LEVEL IIIA SOFT ARMOR

RTS Tactical’s Level IIIA (HG2) soft armor collection is built for situations where mobility, concealability, and consistent wear matter as much as stopping power. This lineup focuses on soft body armor engineered to defeat common handgun threats while remaining comfortable enough for close-contact work and hot environments. From concealable vest panels to plate carrier inserts, side coverage, and specialty solutions, each option is designed to serve as a dependable first layer of ballistic protection.

When rifle plates are unnecessary or impractical, Level IIIA (HG2) soft armor provides a practical balance—serious body protection against pistol rounds without the bulk of hard armor plates.

Level IIIA, now known as HG2, represents the highest threat level for soft armor under legacy NIJ standards. Under NIJ 0101.06, Level IIIA soft armor is tested against high-energy handgun threats, including .357 SIG and .44 Magnum, representing the upper end of handgun rounds encountered in duty environments.

Under the updated NIJ framework, handgun armor is classified using HG ratings, with HG2 aligning with the protection previously labeled Level IIIA. While the naming has evolved, the performance intent remains consistent: reliable resistance to handgun threats at higher velocities than lower handgun armor ratings.

RTS Tactical clearly distinguishes products built to NIJ 0101.06 Level IIIA (HG2) language and those conforming with NIJ 0101.07 HG2 testing so users understand exactly what standard their armor is built to meet.

Soft armor is only effective when it can be worn comfortably and consistently, which is why RTS Tactical Level IIIA armor prioritizes low bulk and flexibility. These panels and inserts are shaped to follow the body, reduce pressure points, and stay stable during movement. Focus on comfort, update first sentence

For police officers and other law enforcement professionals working long shifts, breathable carrier designs and low-profile soft armor panels help manage heat and fatigue. Less bulk improves comfort in vehicles and tight interiors, while proper flexibility allows the armor to move naturally with the torso instead of fighting it. 

This focus on lightweight protection is especially beneficial in warm climates, plainclothes roles, or operations that demand unrestricted movement and minimal encumbrance.

This collection includes a wide range of components that allow users to tailor coverage without overbuilding their kit:

• Soft armor inserts sized for common carrier pockets, often used as plate carrier inserts when rifle plates are unnecessary
• Full-coverage soft armor panels designed for concealable carriers and duty vests
• Cummerbund inserts and side panels that expand lateral protection while maintaining balance
• Specialty options like backpack armor panels and fragmentation blankets for specific use cases

Although often referred to casually as soft armor plates or soft armor carrier systems, these intentionally crafted components are true ballistic armor inserts engineered for handgun-rated protection.

Each option supports modular tactical body armor setups that adapt to the role and the environment.

NIJ-certified soft armor is evaluated under repeated impacts. Panels are subjected to multiple hits placed across the surface to measure penetration resistance and backface deformation. Our testing approach goes beyond industry standards, simulating multiple impacts on a single panel to ensure consistent performance.

RTS Tactical Level IIIA armor is engineered to maintain bullet-resistant performance throughout these tests, providing consistent ballistic inserts that meet defined NIJ criteria rather than single-impact demonstrations. Level IIIA armor is intended as a first layer of ballistic defense, providing handgun-rated protection for close-contact and mobility-driven environments.

Level IIIA/HG2 is handgun-rated ballistic protection. Stab/spike protection requires a separate rating (NIJ 0115.00) or a model that’s explicitly listed as stab/spike resistant. Users requiring dual-threat personal protection should select armor specifically tested for both ballistic and stabbing hazards.

RTS Tactical Level IIIA armor is designed to work seamlessly with RTS Tactical carriers, vests, and apparel systems. Many users pair armor inserts with RTS Tactical plate carriers for scalable coverage or RTS Tactical compression shirts for discreet, close-to-body wear.

Multiple cuts and sizes ensure correct fit across different body types and coverage zones, helping armor stay positioned where it’s meant to protect. This system-based approach allows professionals to configure body armor that supports their mission instead of restricting it.

Trusted by thousands of departments, RTS Tactical soft armor reflects feedback from law enforcement agencies who depend on reliable ballistic armor day after day.