When it comes to body armor, hesitation isn’t an option—but choosing the right protection doesn’t have to be overwhelming. For first-time buyers, NIJ levels may seem complicated. Once you learn the basics, the system becomes much clearer, giving you the confidence to choose the right gear for your mission.
At RTS Tactical, we believe every modern hero deserves equipment they can trust. That starts with understanding how NIJ armor levels are organized, both under the long-standing 0101.06 standard and the updated 0101.07 system.
What Are NIJ Standards and Why Do They Matter?
The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) sets the U.S. standard for ballistic protection. Its test protocols determine if armor can stop the threats it claims to stop.
For decades, NIJ body armor levels have given military, law enforcement, and civilian defenders a shared language to evaluate armor. Today, you may encounter two systems: the familiar 0101.06 and the updated 0101.07. Both remain relevant, and both are worth understanding.
NIJ Standard 0101.06: The Classic Levels
The 2008 framework uses numbered categories to define which threats armor is designed to stop.
- Level IIA: Lightest and most flexible; tested against 9mm and .40 S&W at lower velocities.
- Level II: Covers higher-velocity 9mm and .357 Magnum.
- Level IIIA: The most common soft armor, tested against .357 SIG and .44 Magnum.
- Level III: Rifle-rated hard armor, tested against 7.62mm FMJ (NATO).
- Level IV: The highest level body armor under 0101.06, tested against .30-06 M2 AP rounds.
NIJ Standard 0101.07: The New Classification System
The 2023 revision introduced major changes. Instead of numbered NIJ body armor levels, the new framework uses HG (Handgun) and RF (Rifle) categories. Importantly, the specific test threats are now published separately in NIJ Standard 0123.00: Specification for NIJ Ballistic Protection Levels and Associated Test Threats.
The categories are:
- HG1: Provides protection comparable to former Levels IIA/II, tested against handgun threats such as 9mm FMJ RN and .357 Magnum JSP.
- HG2: Roughly comparable to Level IIIA, tested against stronger handgun threats like 9mm FMJ RN and .44 Magnum JHP.
- RF1: Rifle protection similar to Level III, covering 7.62mm NATO and comparable rounds.
- RF2: A new category that builds on RF1 by adding higher-velocity rifle threats, including 5.56mm M855 “green tip.”
- RF3: Comparable to Level IV, tested against .30-06 M2 AP, representing the highest level body armor under the new standard.
Note: HG and RF categories are not exact “replacements” for old levels. They reflect updated testing protocols and modern ballistic threats identified by law enforcement.
Other Key Updates in NIJ 0101.07
Beyond the change in NIJ protection levels, the new standard introduced:
- New test methods for women’s armor panels, including better clay backings and shot placements.
- More rigorous soft armor testing, including angled shots at the top edge of vests.
- Crown strike testing for curved plates, addressing a known vulnerability point.
- Alignment with ASTM standards, harmonizing U.S. testing with broader industry practices.
These changes ensure NIJ armor levels reflect real-world threats and vulnerabilities more accurately than ever before.
How to Choose the Right NIJ Level for Your Mission
Different missions call for different levels of protection.
- Civilians may look at HG1 or HG2 (comparable to Levels II–IIIA) for discreet handgun defense.
- Law enforcement officers often rely on HG2 (similar to IIIA), with optional rifle-rated plates (RF1–RF3) as needed.
- Military or high-threat environments may require RF1 through RF3 for rifle protection.
Ultimately, there’s no universal answer. The right choice depends on your mission, comfort, and the level of protection you believe is necessary.
Beyond the NIJ Rating: What Really Matters
A ballistic rating is only part of the equation. First-time buyers should also consider:
- Comfort & Mobility: Armor that restricts movement can compromise performance.
- Weight & Profile: Balance endurance with protection. The right plate for the right mission.
- American-Made Integrity: RTS Tactical armor isn’t just rated—it’s built with purpose, durability, and trust.
Stand Strong With RTS Tactical
RTS Tactical designs and manufactures American-made, mission-ready body armor trusted by law enforcement, military, and civilian defenders. Every plate and carrier is built with integrity to give modern heroes the confidence they need when it matters most.
Understanding NIJ body armor levels, both 0101.06 and 0101.07, can make your decision clearer and help you choose protection that matches your mission. At the end of the day, the choice is yours. When danger strikes, having armor you trust makes all the difference.
Gear up. Stand strong. Be fearless with RTS Tactical.
References:
National Institute of Justice. Ballistic Resistance of Body Armor, NIJ Standard 0101.07.