What's the Difference Between a Bulletproof Vest vs Plate Carrier?

There are multiple misconceptions of the differences between a bullet proof vest and a plate carrier. These differences are important know when picking the appropriate ballistic protection for your profession. We are here to help you evaluate the distinction between the two.?

Protection Level

• Bulletproof Vest- A bulletproof vest is typically made with soft armor that offers level IIIA protection. This means it can protect from handguns and soft-point bullets.?
• Plate Carrier- A plate carrier alone does not offer any protection from bullets until you add hard armor plates to the carrier.? Depending on the threats you are facing you can add a Level III or IV body armor plate. This means you can be protected by rifles and other higher caliber bullets. It is important to have this type of protection if you are law enforcement because of the weapons we are seeing more in this day and age such as rifles.?

Weight

• Bulletproof Vest- A bulletproof vest is made by tightly knitting dense fabric, typically, Cordura, mesh, and polyester. Other popular and more sturdy materials include Kevlar, Twaron, or carbon nanotube material. Considering the vests are made of soft armor they are lightweight and easy to maneuver in. Soft armor is normally between 1-3 pounds and is up to about an inch thick. If a high protection level isn’t needed by your profession then a bulletproof vest will do the job.?
• Plate Carrier- A plate carrier itself is lightweight but depends on the plates that you add for the total weight of the carrier. Steel and ceramic plates can weigh up to 8 pounds a piece adding up to 16 pounds for a front and back plate. Choosing to use Duritium? body armor means you can get the same protection at half the weight. The ShotStop Duritium??III PA? plate weighs just 2.7 pounds and is .6 inches thick. So whether you are law enforcement or a civilian, Duritium? body armor will provide high caliber protection without the heavy weight or discomfort.?

Overall Fit

• Bulletproof Vest- These vests fit the entire body including your shoulders and sides. It is also easy to conceal compared to a plate carrier. This can make a vest more practical for civilians and everyday wear as they can be concealed under your shirt. Other types of bulletproof clothing are available including jackets. This is a realistic option for someone who is not law enforcement or not expecting to encounter anything more than a pistol.?

Plate Carrier- Compared to a vest, plate carriers are not easily concealable. They go on top of your clothing, over your shoulders, and are attached on the sides. Although they’re not easily concealable, they are more appropriate for someone expecting to need protection against anything more than a pistol. Plate carriers are typically used for tactical needs or anyone in law enforcement.