The Level 4 Armor Level IIIA UHMWPE Vest Insert is a 10" x 12" ballistic panel independently tested against NIJ 0101.06 Level IIIA threat parameters, rated to stop handgun rounds from .22 Mag through .44 Mag at velocities up to 1,550 fps. Constructed from UHMWPE (Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene), the insert weighs 1.15 lbs and is designed to drop into a compatible vest or carrier without modifying the vest shell.

Who this is for

• Concealed-carry holders and everyday carriers who want a discrete ballistic upgrade to a soft vest or carrier they already own.
• Security professionals and law enforcement support staff seeking a handgun-rated panel at an accessible price point without sacrificing tested ballistic performance.
• Preparedness-minded civilians who want a lightweight, independently tested soft armor insert for home or vehicle readiness.

Threat coverage

This insert is independently tested against NIJ 0101.06 Level IIIA threat parameters, the highest handgun protection level under that standard. It covers the full spectrum of common handgun threats — from .22 Mag to .44 Mag, including 9mm, .38 Spl, .357 Mag, 10mm, .40, .41 Mag, and .45 ACP — at the velocities shown in the table below. Like all soft armor, it does not protect against rifle-caliber threats. If your threat profile includes rifle rounds, a hard armor plate rated Level III or Level IV must be added to your system.

Ballistic test data

Specifications

Frequently asked questions

Can this be shipped to my state?

It cannot be shipped to New York or Connecticut due to state body armor restrictions. Orders are subject to US export regulations. Under 18 U.S.C. § 931, anyone with a federal felony conviction for a crime of violence is prohibited from purchasing or possessing body armor.

What is NIJ Level IIIA and what does it stop?

NIJ Level IIIA is the highest handgun-rated protection level under NIJ 0101.06. It covers a wide range of pistol and revolver threats — including 9mm, .357 Mag, and .44 Mag — at velocities consistent with real-world self-defense and duty ammunition. This insert was tested against those specific loads at the velocities listed in the table above.

Will this stop rifle rounds?

No. Soft armor at Level IIIA does not protect against rifle-caliber rounds such as 5.56x45 or 7.62x39. Defeating rifle threats requires a hard armor plate rated Level III or Level IV worn in conjunction with your soft armor system.

Why is UHMWPE used instead of Kevlar?

UHMWPE (Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene) is 40% stronger than Kevlar at equivalent weight. That strength-to-weight advantage allows this insert to deliver Level IIIA ballistic performance at 1.15 lbs — without the moisture-absorption sensitivity that affects some aramid-fiber panels in high-humidity environments.

Does this insert require a carrier or vest?

Yes. This is a bare ballistic panel — it requires a compatible vest, carrier, or concealment system with a 10" x 12" plate or insert pocket. If you need help confirming fit with a specific carrier, contact us before ordering.

Is this panel NIJ Certified or NIJ Listed on the Compliant Products List?

The insert is independently tested against NIJ 0101.06 Level IIIA threat parameters. It is marked Level IIIA* on the product page, indicating performance testing against the NIJ standard. For CPL listing verification, review the NIJ Compliant Products List at nij.ojp.gov.