Hard Armor Plates

Hard Armor Plates | Unyielding Protection for Every Mission

Personalized Protection for Your Needs: The Hard Shell Difference

Our Hard Armor Plates, are expertly made to offer unparalleled safety to individuals facing the most dangerous scenarios.

Introducing the Rhino series, a premium line of body armor plates designed to meet a variety of purposes. It features a wide range of protection levels, sizes, and shapes, ranging from sleek flat forms to multi-curved ones. These lightweight armor plates are a reliable companion on routine patrols and covert surveillance missions, and are trusted by military squads, police officers, and other law enforcement officials. Refer to the information below for a thorough understanding of our products:

 

Model No. Protection Level Ballistic Protection Weight (Kgs) Download pdf Image
ICW level III NIJ Level III with ICW Level IIIA Soft Armour 7.62 x 51 mm (NATO Ball Round)
7.62 x 39 AK47 (Mild Steel Core)
1.4kg
Hard Armor Plates
Hard Armor Plates
ICW level III 7.62 x 51 mm (NATO Ball Round)
7.62 x 39 AK47 (Mild Steel Core)
2.9kg
Hard Armor Plates
SA level III NIJ Level III Stand Alone 7.62 x 51 mm (NATO Ball Round)
7.62 x 39 AK47 (Mild Steel Core)
1.7kg
Hard Armor Plates
Hard Armor Plates
SA level III 7.62 x 51 mm (NATO Ball Round)
7.62 x 39 AK47 (Mild Steel Core)
3.2kg
Hard Armor Plates
ICW level III Plus NIJ Level III Plus with ICW Level IIIA Soft Armour 7.62 x 51 mm Nato
7.62 x 39 MSC
SS 5.56 x 45 mm M193
1.8kg
Hard Armor Plates
Hard Armor Plates
ICW level III Plus 7.62 x 39 MSC
7.62 x 39 HSC
7.62 x 51 NATO
SS 5.56 x 45 mm
2kg
Hard Armor Plates
ICW level III Plus 7.62 x 39 MSC
7.62 x 39 HSC
7.62 x 51 NATO
SS 5.56 x 45 mm
2.2kg
Hard Armor Plates
Hard Armor Plates
ICW level IV NIJ Level IV with ICW Level IIIA Soft Armour 7.62 x 39 mm AP (Six Shots)
7.62 x 51 NATO (Six Shots)
7.62 x 51 AP (Single Shots)
2.65kg
Hard Armor Plates
Hard Armor Plates
ICW level IV 7.62 x 39 MSC
7.62 x 51 NATO
7.62 x 39 HSC
7.62 X 39 MM API BZ
SS 5.56 x 45 mm
7.62 x 63 mm AP (M2AP)
3.2kg
Hard Armor Plates
SA level IV NIJ Level IV Stand Alone 7.62 x 39 MSC
7.62 x 51 NATO
7.62 x 39 HSC
7.62 X 39 MM API BZ
SS 5.56 x 45 mm
7.62 x 63 mm AP (M2AP)
2.7kg
Hard Armor Plates
Hard Armor Plates
SA level IV 7.62 x 39 MSC
7.62 x 51 NATO
7.62 x 39 HSC
7.62 X 39 MM API BZ
SS 5.56 x 45 mm
7.62 x 63 mm AP (M2AP)
3.6kg
Hard Armor Plates

 

 

The Rhino series ballistic panels have protection levels ranging from NIJ IIINIJ III+ to NIJ IV, and can be used in conjunction with soft armor or as stand-alone inserts. The Rhino series ballistic plates dissipate energy by containing spall, debris, and residues after ballistic impact. These ballistic plates are designed to offer active resistance to fungus and microbial growth and offers fluid resistance as well.

Behind the Shield: The Making of Hard Armor Plates

Designed to meet the most formidable ballistic challenges, our Rhino series of Hard Armor Plates ensure both comfort and safety. These plates, which are manufactured to thrive in the face of hardship, are an example of excellent engineering.

The Rhino series includes a variety of panels made from high-performance polyethylene or ceramic-based hybrid composite. These materials, which are remarkably light, are very effective in absorbing and diffusing ballistic impacts. To make the inserts highly durable, the panels are covered with PU or Nylon-based fabric, ensuring that safety and style perfectly converge.

Versatile Strength: Unleashing the Potential of Hard Armor Plates

Hard Armor Plates from the Rhino series offer protection levels that range from NIJ III, NIJ III+, to NIJ IV. These plates provide a robust shield, whether they are combined with soft armour or used as stand-alone inserts. They use their energy-dissipating property to contain spall, debris, and residues after ballistic impact. Our Hard Armor Plates actively fight off the threat of fungal and microbial growth, providing a resistance not just to ballistic threats but to these unseen threats as well.

These plates from the Rhino series have multi-hit resistance to a variety of ammunition when used In-conjunction with soft armor (ICW), while the standalone (STA) plates can withstand ballistic threats without the need for soft armour.

