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12/22/2014 3:47:49 AM EDT
So, I got the wife one of the $50 plate carriers from Shellback, and now I need plates.  She isn't gonna want anything heavy like my Spartan plates from Targetman.  So, what are my other options?  Looking for as light as possible, but not looking to break the bank either.  Thanks for any info.
12/22/2014 4:12:24 AM EDT
[#1]
As far as I know, the lightweight standalone plates are pretty pricey. There are some "not as heavy" level IV plates out there, but you are unlikely to find anything under 6 pounds or so without spending at least $300 a plate. But can you really put a price on your life or that of your wife?
12/22/2014 4:33:53 AM EDT
[#2]
Quote History
Quoted:
As far as I know, the lightweight standalone plates are pretty pricey. There are some "not as heavy" level IV plates out there, but you are unlikely to find anything under 6 pounds or so without spending at least $300 a plate. But can you really put a price on your life or that of your wife?
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I was looking at those level IV plates from Targetman...I do like that they are lighter....I may end up going that route, and if I like them, eventually get me some to replace my heavy ass level III plates.
12/22/2014 1:40:13 PM EDT
[#3]
Quote History
Quoted:


I was looking at those level IV plates from Targetman...I do like that they are lighter....I may end up going that route, and if I like them, eventually get me some to replace my heavy ass level III plates.
View Quote View All Quotes
View All Quotes
Quote History
Quoted:
Quoted:
As far as I know, the lightweight standalone plates are pretty pricey. There are some "not as heavy" level IV plates out there, but you are unlikely to find anything under 6 pounds or so without spending at least $300 a plate. But can you really put a price on your life or that of your wife?


I was looking at those level IV plates from Targetman...I do like that they are lighter....I may end up going that route, and if I like them, eventually get me some to replace my heavy ass level III plates.


If you are considering budget level IV plates from Targetman, you aren't actually looking for something lightweight. Either that, or you define what is light very different than most, when it comes to armor.

Lightweight plates are very expensive, whether level III or IV.
12/22/2014 5:26:34 PM EDT
[#4]
Light= pricey. I paid over 2 grand for Velocity Systems' PBZ plates and backers. Having my plates,  carrier, mag pouch, and three 30 round AR mags come in under 13 pounds is worth it, at least to me.
12/22/2014 9:11:57 PM EDT
[#5]
Quote History
Quoted:


If you are considering budget level IV plates from Targetman, you aren't actually looking for something lightweight. Either that, or you define what is light very different than most, when it comes to armor.

Lightweight plates are very expensive, whether level III or IV.
View Quote View All Quotes
View All Quotes
Quote History
Quoted:
Quoted:
Quoted:
As far as I know, the lightweight standalone plates are pretty pricey. There are some "not as heavy" level IV plates out there, but you are unlikely to find anything under 6 pounds or so without spending at least $300 a plate. But can you really put a price on your life or that of your wife?


I was looking at those level IV plates from Targetman...I do like that they are lighter....I may end up going that route, and if I like them, eventually get me some to replace my heavy ass level III plates.


If you are considering budget level IV plates from Targetman, you aren't actually looking for something lightweight. Either that, or you define what is light very different than most, when it comes to armor.

Lightweight plates are very expensive, whether level III or IV.


I guess I am looking for something that is lighter than my steel plates from Targetman.  It looks like the composite level IV plates are about 1.6 lbs lighter per plate.  So every bit helps.
12/22/2014 10:14:41 PM EDT
[#6]
Quoted:
So, I got the wife one of the $50 plate carriers from Shellback, and now I need plates.  She isn't gonna want anything heavy like my Spartan plates from Targetman.  So, what are my other options?  Looking for as light as possible, but not looking to break the bank either.  Thanks for any info.
View Quote


not sure what threats you are working against, but Botach has low-price point plates. Some are less than 16oz. reportedly for IIIA. I was intrigued enough to order a plate for a particular use.

http://www.botach.com/duty-gear/ballistic-gear/ballistic-plates/

Grey Ghost is running 15% off too - http://www.greyghostgear.com/category-s/1819.htm. No direct experience with their plates, but the FTA labeling is pretty cool. Always have had good experience with GGG.
12/25/2014 11:09:56 AM EDT
[#7]
Midwest Armor has "special threat" plates rated for M855, and 7.62X39 Steel core. They are .5 inches and weight 4-5 lbs.  I have a set, they are very light and  low profile. Will stop most common rifle rounds. I run a Crye JPC with these and side plates very light and comfy.All have IIIA backers.

http://www.midwestarmor.com/body-armor/venture-fm-stx

They also have a 6X8 plate with same rating:

http://www.midwestarmor.com/body-armor/venture-fm-stx-micro-6x8

Hope that helps.
12/25/2014 1:26:46 PM EDT
[#8]
Military SAPI's (not ESAPI) are often overlooked. Mediums come in at 4.5lbs, smalls at 4lbs (IIRC).
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