What is a Level 3 body protector?

03 Apr.,2024

 

Body protection made easy

Photo credit: Kit Houghton

From January 2024 the 2009 standard
will no longer be permitted to use for BE, BRC, PC

 

Download a free copy of the Guide to
Body Protection by clicking on the front cover image below

Download a copy of the Body Protector Poster below

Whether you’re planning to go eventing, about to back a young horse or just go out hacking, consideration should always be given to body protection.

Designed to absorb impact from a fall or kick from a horse, body protectors are compulsory for some competitions. But an increasing number of riders report feeling more confident – and therefore riding more positively – when wearing one in everyday situations from hacking to schooling over fences.

Another reason many more riders are opting for body protection is that modern garments are more flexible and lightweight than their predecessors. Not only that, 21st century body protectors come in fun, fashionable colours (or plain if you prefer), are quick and easy to put on – and don’t necessarily cost as much as you may think.

A good fit is the key to comfort and safety. BETA trains retailers to fit body protectors so that they can offer riders free, personalised fittings.

What’s the best body protector for you?

BETA originally brought together riding organisations, doctors, riders, manufacturers and retailers to develop the now widely recognised BETA Body Protector Standard.

The 2018 Body Protector Standard meets all the requirements of the respective European standard (EN 13158). A revised edition of the BETA standard was published and adopted by BETA in 2018 as the new BETA standard.

In performance terms there is no difference in the amount of protection offered by the 2009 and 2018 versions. The 2009 version ceased to be manufactured at the end of 2018, and some of the disciplines and rider organisations from January 2024 will no longer recognise and accept it. Please note that British Eventing have given a grace period until 8 April for garments to be replaced to meet the new rules.

As rules have to apply to all garments with the same label, the decision was made to withdraw permission for the older version of the standard due to the potential age that some of the oldest garments being worn could have reached – up to 13 years old.

Garments labelled 2009 when bought new can be used for hacking and many other activities where there is no stipulation for the later version.

Under the BETA Standard, garments are additionally re-tested annually for consistency of quality of materials used and manufacturing processes. We would recommend that if you are looking to purchase a new body protector now that you look for garments with the 2018 label on them.

The BETA Standard sets criteria for shock-absorption, controls the area of the body that must be covered and ensures there are minimal gaps between the protective foam panels. It encompasses three levels, each designed for different activities and denoted by a colour-coded label on the garment.

•    Level 1 – provides the lowest level of protection that is only considered appropriate for licensed jockeys. Level 1 is designed to meet the weight restrictions that apply to professional jockeys whilst racing.
•    Level 2 – offers a lower than normal level of protection. It is considered suitable for general riding in very low risk situations and for professionals such as licensed jockeys when specified by their racing authority or regulatory body.
•    Level 3 – is considered appropriate for general riding, competitions including eventing and working with horses. Level 3 body protectors should prevent minor bruising that would have produced stiffness and pain, reduce soft tissue injuries and prevent a limited number of rib fractures.

There is a separate BETA Standard for shoulder protectors. Research into falls onto the shoulder during eventing competitions revealed that wearing shoulder protection reduces the risk of breaking your collarbone by up to 80%.

Make the most of your body protector

Body protectors should be replaced at least every three to five years, depending on frequency of use and how well the garment has been cared for. After 5 years the impact absorption properties of the foam may have started to decline and if the garment sustains impacts through falls, then the ability of the foam to absorb future impacts will have been compromised.

Garments bearing the now obsolete Level 5 or 7, Class 1, 2 or 3 labels and BETA 2000 Level 1, 2 or 3 should not be worn. You should be wearing a garment bearing the current BETA 2018 Standard.

If you should have a heavy fall, your body protector should be checked immediately for dents. The foam will expand back to its original shape within 30 minutes; but if a dent is showing on examination, then it’s likely that this part of the garment has lost its impact absorption properties and should be replaced.

Hidden damage that a body protector may have sustained is also a good reason for avoiding second-hand garments or those with unknown histories. Taking good care of your body protector means that it will last longer within the three to five year recommended lifespan. So don’t leave it lying around at the yard or in the lorry to be chewed and trodden on. Spending too much time in a hot car or damp tackroom won’t do it any good either.

When not in use, body protectors should be hung on a clothes hanger. Doing up zips ensures they keep their shape, while closing Velcro fastenings will help prevent them becoming clogged with horse hair and hay particles.