ICW (In Conjunction With Armor) Hard Armor Plates: Integrated Protection

To effectively intercept projectiles, the ICW (In Conjunction with Armour) plate requires seamless integration with a bulletproof vest. It shows best compatibility when used in conjunction with a IIIA ballistic vest, where the ballistic vest is specifically designed with a large front pocket that may be used to insert an ICW plate. The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) certifies the ICW plate when it is combined into a unified system, eliminating the potential of interchangeability.

STA (Standalone Armor) Hard Armor Plates: Solo Defense Partner

Standalone Armour (STA) performs exactly as its name suggests: it has an independent defensive capability, making the insertion of additional protective layers unnecessary. In this case, Hard armor plates are enough since they are made to eliminate specific threat levels independently. These plates have a heavier profile than ICW and are mostly used in tactical operations. When using Standalone plates with tactical vests, there are additional weight and bulk issues that must be taken into account in order to guarantee the best possible ballistic protection.

Why Choose Hard Shell: Guarding Warriors, Empowering Protectors

For unmatched Hard Armor Plate superiority, opt for the Hard Shell Rhino Series. We carefully engineer all of our Rhino plates to meet NIJ III, NIJ III+, and NIJ IV protection requirements. They provide the best weight-to-performance ratios when combined with hybrid ceramic composites or high-performance polyethylene.

Rhino plates reduce spall, debris, and residues after impact thanks to their exceptional energy-dissipation properties. Additional distinguishing features are fluid resistance and protection against fungus invasion. Our Rhino plates stand as a testament to uncompromised defense, modern technology, and enduring dependability whether used in conjunction with soft armor (ICW) or on their own as stand-alone armor (STA).

 

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    Choosing the Right Body Armor Level: Your Guide to Armor Plates

    Are you confused about selecting the accurate Armor plates? Soft Armor plates or Hard Armor plates? Swimmers cut or Shooters cut? Ceramic, steel, or kevlar? Choosing the precise Armor plate cut, size, and plate level of material is an essential step in buying the Armor plates to move with your plate carrier. It determines the coverage, level of protection, and mobility during a dangerous situation or combat. It may be irresistible, especially if this is your 1st time buying Armor plates, hence make sure you only choose the accurate Armor plates that provide excellent protection.

    What Are Armor Plates, and What Are These Plates Prepared Of?

    An Armor plate has become the essential plate that is built to stop ballistic threats. There are several alternatives for these Hard Armor plates, but the most ordinary materials are Aluminum Oxide, UHMWPE, Boron Carbide, and Silicon Carbide.

    How Efficient Are Armor Plates?

    Hard Armor plates are the more robust kind of ballistic Armor plates as they may stop rifle threats or rounds above 0.30 cal.

    Why Are More Safe Hard or Soft Armor Plates?

    When you are in a dangerous situation, it is significant to be equipped with sufficient body Armor, as it ensures more safety. Hard Armor plates are more effective and offer more protection against rifle rounds and dangers than soft Armor plates.

    Laws for Hard Armor Plates

    May the Inhabitant Purchase Armor Plates?

    The Rules or Regulations Relating to the Sale or Utilization of Hard Armor Plates Differ Significantly Based Upon Your Region. Ensure to Check Your National or Local Rules or Laws Before Selecting Your Armor Plates.

    Are the Armor Plates Officially Permitted or Not?

    There Are Some Basics of Armor Plates Legislation You Must Keep In Mind Such Things:

    Where May You Sell or Advertise Armor Plates?

    Armor Plates May Ship to Forty-Nine States of THE US. Sales Populace Seeking to Buy These Armor Plates in Connecticut May Do So Merely via Face-To-Face Transaction. Armor Plates May Sell to Anybody, and There Is No Requirement for a Background ID. These Armor Plates May Sell at Gun Stores, Shows, Sites, Over the Phone, and Through Catalogues.

    Where May You Not Sell or Advertise Armor Plates?

    You May Not Take, Send, Ship, or Bring Armor Plates Outside the United States, Devoid of Centralized Permission. Armor Plates May Not Ship to Addresses in Connecticut.

     

    ballistic plate with body armor vest

    NIJ (National Institute of Justice) Armor Protection Levels

    The NIJ (National Institute of Justice) sets the levels of safety for body armor that are Level IIA, Level II, Level IIIA, Level III, and Level IV. They are helpful against ballistic risks to make sure that they meet standards and make certain a significant level of protection. The National Institute of Justice has categorized these into two known as Soft and Hard armor plates.

    What Are Soft Armor Plates & Its Levels ?

    As its name implies, these armor plates are soft or flexible, yet their components can take loads of time and it is significantly stronger than steel armor plates. It is light and particularly for law enforcement officers. These armor plates are prepared up of fabric-like materials with a higher level of strength, such as Kevlar, Twaron, and Spectra. Let us discuss the levels of soft armor plates in detail.

