[ OVERVIEW ]
We selected these DFNDR Armor rifle rated plates specifically for use with our ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3 Ultralight Minimalist plate carrier for elite military, law enforcement and freedom-loving citizens.
Each Package Includes (Depending on Armor Rating Selected):
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LEVEL III+C
2 x DFNDR Armor Medium Level III+ C Stand-Alone Rifle Rated Hard Plates
(9.5" x 12.5" x 1.1")
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LEVEL IV
2 x DFNDR Armor Medium Level IV Stand-Alone Rifle Rated Hard Plates
(9.5" x 12.5" x 1.1")
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RF1
1 x Shooter Cut DFNDR Armor RF1 Elite Stand-Alone Rifle Rated Hard Plates
(10" x 12" x 0.75")
1 x SAPI Cut DFNDR Armor RF1 Elite Stand-Alone Rifle Rated Hard Plates
(10" x 12" x 0.75")
The DFNDR Armor rifle rated hard armor plates are independently tested to NIJ protocols. Designed with a multi-curve profile to provide an ergonomic and comfortable fitting armor system that is intended to wear against your body all day. Combined with a light weight of just 2.1 - 5.8 pounds per plate (depending on armor rating selection) to reduce fatigue, DFNDR Armor® Rifle Rated Body Armor is equipped with a state of the art Trauma Mitigation Base to minimize the energy of an impact dramatically.
Tested at muzzle velocities which are listed in the table below and describes the rated ammunition each armor system will defeat. DFNDR Armor® is engineered with the highest grade of ballistic materials; Fiber-Lite Laminate, an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) bound with a resin matrix to make it a hard stand-alone armor system and equipped with Spall-Tek to further reduce spall and deflection of projectile fragments. This armor can be inserted into almost any plate carrier but is fully optimized for our ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3 Ultralight Minimalist Plate Carrier.
- Proudly Made in the United States of America
- Multi-Hit Protection
- Priced Per Pair
- Stand-Alone System
We selected these DFNDR Armor rifle rated plates specifically for use with our ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3 Ultralight Minimalist Plate Carrier for Military, Law Enforcement, and Freedom-Loving Citizens.
For safety reasons, all armor sales are final. No returns or exchanges. No exceptions.
[ SPECIFICATIONS ]
Here is how Level III+ C, Level IV, and RF1 armor plates stack up against each other in terms of specifications:
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Hesco Level III |
Hesco Level IV |
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Price |
$410pp |
$550pp |
$1600pp |
3402 $370, 3800C $455, 3800 $580 |
4400 $220, 4601 $630, 4800 $1490 |
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Weight |
3.1lbs |
5.8lbs |
2.1Ibs |
3800 2.2lbs, 3800C 2.4lbs, 3402 3.2lbs |
4800 4.9lbs, 4601 6.4lbs, 4400 7.9lbs |
|
Armor Defeats |
.308, 7.62x51, 7.62x39 PS Ball Russian, 7.62x39 Mild Steel Core Chinese, 5.56x45 |
7.62x63 AP M2, 7.62x63 JSP, 7.62x54 R-L, 7.62x54 R-LPS, 7.62x54 R-B-32 API, 7.62x51 Steel Jacket M80, 7.62x39 API, 7.62x39 PS, 7.62x39 MSC, 7.62x39 Ball, 5.56x45 M193, 5.56x45 M855/SS109 |
5.56x45mm M193 Ball, 7.62x51mm M80 Ball, 7.62x39mm Chinese Mild Steel Core, Russian PS Ball |
5.56x45 M193, 7.62x39 M67, 7.62x51 M80, 7.62x39 m43. 3800 and 3402 also stop 7.62x63 JSP |
5.56x45 M193, 5.56x45 M855/SS109, 7.62x39 M67, 7.62x51 M80, 7.62x39 m43, 7.62x63 JSP, 7.62x54R LPS, 7.62x39 API, 7.62x54R B-32 API, 7.62x51 M61, 7.62x63 AP M2. 4601 and 4800 also stop M855A1 and M80A1 |
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Size |
1.1” |
1.1” |
0.75" |
3402 1.22”, 3800C .95”, 3800 1.05” |
4400 .83”, 4601 1.18”, 4800 1.04” |
|
Material |
Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber |
Crystalline Ceramic Strike Face, proprietary System Structural Reinforcement technology, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber |
Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber |
Ceramic Composite |
Ceramic Composite |
[ USE CASES FOR DFNDR PLATES ]
Military & Law Enforcement: DFNDR Armor plates are a great fit for law enforcement officers and soldiers entering an environment that calls for better than level IIIA protection but doesn’t want to compromise mobility. Meeting NIJ requirements for ballistic resistance, these plates provide the necessary protection against rifle threats encountered in the line of duty. The multi-hit capability of these armor plates ensures that the user remains protected when facing repeated fire – a critical factor in high-threat scenarios.
Security Personnel: The DFNDR Armor plates offer a balance between high-level rifle protection and the mobility needed for various security tasks. Their compatibility with different plate carriers, including the ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3 Ultralight Minimalist Plate Carrier, makes them a flexible choice for security teams needing a reliable ballistic plate that can withstand special threats while maintaining a low profile.
Civilians: For civilians seeking protection in unpredictable environments, these bullet-resistant plates provide peace of mind with their rifle-rated protection. The ergonomic multi-curve profile of the plates makes them suitable for everyday wear without compromising comfort.
