Spartan Armor Systems: Latest News

USA-Made Ballistic Helmets

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 15:49:02 +0000

We've partnered with ArmorSource! One of the world’s largest manufacturers of high performance, ballistic, life-saving head protection solutions.

Serving military and law enforcement organizations around the globe, we offer state of the art, in house design, R&D, manufacturing, and testing capabilities. Our capacity to produce, paired with our dedication to innovate allows us to respond quickly and to meet our customers exact needs and specifications.

Understanding Backpack Armor

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 09:25:11 +0000

What Is Backpack Armor?

Backpack armor is a discreet armor panel designed to be carried inside a standard everyday backpack. From the outside, the bag looks like a normal school or work backpack with no tactical appearance. Inside, the armor insert adds an extra layer of protection without sacrificing comfort or mobility. In an emergency, the backpack can be rotated to help shield the torso.

Backpack armor is built for daily carrying, prioritizing a low profile, lightweight materials, and real-world usability.

Is Backpack Armor Legal?

The backpack itself is not regulated. The primary legal consideration is the armor panel inside.

In most states, body armor is legal for law-abiding civilians. Laws typically restrict the use of armor during the commission of a crime or prohibit possession by individuals with felony convictions. Some states and local jurisdictions may have additional restrictions, particularly on school property. Please visit our Body Armor Laws By State Here

Before carrying backpack armor on campus, consider:

Your intent (lawful personal protection)
Your state’s laws
Your criminal record
Your school’s policies

When in doubt, always review local regulations and campus guidelines.

Why Carry Body Armor on Campus?

While still relatively uncommon, active shooter incidents have occurred at schools and universities across the U.S., leaving lasting impacts on students, parents, and faculty. The frequency of these events that are often highlighted in national news have made personal safety a growing concern on campuses of all sizes.

Personal safety tools, such as discreet body armor, can provide added peace of mind. This conversation is no longer limited to campus police or security teams. As school-related violence continues to make headlines, personal preparedness has become part of broader campus safety awareness for students, staff, and families.

Does Backpack Armor Actually Work?

Yes, when paired with a properly rated armor panel.

A backpack itself is not ballistic. Protection comes from the armor insert. Spartan Armor Systems’ Flex Fused Core™ Soft Armor Backpack Panel is rated Level IIIA/HG2 and is designed to stop most common handgun rounds, including:

9mm
.40 S&W
.45 ACP
.357 SIG
.38 Special
.357 Magnum
.44 Magnum

This level of protection balances safety, flexibility, and comfort, making it practical for everyday carry. Watch our video below to see how our Level IIIA armor stands up to the most rigorous of tests.

What About Rifle Protection?

Rifle-rated armor (Level III or higher) can be carried inside a backpack, but it comes with tradeoffs. Hard rifle plates add significant weight and rigidity, which can make daily use uncomfortable, especially for students already carrying books, laptops, and other gear.

For most people, handgun protection in a lightweight, flexible backpack armor panel is the most practical option for consistent, all-day carry.

The Flex Fused Core™ Soft Armor Backpack Panel

Proudly made in the USA and manufactured in-house in Tucson, AZ, the Flex Fused Core™ Soft Armor Backpack Panel is designed for real-world use—not just specifications on paper.

What you get:

Level IIIA protection against most handgun threats
Flexible soft armor material (commonly known as Kevlar®)
Slim profile at just 0.35" thick
Lightweight design at approximately 1.6 lbs (11” x 14”)
Multiple size options for backpacks, purses, and sling bags
TSA approved backpack armor (Synthetic Fabric Won’t Trigger Alarms)

Backpack armor isn’t about fear, it’s about preparedness and peace of mind, carried discreetly every day.

If you have questions, our team is always here to help!

Get in Touch:

Phone: Give us a Call/Text at (520) 396-3335
Email: info@spartanarmorsystems.com

Body Armor Laws by State - Know Your Rights

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 10:50:13 +0000

With all the talk of possible new restrictions being imposed on firearm ownership, we have been seeing increasingly more people asking the question, is it legal to own body armor? It's been a while since we've touched on this subject so we thought now would be a good time to look at the most up to date body armor laws in all 50 states. In general, yes, it is legal for normal civilians to buy and own body armor. Is it always legal to own body armor? Well... it depends. You have the right to protect yourself and your family from harm within bounds of the law. As a citizen of the United States, you have the legal right to purchase and wear body armor for personal or professional use if you don't have any prior history of committing a crime. You don't have to go through a background check or submit any special paperwork to buy a set of body armor plates, and it is legal to own in all 50 states of the United States. Sounds pretty cut and dry, right? Well, there are a few areas where the purchasing, & owning of body armor does have some legal barriers that you need to be aware of.

Under federal law, a bulletproof vest is considered "body armor," which is regulated by statute, 18 U.S.C.A. Section 931. That law forbids anyone convicted of a violent felony to own or possess a vest, unless the person wearing the vest is an employee who is doing so in order to perform a lawful business activity and who has obtained prior written certification from the employer. A violation incurs a maximum of three years in prison. And using a vest during the commission of a federal crime of violence or a federal drug-trafficking crime will result in an enhanced sentence. (42 U.S.C. Section 3796ll-3(d)(1).)

The basic idea behind this law is to help identify severities of crime. For example, if someone attempted to rob a bank, but wasn’t wearing body armor, they still committed a crime and would receive a prison sentence. However, if they had been wearing body armor, now there is clear evidence to the extent of their premeditated plan to violently engage with law enforcement and attempt escape. Think of it this way, if you got into a fight with someone, and punched the individual, that is a crime. However, if you specifically planned to physically assault someone, & took the time, and effort to involve a pair of brass knuckles, the crime is more severe. While owning body armor is legal federally, some states have specific rules that need to be adhered to, so it’s important to know what the laws are in the state you reside in.

