An Ultra-light plate to
stop Level III threats. 100% high molecular weight Polyethylene is
~.9" thick (~23 mm.), and more expensive, but INCREDIBLY LIGHT.
The main tradeoff is you
don't get a protection rating for Level IV Armor-Piercing (AP) threats such
as .3006 or 7.62 by 51mm AP, or the semi-AP 5.56mm SS-109 / M-855 (the M-16
round). Will stop the common AK-47 MILD Steel Core 7.62 X 39mm threat, though.
Important Safety Note
(A safety warning most Polyethylene
/ Ultra-light Rifle vendors neglect to mention...)
You should know that the ballistic performance of ALL Polyethylene may be adversely
affected, or permanently reduced, by prolonged exposure to ambient temperatures
below ~MINUS 15°F (-26° Celsius) and over 175°F (79° Celsius). Never expose
to open flame, excessive direct sunlight, UV exposure or any hot surface. Heat
damage to the surface (e.g., melting) is a visual clue that the plate may have
been exposed to elevated temperatures. If damage is found, replace the plate.
Don't take any chances by leaving your Rifle Plates in extremely cold or hot
environments, e.g.:
- letting them "cook" in the sun
- a closed vehicle super-heating in the sun
- an engine compartment, unprotected on asphalt in intense sun
- unprotected on top of metal baking in the sun, etc., etc.
If
it's too hot for your body, DON'T LEAVE YOUR RIFLE PLATES THERE!