What Civilians Need to Know About Level III Armor

For military personnel, law enforcement officers, and security professionals, wearing armor is an everyday reality. But for civilians, the use of body armor is a bit more complicated. In particular, many people are curious about Level 3 Armor—what it is and whether or not it can be worn by civilians. Let’s take a closer look at the realities of wearing Level 3 armor as a civilian.

What Is Level 3 Armor?

First things first—what exactly is Level 3 armor? It’s important to note that all body armor is classified according to the threat level. A Level 1 vest offers protection against handguns up to .22 caliber LR; a Level 2 vest protects most common handgun calibers, such as 9mm and .357 Magnum; and a Level 3 armor protects against high-powered rifle rounds like 7.62×39mm M43 and 5.56×45mm NATO FMJ rounds.

Can Civilians Wear Level 3 Armor?

The short answer is yes—but there are certain restrictions in place for civilian use of this type of body armor. In general, it’s perfectly legal for civilians to purchase and wear any level of body armor (except NIJ IIIa or higher). That said, some states have restrictions on what types of body armor civilians can purchase or wear—so it’s important to check your local laws before making any purchases.

Additionally, while most companies will sell body armor to anyone 18 years or older, you should still make sure you’re buying from a reputable dealer who can verify that the product meets industry standards set forth by organizations like the National Institute of Justice (NIJ).

Wearing body armor as a civilian can offer an extra layer of safety in dangerous situations, but it’s important to choose wisely when selecting your protective gear. Make sure you understand your local laws regarding purchasing and wearing body armor, as well as any industry standards (such as those set forth by the NIJ) that must be met when making your selection.

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