Some states increase the sentencing of crimes if body armor was used in the crime (or they may make the use of body armor in a crime a separate offense which would increase sentencing). For example, in California, judges may add one, two, or three years (Ca. Penal Code Section 12022.2). In some cases, states may elevate the level of the felony if body armor is involved. In Kentucky, use of body armor makes the defendant ineligible for parole. In a few states, mere possession (which is much broader than wearing the item) during a crime is a criminal act.

For individuals with a criminal history, it’s important to know what your state laws are in the possession of body armor. As mentioned, those convicted of a violent felony are prohibited from owning body armor, but some states extend this restriction to those convicted of violent misdemeanors. However, even for those who have never committed a crime, there are some state regulations that restrict boy armor in certain situations. Louisiana, for example, does not allow wearing body armor on school property, or during school functions. Connecticut prohibits purchasing body armor online, or over the phone. The purchase must be made in person.

Protecting yourself involves more than just which body armor you choose, but how you purchase it, so we encourage you to protect yourself by obeying the state laws where you reside. Below is a list of current body armor regulations by state. State laws are updated over time, so while we will update this periodically, please double check your state's most current regulations directly. In short, if you don’t break the law then you generally don’t have much to worry. However, some states do have specific requirements as listed below.

Jump to State

A labama	Alaska	Arizona	Arkansas	California
Colorado	Connecticut	Delaware	Florida	Georgia
Hawaii	Idaho	Illinois	Indiana	Iowa
Kansas	Kentucky	Louisiana	Maine	Maryland
Massachusetts	Michigan	Minnesota	Mississippi	Missouri
Montana	Nebraska	Nevada	New Hampshire	New Jersey
New Mexico	New York	North Carolina	North Dakota	Ohio
Oklahoma	Oregon	Pennsylvania	Rhode Island	South Carolina
South Dakota	Tennessee	Texas	Utah	Vermont
Virginia	Washington	West Virginia	Wisconsin	Wyoming

Alabama

Alabama does not have any additional laws for civilians to purchase body armor legally. In Alabama, any civilian can purchase and use a bulletproof vest legally, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or in person.

Alaska

In Alaska, civilians can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face by civilians legally.

Arizona

Like many states, Arizona has a law in place that makes it illegal to wear body armor during the commission of a crime. This does not affect body armor retailers.

Arkansas

In Arkansas, it is a Class A Misdemeanor to possess body armor if you have been convicted of murder, manslaughter, aggravated robbery, assault, or battery, and this law does not affect body armor retailers. In any other case, civilians can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

California

In September 2023, California passed the Assembly Bill 92, which makes it a Felony to purchase and use of body armor if you have already been convicted of violent felony. Civilians can still purchase and use a bulletproof vest, for now, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Colorado

In Colorado, anyone can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Connecticut

Of all the states, Connecticut has some of the toughest laws on body armor, prohibiting residents from buying or selling body armor except through a face-to-face sale. Online retailers cannot market and sell to Connecticut residents. In Connecticut, it is a class B misdemeanor, punishable by imprisonment for up to six months, a fine of up to $1,000, or both, to sell or deliver body armor unless the transferee meets in person with the transferor to accomplish the sale or delivery. The law exempts sales or deliveries to: authorized officials or sworn members of local police departments, the State Police, the Division of Criminal Justice, the Department of Correction, or the Board or Pardons or Parole; authorized municipal or Department of Administrative Services’ officials who buy body armor for the above agencies; authorized Judicial Branch officials who buy body armor for probation officers; members of the National Guard or armed forces (CGS § 53-341b).

Delaware

Delaware has a law in place that makes it illegal to wear body armor during the commission of a crime. This does not affect body armor retailers.

Florida

Florida has a law in place that makes it illegal to wear body armor during the commission of a crime, and, and this does not affect body armor retailers.

In Florida, any civilian can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless that adult has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Georgia

Georgia has a law in place that makes it illegal to wear body armor during the commission of a violent crime, or while trafficking drugs. This does not affect body armor retailers.

In Georgia, civilians can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless that adult has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Hawaii

In Hawaii, all civilians can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless they have been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Idaho

In Idaho, anyone can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Illinois

Illinois, like California, is attempting to pass legislation that will prohibit the manufacturing, selling, importing, purchasing, and possessing of armor plate, body armor, and military helmets in the state with a few exceptions. House Bill 3238 has been proposed and would take effect on January 1, 2024.

Until then, Illinois does not have any additional body armor laws pertaining to retailers. In Illinois, any civilian can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless that adult has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face. However, it is illegal for individuals to wear body armor while in possession of a dangerous weapon, other than a firearm, during the commission or attempted commission of any offense. Unlawful use of body armor is a Class A misdemeanor.

Indiana

In Indiana, any civilian can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless that adult has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or in person. A person who knowingly or intentionally uses body armor while committing a felony commits unlawful use of body armor, a Class D felony (up until July 2014, when a new law takes effect). The new law states that a person who knowingly or intentionally uses body armor while committing a felony commits unlawful use of body armor, a Level 6 felony. Again, this law effects criminals, not retailers.

Iowa

In Iowa, any civilian can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Kansas

In the city of Topeka, Kansas, it is illegal to possess, carry or wear a bulletproof vest during protests, parades, rallies, assemblies and demonstrations. This statute does not affect retailers. In Kansas, civilians can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or in person.

