Level 3+ body armor (RF2) sits between Level III and Level IV: the RF1 rifle threats plus 5.56 M855 green tip, in a lightweight multi-hit plate. Models differ in weight, curve and whether they work stand-alone or ICW.
Level III+ is not a rating of the original NIJ 0101.06 standard. It is the name used for plates that go beyond Level III, and in the newer NIJ 0101.07 labels the class is RF2: the RF1 threats (7.62x51 M80, 7.62x39 MSC and 5.56 M193) plus 5.56 M855 green tip. That is why our product names read "NIJ III+ (RF2)". Searches for level 3+ body armor, level 3+ plates or level III+ plates all point to this rating.
A III+ plate is a good match when you want more than plain Level III but not the weight of Level IV. For armor-piercing rifle rounds, choose Level IV.
All of our III+ plates are multi-hit and have an anatomic curve for comfort, and they are sold individually: select quantity 2 for a pair. Each can be used in a low profile plate carrier.
Weight, price and stand-alone or ICW rating differ by model, so compare them on the product pages before you choose.
Pick the plate size first and the plate carrier size second. The plate should cover your vital organs without limiting how you move your arms; the Find my size tool on each product page turns two or three measurements into the right option. Buying plates and a carrier together? Our guide how to buy the right body armor and plate carrier covers the match.
RF2 is a rifle rating in NIJ Standard 0101.07. It covers the RF1 threats (7.62x51 M80, 7.62x39 MSC and 5.56 M193) plus 5.56 M855 green tip. Plates sold as Level III+ usually carry this label.
Not in the original 0101.06 standard. Level III+ is the everyday name for plates that exceed Level III. In NIJ 0101.07 the equivalent rating is RF2, and our product names show both.
ICW stands for in conjunction with: the plate is rated when worn together with a soft armor backer. Plates without the ICW label are rated stand-alone. The product page states which one applies.
Choose Level IV if armor-piercing rifle rounds are part of the threat you plan for. Choose III+ if you want more protection than Level III at a lower weight than Level IV. See the Level IV plates to compare weights.
