor is designed to be lightweight, flexible, and comfortable while providing protection against various ballistic threats. Unlike hard body armor, which uses rigid plates, soft body armor is typically constructed from multiple layers of woven or uni-directional laminated high-strength fibers. These materials are engineered to absorb and disperse the energy from bullets and other projectiles, preventing penetration and reducing blunt force trauma.

What Does Level IIIA Mean?

The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) classifies body armor into different levels based on the type and severity of threats they can stop. Level IIIA being the previous standard of NIJ 0101.06 was the highest rating for handgun threats and is rated to stop:

• .357 SIG full metal jacketed flat nose bullets with a velocity of up to 1,470 feet per second (fps).
• .44 Magnum semi-jacketed hollow point bullets with a velocity of up to 1,430 fps.

What is HG2 Protection?

HG2 is the updated NIJ standard 0101.07 that reflects advancements in ballistic protection, offering a similar level of protection to the previous Level IIIA but with updated testing protocols. It is designed to stop:

• 9mm Luger full metal jacketed round nose bullets with a velocity of up to 1,470 fps.
• .44 Magnum Jacketed hollow point bullets with similar velocities as specified in the Level IIIA standard.

 

Why is Level IIIA/HG2 the Most Common Threat Level Used?

Level IIIA/HG2 is the most common threat level used by individuals and professionals for several compelling reasons:

1. Comprehensive Protection: These standards offer robust protection against the most prevalent handgun threats encountered in real-world scenarios, including high-velocity rounds from common calibers such as 9mm and .44 Magnum.

2. Balance of Safety and Comfort: Level IIIA/HG2 soft body armor underlines an ideal balance between high-level protection and wearability. It is lightweight and flexible, making it suitable for extended use without causing significant discomfort or hindering mobility.

3. Wide Applicability: This level of armor is versatile enough for various applications, from law enforcement and security personnel to private citizens seeking personal protection. Its ability to stop a broad range of handgun rounds makes it a reliable choice for different threat environments.

4. Ease of Concealment: The thin, flexible nature of soft body armor allows it to be easily concealed under clothing, providing discreet protection that is essential for many users, especially those in undercover or plainclothes roles.

Exceeding Level IIIA/HG2 standards

Although the NIJ Standard Level IIIA/HG2 is rated to stop high-velocity rounds like the 9mm Luger and .44 Magnum, some companies such as OmniPROTEX strive to exceed these benchmarks, enhancing their armor to provide protection against even more powerful pistol calibers. By utilizing advanced materials and innovative manufacturing techniques, OmniPROTEX aims to offer body armor that not only meets but surpasses the established standards, ensuring users have the highest possible level of safety. This commitment to exceeding NIJ requirements reflects a dedication to continuous improvement and addressing the evolving threats in the field of ballistic protection. 

What is Level Level IIIA+/HG2+ (with the added PLUS)

The "PLUS" designation, such as Level IIIA+ or HG2+, is not an official NIJ standard but rather a term used by companies to indicate enhanced protection beyond the standard Level IIIA or HG2 standards. Each company defines "PLUS" differently, aiming to exceed standard performance by improving their armor's capabilities.

At OmniPROTEX, we have developed the OPX-ULTRA, an HG2+ soft body armor designed to stop high-velocity pistol calibers, including penetrator rounds, and to offer stab protection. This enhanced armor goes beyond the standard HG2 protection, providing additional safety for users in more challenging threat environments.

It is crucial to understand that not all "PLUS" armors are created equal. One company's HG2+ armor may not perform the same as another's. Therefore, thorough research is essential. Review each product's specifications, understand the company's claims, and seek test results from NIJ accredited test labs to ensure you are getting the protection you need.

Conclusion

Understanding the protection offered by Level IIIA/HG2 soft body armor is crucial for making an informed decision about your personal safety gear. With its high level of protection, comfort, and versatility, this type of armor is a reliable choice for anyone facing potential ballistic threats. By choosing soft body armor made in the USA, you can be confident in the quality and performance of your protective equipment.

For more information on soft body armor and to explore our range of Level IIIA/HG2 products, visit OmniPROTEX.com Stay protected, stay safe.