Kentucky

In Kentucky, any civilian can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless that adult has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Louisiana

Louisiana has a law in place that makes it illegal to wear body armor during the commission of a crime or on school property. This does not affect body armor retailers. In Louisiana, any adult can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless that adult has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face. It is illegal to wear body armor on the premises of a school.

Maine

In Maine, anyone can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless they have have been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Maryland

Maryland law mandates that all civilians with a prior conviction for a crime of violence, or a drug trafficking crime, are prohibited from using, possessing, or purchasing bulletproof body armor without a permit issued by the Secretary of the Maryland State Police. A civilian with a prior conviction for a crime of violence or a drug trafficking crime may file, for good cause shown, a petition with the Secretary for a permit to use, possess, and purchase bulletproof body armor.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts has a law in place that makes it a felony to wear body armor during the commission of a crime. In Massachusetts, anyone can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless they have been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Michigan

In Michigan, any civilian of age can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless that civilian has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face. In Michigan, an individual who commits or attempts to commit a crime that involves a violent act or a threat of a violent act against another person while wearing body armor is guilty of a felony, punishable by imprisonment for not more than 4 years, or a fine of not more than $2,000.00, or both. This is not applying to state officers and security officers performing their duties while on or off a scheduled work shift.

Minnesota

In Minnesota, anyone can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Mississippi

In Mississippi, any civilian can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless that adult has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Missouri

In Missouri, any civilian can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Montana

In Montana, anyone can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Nebraska

In Nebraska, anyone can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Nevada

In Nevada, anyone can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire has laws in place that make committing a crime while wearing a bulletproof vest a felony, but does not have laws in place that prohibit sales of bulletproof vests by retailers. A person is guilty of a class B felony if he commits or attempts to commit any felony while using or wearing body armor.

New Jersey

In New Jersey, any civilian can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless they have been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face. Additionally, in New Jersey, a civilian can be charged separately for wearing a bullet proof vest while carrying out criminal acts. The practical effect is more jail time and fines. Separate penalties have a wide range depending on the seriousness of the underlying crime.

New Mexico

In New Mexico, anyone can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

New York

Body armor cannot be purchased in the state of New York unless you work within a profession approved for ownership of body armor such as law enforcement.

North Carolina

North Carolina has a law in place that makes it illegal to wear body armor during the commission of a crime. This does not affect body armor retailers. In North Carolina, any civilian can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless that adult has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

North Dakota

In North Dakota, anyone can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Ohio

Ohio does not have any additional body armor laws. In Ohio, any civilian can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless that adult has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Oklahoma

Oklahoma has a law in place that makes it a felony to wear body armor during the commission of a crime. This does not affect body armor retailers. In Oklahoma, it is legal for civilians to purchase body armor, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Oregon

In Oregon, anyone can purchase and use a bulletproof vest, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania does not have any additional body armor laws. In Pennsylvania, it is legal for civilians to purchase body armor, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Rhode Island

In Rhode Island, it is legal for civilians to purchase body armor and bulletproof vests, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face. In 2012, Rhode Island’s General Assembly passed a bill that forbids anyone convicted of a felony that is a crime of violence from buying or possessing body armor. This does not affect retailers of bullet proof vests.

South Carolina

South Carolina has a law in place that makes it illegal to wear body armor during the commission of a crime. This does not affect body armor retailers. In South Carolina, it is legal for civilians to purchase body armor, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

South Dakota

In South Dakota, it is legal for civilians to purchase body armor, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Tennessee

Tennessee also has a law in place that makes it illegal to wear body armor during the commission of a crime. The unlawful wearing of a vest is a Class E felony. This does not affect body armor retailers. In Tennessee, any civilian can purchase and use a bulletproof vest legally, unless that adult has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Texas

In Texas, it is legal for civilians to purchase body armor, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Utah

In Utah, civilians can purchase body armor legally and use a bulletproof vest, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Vermont

Vermont does not have any additional body armor laws. In Vermont, it is legal for civilians to purchase body armor, unless that adult has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Virginia

Virginia has one additional body armor law, like many states: Any person who, while committing a crime of violence or a felony violation, has in his possession a firearm or knife and is wearing body armor designed to diminish the effect of the impact of a bullet or projectile, shall be guilty of a Class 4 felony. This law does not affect retailers. In Virginia, it is legal for civilians to purchase body armor, unless that adult has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Washington State

In Washington, civilians can purchase body armor legally, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

West Virginia

In West Virginia, it is illegal for a civilian to wear body armor while committing a felony, an element of which is force, the threat of force, physical harm to another or the use or presentment of a firearm or other deadly weapon. This does not affect body armor retailers. In West Virginia, any civilian can purchase and use a bulletproof vest legally, unless that adult has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face.

Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, any civilian can purchase and use a bulletproof vest legally, unless that adult has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be purchased online or face-to-face. In Wisconsin, regulations also state donning a bulletproof vest during a felony or attempted felony can lead to an additional felony conviction or added years to the final prison sentence. This law affects certain individuals who might purchase and wear bulletproof vests but does not affect retailers.

Wyoming

In Wyoming, any civilians can purchase and use a bulletproof vest legally, unless he or she has been convicted of a felony. Bulletproof vests and all other body armor can be legally purchased both online or face-to-face.

Does Body Armor Expire?

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 15:45:18 +0000

If the milk in your fridge was 2 months overdue, would you still drink it? What if it was chunky too? Not only would it be gross, but it could also make you sick.

The same principle goes for body armor, except if you don't follow the expiration date, you won't just get a tummy ache. Your ballistic armor could be less effective or worse...much worse.

