The Hesco 3612 is a certified NIJ Level III+ rifle plate that hits the sweet spot most buyers are actually looking for: it stops the common rifle threats, including 5.56 green tip M855 and 7.62x51 M80, in a light, thin, stand-alone plate. At about 4.0 lb in the SAPI Medium cut and a true 1.00 inch thick, it is one of the lighter certified hard plates we carry.

Level III+ means the 3612 defeats lead core and mild steel core rifle rounds, the threats most shooters and defenders are likely to face. It does not stop armor piercing rounds, which require a Level IV plate. Because it is stand alone, no soft armor backer is required, and the multi-curve shape wraps the torso for all-day comfort.

Every plate is NIJ 0101.06 certified, built with advanced composite construction, and ships as a set of two for front and back coverage, wrapped in a water repellent Cordura finish.

The closely related Hesco 3612C is a near twin in a law enforcement cut at a slightly different weight. If you need armor piercing protection, step up to a Level IV plate such as the certified Hesco 4601 or the lighter, compliant Hesco 4800. If you want to save weight and only need Level III protection without green tip coverage, look at the Hesco 3802C.

Best for: buyers who want certified Level III+ rifle protection, including 5.56 green tip, in a light and comfortable plate, without paying for Level IV.

Made in the USA by HESCO.