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Posted: 8/3/2012 2:21:59 PM EDT
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Howdy Gents I am looking for some advice. I am interested in purchasing my first plate carrier/plate setup and need some direction. To get some basic info out of the way: I am looking for advice regarding what make/model of plates to buy, I am a civillian, planning to create a set up for SHTF what have you. I am thinking about going with a PIG plate carrier, as it has quite a large set of followers, and excellent reviews. I do not know exactly what strength of plates I need, but I am thinking standalone level IV, due to the proliferation of the m855 available at all major retail outlets in my area. I would like to keep it under a grand for the entire set up, but I plan to save up for these items over the course of 6 months so, plus or minus a few benjamins is not a big deal. Also I have heard the term spalling spoken about with regards to rifle plate damage after bullet impact, how often does this happen, and what if anything is suggested to mitigate these effects? Thanks |
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Quoted:
Howdy Gents I am looking for some advice. I am interested in purchasing my first plate carrier/plate setup and need some direction. To get some basic info out of the way: I am looking for advice regarding what make/model of plates to buy, I am a civillian, planning to create a set up for SHTF what have you. I am thinking about going with a PIG plate carrier, as it has quite a large set of followers, and excellent reviews. I do not know exactly what strength of plates I need, but I am thinking standalone level IV, due to the proliferation of the m855 available at all major retail outlets in my area. I would like to keep it under a grand for the entire set up, but I plan to save up for these items over the course of 6 months so, plus or minus a few benjamins is not a big deal. Also I have heard the term spalling spoken about with regards to rifle plate damage after bullet impact, how often does this happen, and what if anything is suggested to mitigate these effects? Thanks Wait and get the Sigma+ when it comes out. It fits exactly what you are describing. |
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The SAPI plates sold by Bulletproofme.com are made by LTC Corp (Defense Contractor). With plate backers it will stop multiple hits of M855 with no penetration, as well as .308, 7.62X39, and lesser threats.
Level IV plates are rated for a single hit and not generally tested for multi-hit. Getting a 1/2" thick SAPI plate that weights 5 lbs (medium) and adding a 1 pound plate backer of level 3A kevlar is much more comfortable than a .75" thick level four plate without any plate backers. Both wil give you a similar protection profile with the exception of Level IV stopping one round of AP2 armor piercing .30-06. Soft armor adds comfort as well as reduces blunt trauma if you get hit. It is much better to have a little padding to dispurse the feeling of getting smacked by a baseball bat in the chest. Just a plate would increase the blunt trauma and do much more damage. You can get two SAPI plates at bulletproofme.com for around $560-580. That is a very good price for brand new military quality plates that fit any plate carrier. |
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Pay attention to weight. As someone who probably won't train or use your plates for extended periods of time (in comparison to your everyday grunt where a couple pounds here and there makes no big difference), you will notice the weight of a loaded down plate carrier. When your carrier has plates in it, plus a loadout of various magazines, doodads, med kit, and everything else that may seem like a good idea at the time, a long distance hike or standing around in your armor will probably make you want to dump it.
As many have said before me: Ounces equals pounds, pounds equals pain. |
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