Expiration dates are a necessity for ballistic protection gear. They are necessary because the protection provided by the body armor plates will degrade over time. Without body armor expiration dates, the equipment would be ineffective.

Expiration dates are not just a concern for ballistic protection gear like body armor and bulletproof vests. There are tons of things that expire regarding safety equipment that we rely on like fire extinguishers, safety helmets, and safety goggles. Virtually every piece of tactical gear has a lifespan of some sort.

Note: Different types of ballistic armor have different lengths before expiring.

Steel core armor plates usually have a shelf life of 20-years, whereas ceramic and composite usually have a shelf life of only 5-years. That is something to consider before purchasing.

What Affects Body Armor Expiration?

Elements such as extreme heat/cold, UV Light, humidity, drops, and even weight loss are all factors that play into the longevity of your bulletproof plates. Note: This applies primarily to ceramic and composite body armor, not steel core body armor.

Store your body armor plates away from the elements. Leaving your body armor in your car all year-round can eventually begin to degrade body armor plates that contain ceramic, polyethylene or aramid fibers. Naturally, this can be more dependent upon the weather in your geographic location.

For maximum longevity, store your body armor plates in a “cool and dry” place when possible. However, in some instances this might not be practical. If you specifically intend on keeping a body armor kit in your car, have a plan for replacement when the armor approaches the end of its lifespan.

Depending on the type of body armor plates you have, even dropping them can cause internal damage. Ceramic plates are strong when stopping ballistic rounds, but some plates have a weakness when dropped.

Where Can I Find The Expiration Date?

You can find the manufacturers listed expiration date along with other important details on the back of your body armor plate. On the back of a Spartan Armor Systems® armor plate, you can find in order:

Threat (NIJ STD 0101.06):
Size:
Serial Number:
Lot Number:
Location of Manufacture:
Date of Manufacture:
Date of Issue:
Model:
Manufacturers Warranty:
Shelf Life:

Be sure to check the "Date of Manufacture" and "Shelf Life" once you recieve your armor, so you know can set yourself a future reminder well before they expire.

Check Your Body Armor Regularly

Continue to take the time to look thoroughly at your body armor plates, plate carrier, and any other gear on your kit. Look for signs of damage or any visual wear that could lead to damaged equipment. If you have any questions about your gear, please contact our customer service, they would love to help you make sure your gear is top of the line, just like when you purchased it.

Can You Wear Expired Body Armor?

Think back to the expired milk jug. Can you drink that chunky stuff? Yes, you can. Could it potentially lead to illness? Yes, it can.

The same again applies to your body armor. Can expired body armor plates lead to injury or even death? Yes, it can. Not that the day after it expires, it’s immediately ineffective, but again, you should know how effective your body armor plates are because you are checking them regularly and taking care of them by storing them where they should be.

If you choose to wear expired body armor, you are putting yourself at risk with potentially ineffective gear. When you go to replace that gear, don’t forget that Spartan Armor Systems® is here with the gear you need to keep you safe.

If you have questions, our team is always here to help!

Get in Touch:

Phone: Give us a Call/Text at (520) 396-3335
Email: info@spartanarmorsystems.com

The Advantages of Equipping Trauma Pads

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 15:41:02 +0000

Purpose

Spartan Armor Systems® non-ballistic trauma pads are inserts worn behind body armor plates. Also known as blunt force trauma pads, the slim and extremely light layer of padding dissipates the impact energy sustained on your armor, reducing the transmitted force to the body. By absorbing and dispersing impact energy, trauma pads help minimize severe bruising to skin and muscle, as well as potential damage to rib bones.

This transfer of energy can be felt regardless of the body armor system you choose, so be sure to wear trauma pads in conjunction with your personal protection body armor plates/panels.

Trauma pads should never be used on their own without ballistic protection.

Effectiveness

Body armor can save your life, but that doesn’t mean being shot will feel very good. Trauma pads as an essential layer of protection, helping to prevent internal injuries and allowing you to stay sharp and focused when it matters most. Beyond protection, they enhance the fit and stability, keeping your body armor plates securely positioned in your plate carrier and eliminating unwanted movement or “wiggle” room. This added comfort and stability can make a critical difference in maintaining performance and confidence during high-pressure situations, whether on the battlefield or in any demanding environment.

Material

Spartan Armor Systems® trauma pads utilize extremely light microcellular urethane padding and wrapped with durable nylon ripstop fabric, which is the same tough material the U.S. Battle Dress Uniform (BDU) is made from.

Shape/Sizes

Spartan Armor Systems® offers trauma pads in a variety of shapes and sizes to suit your specific needs.

Available Shapes:

Shooter’s Cut
High Mobility/Swimmer’s Cut
(Only available in 10" x 12")

Main Armor Pad Sizes:

8” x 10”
10” x 12”
11” x 14”
(Available individually or as a set of two.)

Side Armor Pad Sizes:

6” x 6”
6” x 8”
(Sold only as a set of two side panels.)

Regardless of the shape or size, all Spartan Armor Systems® trauma pads maintain a consistent thickness of 0.25” (6.35 mm) for uniform comfort and protection.

Usage

The Spartan Armor Systems® trauma pad is compatible with any of our body armor plates, including RF3 – Level IV, RF2 Level III+, RF1 Level III, HG2 – Level IIIA plates. To ensure proper protection and comfort, it is important to select the trauma pad shape and size that with best match your body armor plates/panels.

Expiration

Although trauma pads do not have a specific expiration date, the materials can deteriorate over time. It’s recommended to inspect them regularly, and if you notice any signs of wear, damage, or degradation, the pads should be replaced.

If you have questions, our team is always here to help!