    LEVEL IIA
    This Soft Armor Plate Is the Least Efficient, However, the Most Concealable Armor Plate for Those Who Require It to Be Undetected, Like Undercover Agents, Law Enforcement Officers, and Intelligence Gatherers.
     
    LEVEL II
    Level Il Armor Plates Have a Perfect Balance Between Flexibility, Weight, and Protection. This Level of Armor Plates May Cover Particular Shotgun Fire and Handgun.
     
    LEVEL IIIA
    The Most Commonly Suggested Armor Plate Level That Delivers Safety Against Most Rounds of Shotguns and Handguns This Level Is Capable of Stopping Magnum Rounds From Shotguns.
     
     

    What Are Hard Armor Plates Levels ?

    Hard Armor Plates (NIJ Level Ill and Level IV) Are Mainly Prepared Using Steel, Ceramic, and Polyethene. These Plates Have Been Placed in Bulletproof Vests or Plate Carriers. Ceramic Prepared Plates Are Also Coated With Trauma Absorbing Material for Improved Protection. Owing to the Strength Quality, These Hard Armor Plates Are Heavier and Less Pliable as Compared to Soft Armor Plates. When Used in Dangerous Situations in the Military or Law Enforcement, These Hard Armor Plates Are Rated to Protect Users From the Higher Caliber Rifle Shots.
     
    Level Ill
    The World of Hard Armor Plates Begins From This Level, and This Level Is Rated Especially for the Rifle Rounds. It Is Heavier Than Soft Armor and Delivers Excellent Protection Against Rifle Threats.
     
    Level IV
    Level IV Hard Armor Plates Are the Best Plates Rated With Excellent Capability to Resist Most Rifle, Shotgun, or Handgun Strikes. Nevertheless, Its Large Size or Weight Limits Its Usability.

     

    FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

    What are hard armor plates made of?

    Hard armor plates are made of durable materials like high-performance polyethylene or hybrid composites based on ceramics. A coherent structure is created by the bonding and layering of these elements. This structure provides the best possible defense while preserving a tolerable weight profile.

    Is hard armor plate or soft armor plate better?

    Depending on the intended use, either hard armor plates or soft armor plates are preferable. Due to their rigid composition, hard armor plates are excellent at deflecting projectiles with high velocity. For low-velocity threats, flexible, comfortable soft armor plates are excellent. Selection needs to be in line with operating objectives and special protective needs.

    Is hard armor plate bulletproof?

    Hard armor plates are made to offer significant protection from projectiles. The plates efficiently absorb and disperse energy upon ballistic impact, minimizing potential damage. The design, composition, and certification of the plate in accordance with the necessary criteria, however, determine the degree of protection.

    Do hard armor plates expire?

    The performance of hard armor plates may deteriorate over time due to wear and exposure to environmental elements. Manufacturers generally provide guidelines for the expected life of their products. Consistent protection levels are ensured through routine inspections, adhering to manufacturer specifications, and replacing plates as necessary.

    What are Level III armor plates?

    The level III armor plates are made to provide strong defense against a variety of high-velocity threats. These plates provide protection against ballistic threats such as 7.62 x 51 mm (NATO Ball Round) and 7.62 x 39 AK47 (Mild Steel Core).

    What are Level IV armor plates?

    Level IV armor plates offer superior ballistic defense against powerful threats. These plates are designed to withstand high-velocity hits from armor-piercing bullets and provide against ballistic threats such as 7.62 x 39 mm AP , 7.62 x 51 NATO, 7.62 x 51 AP, etc.

    Are hard armor plates heavy?

    Considering their intended purpose, hard armor plates are relatively heavier than soft armor plates. It is because of the materials used to make them, such as high-performance polyethylene and hybrid composites based on ceramic. However, this doesn't mean that these plates are uncomfortable. Efficient design and manufacturing ensure that hard armor plates are both comfortable and offer solid protection.

    What is the strongest material for armor plates?

    Depending on the particular protection needs, different materials can be used to make armor plates. In particular, ceramic-based hybrid composites have remarkable hardness and durability, making them suited for high-velocity threats. High-performance polyethylene is an alternate option for some applications because it also boasts remarkable strength-to-weight ratios.

    What is the difference between a hard and soft armor plate?

    The main difference between hard and soft armor plates is found in their defensive qualities and composition. Hard armor plates provide robust defense against high-velocity projectiles and are generally made of materials like ceramics or high-performance polyethylene. Soft armor plates, which often have layers of flexible materials, offer comfort and flexibility while largely fending off low-velocity assaults.

    Where to buy the best hard armor plate?

    Hard Shell is an ideal destination if you want to buy the finest hard armor plates. Hard Shell, a company renowned for its technical innovation and dedication to quality, provides a selection of top-tier hard armor plates tailored to different protective requirements. The expertise of Hard Shell guarantees the delivery of reliable and efficient defense solutions.

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