Level III (Level 3) plates stop common lead-core rifle threats including 5.56 M193, 7.62x51 M80 ball, and 7.62x39, but not 5.56 green tip M855 or armor-piercing rounds. They are the entry point to rifle protection: lighter and more affordable than higher levels, and the right choice when your threat profile is standard rifle fire. We carry American-made Level III plates in lightweight ceramic and polyethylene from Hesco and LTC, including options light enough to float.
If you also want to stop 5.56 green tip M855, step up to Level III+, and for armor-piercing protection see Level IV. Each product page lists exact weights, thickness, and the full tested-against list. New to armor levels? Our complete body armor guide breaks down what each level stops.