Get in Touch:

Phone: Give us a Call/Text at (520) 396-3335
Email: info@spartanarmorsystems.com

Level IV Comparison

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 15:46:14 +0000

Level IV Ceramic Body Armor Chart Comparison: Hercules Xtreme & Hercules

	Hercules Xtreme	Hercules
Protection Level	Stops up to .30-06 M2AP	Stops up to .30-06 M2AP
Material	Boron Carbide Ceramic & UHMWPE	Aluminum Oxide Ceramic & UHMWPE
Size	9.5″ × 12.5″ MED ESAPI	10″ × 12″
Weight	6.1 lbs (2.77 kg)	6.25 lbs (2.83 kg)
Thickness	1.2″ (30.5 mm)	1.1″ (27.94 mm)
Design	Stand Alone Plate	Stand Alone Plate

In this article we'll be taking a close look at our Hercules Xtreme Level IV Multi-Hit Ceramic Body Armor and Hercules Level IV Ceramic Body Armor.

At first glance, the two plates appear almost identical. Both have been rigorously tested by an independent NIJ-accredited laboratory and meet the NIJ 0101.06 standard—meaning they are capable of stopping .30-06 M2AP armor-piercing rounds. They also share several key features, including edge-to-edge protection and a multi-curve design for enhanced comfort.

However, when you look more closely, the differences between the Hercules Xtreme and the Hercules begin to stand out. Quite simply, the Hercules Xtreme represents our top-of-the-line Level IV body armor plate, though each option has its own distinct advantages. In the sections that follow, we’ll take a deeper dive into the benefits of both plates to help you understand which one best fits your needs.

Why are Hercules Xtreme Level IV plates more expensive than the Hercules?
Both are Level IV plates, so why pay more for the Hercules Xtreme?

The short answer: the Hercules Xtreme is built with a much stronger type of ceramic. Unlike the Hercules, the Hercules Xtreme Level IV features a military-grade strike face made of boron carbide—one of the most impact-resistant materials known to man.

Now, terms like “military grade” and “MIL-SPEC” get tossed around often. For those of us who have served, our view of “MIL-SPEC” is a little different from how civilians might perceive it. Veterans often joke that when something is “MIL-SPEC”, it usually means:

“Great, it’ll only work half the time.”

“Here’s something many soldiers already used before, and it shows.”

That said, there’s bad MIL-SPEC and there’s good MIL-SPEC. When we say the Hercules Xtreme plates achieve military-grade protection, we refer to the same modern, top-tier body armor used to protect today’s soldiers.

It wasn’t long ago that our servicemen and women weren’t issued the level of ballistic protection they truly deserved. That changed with the introduction of hard ceramics like aluminum oxide (good) and boron carbide (best) into Level IV armor. The Hercules Xtreme is designed to withstand severe ballistic punishment specifically because of its boron carbide strike face.

Naturally, boron carbide is more expensive than standard aluminum oxide, which is why the Hercules Xtreme carries a higher price tag than the Hercules. However, because Spartan Armor Systems manufactures ceramic body armor in-house at our Tucson, AZ facility, we’re able to offer the highest quality boron carbide plates in the industry.

More Benefits of the Hercules X Level IV Body Armor Plate

In addition to its ability to defeat high-velocity armor-piercing rounds, boron carbide is remarkably lightweight. The Hercules Xtreme weighs just 6.1 lbs per plate, compared to the Hercules at 6.9 lbs per plate.

The Hercules Xtreme is designed to deliver maximum protection for vital organs with its 9.5" x 12.5" medium ESAPI multi-curve shooter’s cut profile. This highly compatible sizing allows operators to pair it with a wide range of plate carriers, though we recommend the U.S.A. made Leonidas Legend Plate Carrier for the best fit and performance.

Both the Hercules Xtreme and Hercules plates feature a ceramic strike face engineered to shatter and fragment incoming rounds. Once the bullet is broken down, a UHMWPE (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene) backer captures the remaining fragments. Importantly, both models provide true edge-to-edge protection.

However, because boron carbide is significantly harder than standard ceramic materials, the Hercules Xtreme does a superior job of breaking up rounds. This reduces the size and energy of the fragments, leading to less backface deformation—which in turn helps to minimize blunt force trauma.

Below is a video overview of the Hercules X Level IV Ceramic Body Armor Plate.

Not So Fast-Hercules Is No Slouch

Stopping an armor-piercing .30-06 M2AP round is no small feat. Yet, the Hercules Level IV ceramic body armor plate does exactly that—while still offering a level of comfort not typically found in most other body armor plates (yes, even the Hercules Xtreme included).

It’s also worth noting that not everyone needs the maximum level of protection provided by the Hercules Xtreme. That’s exactly why our Hercules Level IV plates exist: they strike the perfect balance between powerful protection against high-caliber threats and a more accessible price point. The Hercules plate also shines when it comes to comfort and ergonomics. Featuring our Advanced Compound Curve, it conforms to the body in ways rarely seen in ceramic armor. The plate’s aggressive taper in the shoulder area makes it a hybrid between the shooter’s cut and swimmer’s cut. This unique design provides operators with greater mobility—making it easier to shoulder a rifle or draw a pistol without disrupting their natural shooting stance.

Final Thoughts

Both the Hercules Xtreme and the Hercules are excellent choices for Level IV protection. When it comes time to purchase, the best choice depends on your specific needs and priorities. Take the time to weigh the pros and cons of each plate to ensure you select the body armor that’s right for your mission or situation.

If you have questions, our team is always here to help!