Most body protectors are made from heat sensitive PVC nitrile foam, which is why they feel increasingly comfortable as they soften and mould to the wearer’s body. So try storing your protector in a warm (but not artificially hot) environment to ensure it’s nice and flexible for that early morning ride.

Free fittings

Visit a BETA-trained retailer – indicated by a BETA Safety Certificate displayed in-store – to get a free, personalised fitting of your new body protector.

BETA runs regular courses to train retailers in the construction, correct use, fitting and maintenance of body protectors – specialist information they can pass on to you when you visit their tack shops or show stands.

BETA training, some of which is also open to professionals such as instructors, regularly takes place across the UK and Ireland.

So look for the BETA Safety Certificate, and ask for the member of staff named on it to guide you in the selection your new body protector. They will be only too pleased to help, and this unique service won’t cost you a penny more than the price of the garment.

To find your nearest BETA-trained retailer, telephone +44 (0) 1937 587062, email tina@beta-uk.org or search the BETA members database for trained members.

 




What does Level III body armor stop? 

Level 3 body armor is the first tier of bulletproof plate that protects against higher caliber rifle rounds, per NIJ standards. These rounds include the following: 

  • 7.62×39 123gr PS Ball (MSC)
  • 7.62×51 147gr FMJ (M80) – up to 2850 ft/s
  • 5.56x45 55gr (M193) up to 3150 ft/s*  

*NOTE: This plate is not rated to stop M855 or armor piercing rifle rounds.

Differences between soft body armor and hard body armor: 

When choosing between soft body armor and hard body armor, it is important to understand the key distinctions between the two. 

Soft body armor is flexible and designed to stop handgun rounds. Hard body armor, on the other hand, is typically made from more rigid materials such as ceramic, steel or polyethylene, and rated to stop rifle rounds. Soft body armor is generally lighter and more concealable, while hard body armor is heavier and offers more stopping power.

With this distinction in mind, it is important to understand that you won't find Level 3 soft body armor. Anything considered ‘soft armor’ is typically rated Level 3A and below. 


Differences between Level 3A, Level 3, and Level 3+ body armor:

The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) sets the standards for ballistic resistance in body armor. Level 3A and Level 3 are different levels of protection defined by the NIJ. Level 3+ body armor, on the other hand, is not an official designation, and varies depending on the manufacturer.

At Premier Body Armor, the “+” indicates we have tested the armor against ammunition that exceeds the Level 3 NIJ standard. For example, our Stratis Level 3+ plate has been tested against higher powered ammunition in addition to the rounds required for the NIJ rated Level 3 designation, thus earning a Level 3+ body armor rating.

Level 3A body armor provides protection against common handgun rounds up to .44 Magnum and is generally lighter than its higher rated counterparts. Level IIIA you'll find as soft body armor, with all other body armor rated Level 3 and up usually hard armor. You'd be hard pressed to find soft level 3 body armor. Level 3 body armor provides protection against high-powered rifle rounds. It is commonly used by law enforcement and military personnel.

It's important to note that the higher the level of protection, the heavier the armor will be. This is something to consider when selecting body armor for a specific use case.


Should I choose ceramic, steel, or polyethylene level 3 plates?

The choice between ceramic, steel, or polyethylene Level III armor depends on your specific needs and priorities. Consider these factors:

Weight of Level 3 Plates

Of the three, Level 3 ceramic plates are generally the heaviest, although depending on the manufacturer, Level 3 steel plates can be as heavy as ceramic plates. If keeping weight down is critical, polyethylene plates are the best option, as they are typically the lightest of the three. 

Polyethylene has a low density lattice structure at a molecular level. This structure allows air to be trapped inside during the manufacturing process. This keeps weight down while still providing strength, durability, and maneuverability.

Performance of Level 3 Plates

Level 3 polyethylene, steel, and ceramic plates offer the same stopping power against ballistic threats. Steel plates are durable and affordable, but heavier. Ceramic plates are lightweight and do not spall, but are more brittle. Polyethylene plates are lightweight, have a low spalling risk, and can withstand multiple impacts.

Buyers should consider their needs and budget when choosing the right Level 3 body armor.


Most Comfortable Level 3 Plates

Level 3 polyethylene plates are typically the most comfortable plates for extended wear as they are the lightest. Premier Body Armor's Stratis Level 3+ plates are lightweight and Shooter's Cut for optimal performance.


What cut of Level 3 body armor should I get? 

