Quoted: Does anyone know if a level 2 or 3a vest would slow a .223 round to less than fragmenting velocities? ...
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Don’t know.
FWIW, I have shot level IIA vests with .223’s at close range and the rounds went through both the front and back panels!
I have heard of level IIIA Body Bunkers (shields) stopping rifle rounds in real life situations. Obviously, barrel length of the rifle, distance, angle, etc. can make a difference in whether or not a round actually goes through.
Once, I shot a .223 into a level IIIA vest with a thin trauma plate and the round was stopped (just barely). However, I’ve always felt that was a fluke. The vest in question was an old, thick, heavy and very stiff unit – certainly nothing like vests sold today.
If you want assurance that a vest will stop a .223, you need a level III.
While the run of the mill trauma plates found in soft body armor won’t do much as far as stopping rifle rounds, there are plates available that are rated for rifle rounds. They are both much heavier and more expensive than regular plates. Also, they don’t really protect much of your body (though sizes can vary).
Lastly, personal preference – but I’d stay away from anything made with Spectra!