Get in Touch:

Phone: Give us a Call/Text at (520) 396-3335
Email: info@spartanarmorsystems.com

The Advantages of Steel Targets For Firearms Training

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 14:55:39 +0000

What can a steel target bring to the table in firearms training?

Steel targets change the game in firearms training by turning every shot into instant feedback. Where paper targets tell you where a round landed after you walk downrange, steel targets tell you right away whether you hit — and they do it in a way that supports faster, more realistic, and more iterative training.

Paper vs. Steel — when each wins

Paper targets still have an important place in training. Their big advantages are precision and versatility: you can see exact shot placement and use them at any distance — including extreme close-quarters drills — to build a tight zero and assess group size. But paper has a key limitation for dynamic training: no immediate confirmation. That means frequent walk-ups to check hits, and no easy way to tell the order of shots during multi-round strings.

Steel targets trade a little of that precision for instantaneous feedback. That change unlocks training styles that are faster, more reactive, and closer to real-world timelines.

Major advantages of steel targets

Immediate hit confirmation. The audible clack and visible movement (or reaction) tell the shooter which rounds were effective without leaving the firing line. That lets instructors and shooters correct stance, trigger control, and sight alignment on the fly.
Better pacing for scenario work. Because you can see and hear results immediately, you can run timed strings, failure drills, and stress shoots far more efficiently than with paper.
Shot sequencing awareness. Reactive steel that drops, swings, or rings can provide information about the order of hits — something paper can’t show without video instrumentation.
Durability and reusability. High-quality steel targets can withstand thousands of rounds, reducing per-shot consumable costs compared to paper.
Variety of reaction profiles. From full-size silhouettes to smaller precision-reactive plates, modern steel targets (for example, Spartan Armor Systems Triple Tap and Critical Shot) let you mix target sizes and reaction types to build specific skills.

Closing the gap on precision

If you need the pinpoint feedback of paper but want the pace of steel, use both. Start with paper for zeroing and grouping, then move to steel for dynamic, high-tempo work. Also consider smaller reactive steel plates or specialized reactive designs that simulate the precision demand of an A-zone while still giving the rapid feedback steel is known for.

Choosing targets — practical considerations

Quick setup & modularity. Targets that assemble and disassemble rapidly maximize range time. Modular bases and systems (like the Spartan Armor Systems Multi-Purpose Base) make it easy to swap targets and reconfigure a drill.
Material and construction quality. Invest in targets built from hardened steel and robust mounts. Avoid frames that rely on soft or short-lived materials (cheap wood connectors, thin hardware) — they’re the weakest link.
Size & silhouette options. Mix full-size silhouettes with smaller reactive plates to train both shot placement and target discrimination.

Safety first — essential reminders

Steel targets require stricter safety practices than paper targets:

Eye and hearing protection are mandatory. Fragmentation and spall are real risks; protective eyewear and hearing protection at all times are non-negotiable.
Follow minimum engagement distances. Unlike paper, steel targets require a minimum safe distance that depends on caliber, ammunition type, and the target design. Always follow the manufacturer’s minimum-distance guidance and the range’s rules.
Avoid armor-piercing and steel-core ammo on soft-plate steel. Hard penetrators increase spalling, produce more sparks (a fire risk in dry environments), and cause accelerated target wear — pitting and cratering that shorten product life. Use ammo the target is rated for.
Inspect targets regularly. Check mounting hardware, plate condition, and stands for signs of pitting, cracks, or deformation. Replace or repair compromised parts before continuing use.

Longevity — ammunition matters

Using inappropriate ammunition (steel-core or certain armor-piercing rounds) accelerates wear and increases safety risks. Those rounds can create deeper divots in the face of the target and generate more spall — both of which shorten target life and can create unsafe fragments. Proper ammunition selection and adherence to manufacturer guidance extend the life of your steel and keep training safe.

Bottom line

Steel targets bring immediate, loud, and useful feedback to practical firearms training. They’re ideal for fast-paced drills, scenario work, and building real-world shooting tempo. Pair steel with paper where precision zeroing or group analysis is required, invest in quality hardware, follow safety/distance guidance, and choose ammunition that’s compatible with your targets. Do that and steel targets will accelerate skill development while saving time (and often money) at the range.

If you have questions, our team is always here to help!

Get in Touch:

Phone: Give us a Call/Text at (520) 396-3335
Email: info@spartanarmorsystems.com

Body Armor Protection Levels Simplified

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 14:16:34 +0000

You don’t have to be a ballistics expert to have a good understanding of body armor protection levels and the rounds they defeat. The key is to understand why & how each protection level is classified.

In this article, we’re going to simplify the protection levels so that anyone can quickly determine the right body armor for their situation based on common ammunition rounds.

Note that there are hundreds of different ammo cartridges on the market so we’re not going to get into the exotic rounds that you’re not likely to ever encounter.

We’re going to focus on ammo cartridges in this article primarily, if you’d like more information on NIJ protection level standards then please see this article.

Handgun Protection – Level IIIA

Level IIIA protection is all about protection against handgun rounds. Under NIJ 0101.06 requirements, level IIIA armor is tested against .357 SIG and .44 MAG.

However, level IIIA body armor is capable of stopping most handgun rounds on the market.

Soft armor such as our IIIA Flex Fused Core™ panels and IIIA hard armor such as our Armis Quad Curve plates fall under this category. Whether the armor is hard or soft, the key to remember is that level IIIA indicates handgun protection. It’s important to note that handguns are the predominant firearm used in murders based on FBI crime stats.

High concealable, level IIIA body armor is just a fraction of the weight of rifle-rated body armor. Better yet, our level IIIA soft body armor panels are very affordable which makes them a realistic option for many concerned citizens.