There are many different cuts of Level 3 body armor plates that cater to different scenarios. Traditionally, the military utilizes an ESAPI cut. ESAPI stands for Enhanced Small Arms Protective Insert and provides the most coverage. 

The shooter’s cut on the other hand, is designed for those in active shooting scenarios. Shooter's armor usually has a sharper angle cut on the top corners. This increases arm mobility, particularly for those using rifles regularly. 

The swimmers cut features even more drastic angular cuts than the shooters cut, and often features rounded bottom corners to aid mobility of the legs.

Backpack plates are another type of Level III plate, and feature a different cut than the shooter or ESAPI cuts. Backpack plates are typically longer and more rectangular. This provides a better fit when using the plate in a backpack. Typically, backpack plates will provide a greater area of coverage, though this means they can be heavier than a chest plate.


What plate carrier do I use with Level 3 armor plates? 

When choosing a plate carrier for use with Level 3 armor plates, it is important to consider weight, attachment points, and material. These all play a role in the fit and functionality of each armor system. 

Our Discreet Plate Carrier is a minimalist carrier designed to carry Level 3 or Level 4 armor plates. Fitted with a cummerbund for easy magazine access, the Discreet Plate Carrier is an excellent option for those in search of an easily concealed plate carrier.

 

 

The Core Plate Carrier is another plate carrier offered by Premier Body Armor, and features a rugged, durable design and a reinforced drag handle. The Core Plate Carrier also features a Level 3A soft body armor cummerbund to ensure 360 degrees of protection. 

 

 

Our Hybrid Tactical Vest is another great option for those in need of a plate carrier. While many plate carriers only hold plates, the Hybrid Tactical Vest is a Level 3A soft body armor vest with front and rear plate carrying capacity.

More information on finding the right plate carrier for you can be found at our Plate Carrier Collection.


Level 3 Body Armor FAQs 

Can civilians own level 3 body armor plates?

Yes, civilians can own Level 3 body armor plates in most states in the U.S. However, some states have restrictions on the ownership and purchase of body armor, so it's important to check your local laws before buying.


How much does level 3 body armor weigh?

The weight of Level 3 body armor can vary depending on the specific type and brand. However, most non-polyethylene level 3 plates weigh between 6 and 8 pounds.


What level of armor do cops wear?

Police officers typically wear Level 3A soft armor in their vests, which is designed to protect against handguns and other low-velocity threats. Some officers may opt to wear Level 3 or higher armor in certain situations.


Can an AR-15 penetrate a level 3 ballistic plate?

With body armor, it’s all about velocity. Barrel length can also play a role. Standard Level III plates were never designed to stop 5.56x45 and may struggle with some AR-15 rounds. 

Polyethylene plates that are beefed up (like our Stratis III+ line) are specifically designed to stop 55 grain 5.56x45, commonly referred to as M193 and all 223, but will not stop 62 grain 5.56x45, commonly referred to as M855. Steel level III plates, on the other hand, will generally stop M855 and not M193.

In other words, if stopping ALL rounds from the AR-15 is your primary concern, you may want to err on the side of caution and go with Level IV plates.


Can an AK-47 pierce a level 3 plate?

No, most Level 3 ballistic plates are designed to stop rifle rounds, including the 7.62x39mm rounds fired by an AK-47. All level 3 plates will stop all 7.62x39 rounds.  Level III+ plates are designed to stop 7.62x39mm PS ball (MSC - Mild Steel Core).


Is level 3 body armor concealable?

Level 3 body armor is typically not easily concealable, as it requires plates to provide adequate protection against rifle rounds. However, some plate carriers, such as our Discreet Plate Carrier, are designed to be more low-profile and less bulky.

Do bullets still hurt with armor class 3 plates?

While Level 3 rifle-rated plates are designed to stop bullets and prevent serious injury, the impact can still be jarring and cause discomfort or bruising. It's also important to note that no rifle-rated body armor can provide 100% protection against all threats.


How long do Level 3 plates last?

The lifespan of Level 3 plates can vary depending on the specific type and brand, as well as how often they are used and how well they are maintained. However, most Level 3 plates are designed to last for several years with proper care.


Are Level 3 plates stab proof or knife resistant?

Level 3 plates are not designed to be stab proof or knife resistant. They are designed to stop bullets and other ballistic threats, not sharp objects. While they may fare better than no armor at all, it is recommended that those looking for protection against stabbing or slashing attacks consider stab-resistant armor.

What is a Level 3 body protector?

Level III Plates / Level 3 Body Armor