LEVEL III+C VS LEVEL IV vs RF1 PLATES
When choosing your body armor, it’s important to understand the distinctions between Level III+C, Level IV, and RF1 plates. All three are classified as hard armor plates but cater to different threat levels. Level III+C plates are tested to withstand 7.62mm lead-core rifle ammunition, commonly used in AK-47s, making them suitable for protection against high-velocity threats. Bullets with a steel penetrator like the M855 green tip may penetrate through Level III+C armor. On the other hand, Level IV plates are designed to stop armor-piercing rounds up to 30-06 AP, providing an even higher protection rating.
Level III+ plates, such as the DFNDR Armor Level III+ C, position themselves uniquely between Level III and Level IV plates. They offer enhanced protection that exceeds standard Level III specifications, capable of handling additional special threats like green tip rounds. These plates offer the unencumbered benefits of lightweight Level III with a higher protection level that is more comparable to Level IV plates. Our newest offering, the RF1 Elite meets defeats an increased range of threats over the Level III+ C, while weighing a scant 2.09 Ibs per plate. For a deeper understanding of how these levels compare, we invite you to consult our comprehensive Body Armor Levels Guide.
DFNDR PLATES ARE BUILT FOR THE ELITE USER
DFNDR Armor is not just engineered for any user but for elite professionals and highly-prepared citizens. This armor plate is not for the faint of heart, as it’s designed to meet the rigorous demands of military personnel, law enforcement agencies, and high-risk security environments. Each plate offers multi-hit capability, ensuring that it can protect against repeated fire from rifle rounds, a vital feature in high-stakes situations.
For the ultimate tactical setup, pair these plates with ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3 Plate Carrier. This combination maximizes protection and mobility, making it an ideal choice for those who require reliable ballistic armor in intense tactical situations.
WHY CHOOSE QORE PERFORMANCE FOR YOUR PLATES?
At Qore Performance, we are committed to Building A Superhuman Future.® We chose to distribute DFNDR Armor due to their matching alignment with our our dedication to providing innovation and quality to our customers. Designed with the end-user in mind, these plates are proudly made in the United States and embody the highest standards of safety and efficiency.
These armor plates are perfectly compatible with our ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3 Plate Carrier, ensuring a seamless fit that enhances performance without sacrificing comfort. Choosing to shop for armor via Qore Performance means investing in top-tier, high-performing armor products that you can trust to protect your vital organs and keep you safe in even the most demanding tactical situations.
FAQS
Yes, these level III rifle plates are designed to be compatible with standard plate carrier sizes. However, they are specifically optimized for use with ourICEPLATE EXO® Ultralight Ventilated Plate Carrier, ensuring the best fit and performance when used together. Compatibility with other carriers may vary depending on the specific design and size requirements of those systems.
National Institute of Justice level III plates are classified as hard armor, not soft. They are specifically designed to stop rifle rounds, which are more powerful than handgun rounds and other small arms fire. Unlike a trauma pad, which is used for impact absorption and does not offer ballistic protection, level III plates are designed to stop high-velocity rifle rounds. These plates are much stronger and more durable than soft armor!
A multi-curve profile in body armor plates offers enhanced comfort and a better fit compared to single curve designs. This is because multi-curve plates are shaped to more closely match the contours of the wearer's body, leading to improved mobility and less discomfort during extended use. This ergonomic design can be particularly beneficial in high-movement or tactical situations.
***IMPORTANT: Subject to U.S. law. No international shipping permitted.***
DFNDR Armor is designed and manufactured by DFNDR Armor in Camarillo, CA. ICEPLATE EXO® is designed, manufactured and fulfilled in our Knoxville, TN USA HQ from US materials. US and International Patents Pending.
Customer Reviews
Based on 3 reviews
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N
Yo, so like, ballistic plate armor? Total game-changer, no cap. It’s like having a boss shield that’s built to flex and keep you safe when the heat is on. These things are mad durable, almost like wearing a bodyguard in your fit, making sure you stay Gucci even when the situation gets lit.
Honestly, the tech in these plates is next level—light enough to not weigh you down but strong enough to handle all the smoke. It’s straight fire for real, especially when you’re out here in the field or just tryna stay plugged in about your safety.
Lowkey, the only vibe is making sure you got the right fit—because a weak plate is a no-go, fam. But overall? It’s a W. Keeps you protected, looking fresh, and ready for whatever the streets or missions throw at you. Stay safe, stay stacked. GFYMITA .
L
Are you afraid of spending a couple months savings on a pair of these plates? I sure was! I'm to the point where I've tried several brands of plates and I was sick and tired of spending money on cheap ceramics, steel (oof bad idea), surplus ceramics, (super bad idea), and everything else. If I would just have bought these in the first place I would not have waisted $1000 in the past 10 years on plates. These are remarkably light weight for being rated as they are. They fit PERFECTLY in the qore performance carrier, the curve of the plates are the most comfortable of any other curved plates I've tried. Just perfect in every way. Absolutely worth the money.
Great review and great title Lucas - thank you so much for taking the time to share it with the community! #StayFrosty
J
I felt the need to upgrade my plates recently since I live not too far from the locations of civil unrest and have a government job that requires me to go closer to the madness from time to time. (Level IIIA wasn't going to cut it - whether it was my soft armor or my IIIA hard plates.) The DFNDR Level III plates fit perfectly in the EXO, are light enough that I can move quickly when needed, conform perfectly with IcePlate, and will stop any realistic ballistic threat I would encounter. These plates are superior in every way to the cheaper, heavier, and non-NIJ certified plates you can find elsewhere. I hope to never put these to the true test, but I'm confident that they'll do exactly what they're designed to do - help keep me on the right side of the ground.
Thanks Qore for partnering with a solid company and helping me stay just a little safer. And thanks for shipping these out the same day I placed my order. You guys are AWESOME!