Basic Rifle Protection – Level III

Level III body armor is where the category gets much more specific. Level III can defeat handgun rounds, but is specifically designed to stop larger caliber rifle rounds such as 7.62x51 (M80 BALL also known commonly as .308).

Can level III body armor stop rounds from an AR15 rifle? The answer depends on the round. Our Spartan™ Omega™ AR500 Steel Armor and Elaphros Lightweight level III plates have both been tested against M193 rounds (commonly referred to as .223 or 5.56).

Not all AR15 rounds are the same. The M193 is a “softer” round meaning that it’s more likely to fragment when it hits and makes contact. This makes it easier to stop an M193 round with body armor than a round such as M855 which is designed to penetrate hard materials.

Advanced Rifle Protection - Level III+

Level III+ is a special designation that the body armor industry created to fill a gap between level III body armor and level IV body armor.

As we mentioned previously, M855 is a “penetrator” round designed to penetrate hard surfaces. This particular round is commonly referred to as a “green tip” based on the green-painted tip of the bullet.

The M855 round has an inner steel core that gives this bullet its penetration capabilities. It’s important to note that M855 rounds are NOT the same as armor-piercing rounds. While they are designed to penetrate hard materials, they don’t have the same penetration power as armor-piercing rounds.

Armor Piercing Rifle Protection – Level IV

While it’s not the most common threat, armor-piercing bullets are a reality.

Level IV body armor is designed to stop .30-06 M2AP armor-piercing rounds. This is a large caliber round with plenty of powder behind it.

Level IV body armor is typically sought after by people more likely to encounter extreme danger such as Law Enforcement, Military, or Security Contractors. While level IV body armor is only required to defeat one armor-piercing round by NIJ 0101.06 standards, our level IV body armor is capable of defeating multiple rounds.

Whether you’re looking for concealable body armor or a full tactical setup, having a good understanding of the body armor protection levels is an important first step.

Once you understand the level of protection that each level affords, it becomes much easier to identify the best body armor for your situation. Remember these basic rules of body armor protection levels:

Level IIIA protects against handguns
Level III protects against most rifle rounds
Level III+ provides additional protection against rifle rounds, M855 in particular
Level IV is designed to stop armor-piercing rounds

Have questions or need additional help finding the body armor or tactical gear that’s right for you?

Get in Touch:

Phone: Give us a Call/Text at (520) 396-3335
Email: info@spartanarmorsystems.com

Church Security - 3 Things to Consider

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 14:50:29 +0000

Church safety and security are not “optional” anymore — they are a stewardship responsibility. In recent years attacks on houses of worship and active-shooter incidents at public gathering places have been prominent in national data and in federal guidance, and that means churches should take a common-sense, faith-forward approach to preparedness. Use this short guide to update your Emergency Action Plan (EAP), train your people, and evaluate practical gear and medical readiness.

How Frequently Do Church Shootings Occur? - Lifeway Research

1) Emergency Action Plan (EAP)

Why update your EAP now
While active-shooter incidents fluctuate year to year, federal authorities and infrastructure agencies treat attacks on places of worship as a real risk and recommend planning and preparedness. Follow their guidance when you write your plan.

Read the FBI’s “Active Shooter Attack Prevention and Preparedness (ASAPP)” guide

What your EAP should cover (beyond “active shooters”)

Fire, severe weather, structural failure, medical emergencies, suspicious packages, and a lost/left child.
All occupant movements: normal services, children’s ministry, evening groups, funerals/weddings (these events have different crowd dynamics).
Accessibility: what to do if elevators fail, how to evacuate mobility-impaired congregants, who assists them.
Communication: primary/backup ways to notify staff and the congregation, who calls 911 and who holds the doors.

Templates & national guidance to use
Start with FEMA and CISA resources and adapt them to your building and congregation — they provide templates and practical checklists for houses of worship.

Make it local & practiced

Map routes and alternatives for every room (include childcare rooms, basements, fellowship halls).
Post simplified escape routes and place a one-page “what to do” for volunteers and new members.
Run table-top exercises with leadership, then do at least one live drill per year (or more often for high-attendance ministries).

Quick member-facing steps

Post exit maps in high-traffic areas.
Create a short “member version” of the EAP (what to do if you hear an alarm, see suspicious activity, etc.).
Encourage members to save local emergency contacts in their phones and know congregation reporting paths.

2) Personnel — roles, training, and relationships

Roles: clarity prevents confusion
Assign clear roles (exits, first aid, greeters, crowd flow, communications, and liaison to 911). Make sure every role has at least one trained backup and that volunteers understand boundaries (what they will and will not do). Clear accountability reduces mistakes during a crisis.

Training: practical, frequent, and appropriate

Train on options-based responses (evacuation, shelter/barricade, or, as last resort, disrupt) and choose the approach that fits your congregation and laws.
Include basic medical response training and equip several team members with bleeding-control kits.
For advanced hands-on or armed-response training, consult legal counsel and local law enforcement before proceeding.

Working with law enforcement

Build a relationship with your local police department: invite them to tour your property, review your EAP, and participate in at least one drill every year. Law enforcement can advise about local risks and response protocols and often will help with free training or assessments.

Armed volunteers / security teams

If your church is considering armed volunteers, consult attorneys and your insurance carrier; check state/local laws and formal policies (use of force, storage, background checks). Many churches choose uniformed off-duty officers or professional security rather than arming volunteers because of liability and training burdens.

3) Gear

Decide with your security team which items meet your needs — radios or a phone plan for instant communication, clearly located medical kits, camera coverage for entrances, and whatever else fits your building and budget.

Work with your security team to choose practical, proportionate equipment that supports your plan. Start with reliable communications (two-way radios or a dedicated phone tree), clearly marked medical/bleeding-control kits and an AED, and basic monitoring for main entrances. Ask: who carries the radio, where the med kit is stored, and how volunteers access cameras or alarms — small details save time in a crisis.

We highly recommend looking into concealable body armor.

Spartan Armor Systems® provides many options for concealable body armor. Our top picks would be either our Flex Fused Core® Level IIIA | Spartan DL Concealment Package or Flex Fused Core® Level IIIA | Executive Protection Package

We recommend stocking enough for your security team to wear on Sundays, or during any other events at your church. Keep them hung up with the choir robes, and you can rotate them when your team members rotate.

If you are looking for something that has more stopping power with higher protection levels, it won’t necessarily be as concealable, but check out those options here: Level III Body Armor Packages | Level III+ Body Armor Packages | Level IV Body Armor Packages

Get in Touch:

Phone: Give us a Call/Text at (520) 396-3335
Email: info@spartanarmorsystems.com

NIJ Certification vs "Meets NIJ Standards"

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 13:12:26 +0000

What Does NIJ Certification Really Mean for Body Armor?

At Spartan Armor Systems™, we proudly offer several NIJ-certified body armor products—but what does “NIJ certified” actually mean? More importantly, why should it matter to you as the end user?

In this article, we’ll break down the NIJ certification process, highlight the differences between NIJ certification and “meets NIJ standards” claims, and explain why choosing certified armor provides the highest level of assurance for your personal protection.

Why NIJ Certification Matters

The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) establishes performance standards for ballistic resistance. NIJ certification means that a product has gone through the Compliance Testing Program (CTP)—an intensive, independent evaluation carried out in NIJ-approved laboratories.

Certification is more than just a one-time test. It includes environmental conditioning, ballistic testing, backface deformation measurements, and ongoing follow-up inspections (FIT) to ensure consistent manufacturing quality over time.

Some manufacturers claim their armor “meets NIJ standards” after running in-house or independent lab tests. While these may demonstrate basic performance, they are not equivalent to official NIJ certification. Only NIJ-certified products are listed on the NIJ Compliant Products List (CPL)—the gold standard for agencies and individuals who rely on body armor.

The Difference Between “NIJ Certified” and “Meets NIJ Standards”

NIJ Certified: Tested through the NIJ Compliance Testing Program, in accredited labs, under controlled conditions. Certified products are listed on NIJ’s official CPL and subject to ongoing inspections.
Meets NIJ Standards: Indicates the armor was tested to NIJ-like criteria (either in-house or by a third-party lab), but not through the official CTP. Results may vary and are not recognized as certification.

At Spartan Armor Systems™, we take the extra step of testing all our armor—even when not submitted for certification—through independent NIJ-approved labs. This ensures that every piece of armor we produce is backed by real science, not backyard demonstrations.

The NIJ Standard: 0101.06 vs. 0101.07

For many years, NIJ Standard 0101.06 (2008) defined the threat levels most people are familiar with:

Level IIA: 9mm & .40 S&W handguns
Level II: 9mm & .357 Magnum handguns
Level IIIA: .357 SIG & .44 Magnum handguns
Level III: 7.62x51mm FMJ rifle rounds
Level IV: .30 caliber armor-piercing rifle rounds

But in late 2023, NIJ released Standard 0101.07 along with NIJ Standard 0123.00, introducing updated testing protocols and a new naming system:

HG1 / HG2 → handgun threats
RF1 / RF2 / RF3 → rifle threats (RF3 is the highest, including AP rounds)

We’re currently in a transition period:

Products certified under 0101.06 remain valid and listed for several years.
New certifications are now processed under 0101.07/0123.00.

This means you may see both sets of classifications in use until the industry fully transitions.

Inside the Certification Process

NIJ certification is about much more than “shooting a plate.” The process is designed to simulate real-world wear, stress, and ballistic threats:

Environmental Conditioning

Hard armor: Exposed to high heat, cold, humidity, drops, and water immersion (for ceramics) before ballistic testing.
Soft armor: Subjected to tumbling and flexing to replicate years of movement and wear.

Ballistic Testing

V0 testing: Armor must stop a specified number of rounds at required velocities with zero penetrations.
Backface Deformation (BFD): Measured to ensure blunt force trauma stays below safe thresholds (historically ≤ 44mm).
V50 testing: Determines the velocity at which 50% of rounds penetrate—establishing the armor’s failure threshold.

Follow-Up Inspections

Even after passing, manufacturers must maintain certification through ongoing audits and random sample testing to confirm production consistency.

Why This Matters for You

Buying armor that is truly NIJ certified gives you confidence that:

It has been tested in accredited labs, under rigorous conditions.
Performance claims have been independently verified—not just stated by the manufacturer.
Ongoing inspections ensure that every batch meets the same standard, not just the test samples.

In contrast, uncertified armor (even if it “meets NIJ standards”) lacks this level of oversight and consistency. While it may perform well in certain tests, there is no guarantee of standardized performance.

The NIJ Mark of Certification

Once ballistic testing is successfully completed, and the NIJ has thoroughly reviewed the armor’s materials, design, and manufacturing configuration, the product may be granted official NIJ Certification. This certification is valid for five years and is the only circumstance under which an armor system is authorized to display the NIJ certification mark on its label.

That small mark carries significant weight—it tells you the armor has met the highest standards of ballistic resistance and quality assurance, giving you confidence in its proven reliability.

Get in Touch:

Phone: Give us a Call/Text at (520) 396-3335
Email: info@spartanarmorsystems.com