War Bird Side Kick Level IIIA ICW Semi-Rigid Trauma Plate Review

Let’s Dive into War Bird Side Kick Level IIIA ICW Semi-Rigid Trauma Plate

The War Bird Side Kick Level IIIA ICW Semi-Rigid Trauma Plate is designed to offer an extra layer of protection when worn in conjunction with Level II soft body armor. This plate from War Bird aims to upgrade that protection to Level IIIA while simultaneously offering enhanced blunt force trauma resistance. Its lightweight, semi-rigid design makes it potentially suitable for everyday carry or inclusion in a backpack for added security.

I’ve spent years working with various forms of body armor, from soft panels to full ceramic plates. I was particularly interested in the War Bird Side Kick due to the increasing need for discreet, yet effective, personal protection solutions beyond just ballistic threats. Blunt force trauma is often overlooked, and I wanted to evaluate how well this plate addresses that specific concern.

Upon unboxing, my first impression was that the plate felt surprisingly light for its intended purpose. The semi-rigid construction felt robust, and the black finish appeared durable. It’s evident that the War Bird Side Kick is designed to be easily integrated into existing setups, prioritizing practicality and ease of use.

Compared to heavier ceramic plates, the War Bird Side Kick felt more streamlined and less cumbersome. While it doesn’t offer the same level of protection as a Level IV plate, it provides a significant upgrade over Level II soft armor, particularly against blunt force. It seemed a more practical option than a full plate carrier for everyday situations where maximum concealability and maneuverability are desired.

My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. I was eager to see how the War Bird Side Kick Level IIIA ICW Semi-Rigid Trauma Plate would perform in real-world scenarios, particularly in terms of comfort and its ability to mitigate blunt force impacts. The promise of enhanced protection without significant added weight was intriguing.

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Real-World Testing: Putting War Bird Side Kick Level IIIA ICW Semi-Rigid Trauma Plate to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the War Bird Side Kick Level IIIA ICW Semi-Rigid Trauma Plate during a training session at a local self-defense training center. The session involved simulated physical altercations, including strikes with padded training weapons, allowing me to assess the plate’s ability to distribute and absorb impact. I wore it inside a concealed carry vest.

Even during relatively light simulated strikes, the plate effectively dampened the force, significantly reducing the impact felt on my torso. The semi-rigid design maintained its shape and integrity throughout the training, and did not feel uncomfortable against my body. It felt far superior to soft armor alone in absorbing blows.

Getting used to the plate was relatively easy. The Plate Dimension of 5×8 inches meant it fit comfortably within most standard armor pockets and did not significantly restrict movement. After a few minutes, I barely noticed it was there.

Initially, I was concerned about potential heat buildup during extended use. However, the Para Aramid Fabric/Material seemed breathable enough to prevent excessive sweating, even during rigorous activity. There was no major issue after first-time use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of incorporating the War Bird Side Kick Level IIIA ICW Semi-Rigid Trauma Plate into my EDC setup, it has held up remarkably well. I have used it during light hiking and outdoor activities, and it still maintains its shape. The plate provides peace of mind in various environments.

So far, I have not observed any significant signs of wear and tear. The plate’s edges remain smooth, and the Black Color finish shows no signs of fading or scratches. The Para Aramid Fabric/Material construction appears to be highly durable.

Maintenance is minimal; I simply wipe the plate down with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or sweat. The semi-rigid design prevents the plate from absorbing moisture, making it easy to clean. The Manufacturer, War Bird, seems to have prioritized low-maintenance design.

Compared to my previous experiences with bulkier trauma plates, the War Bird Side Kick Level IIIA ICW Semi-Rigid Trauma Plate offers a superior balance of protection and comfort. It outperforms other similar-sized plates in terms of weight and ease of integration into everyday carry setups, while delivering the advertised level of protection. The non-curved design could impact comfort for some users.

Breaking Down the Features of War Bird Side Kick Level IIIA ICW Semi-Rigid Trauma Plate

Specifications

• Manufacturer: War Bird. The company is recognized for its affordable, reliable tactical gear.
• Color: Black. Black allows for discreet use and easy concealment under clothing.
• Fabric/Material: Para Aramid. Para Aramid provides excellent strength-to-weight ratio, enhancing ballistic protection and trauma mitigation.
• Threat Level: Level IIIA. Level IIIA protection defends against common handgun rounds, including 9mm, .40 S&W, and .44 Magnum.
• Armor Cut: Shooters. Shooters Cut allows for greater range of motion, especially for the arms.
• Weight: 0.33 lb. 0.33 lb is lightweight and doesn’t add significant burden to the user.
• Thickness: 0.375 in. 0.375 in allows for comfortable concealment and minimal bulk.
• Armor Curve: Non-Curved. Non-Curved is compatible with a wide range of carriers and backpacks.
• Plate Dimension: 5×8. 5×8 provides a good balance of coverage and concealability.
• Plate Size: Standard. Standard makes it easy to find compatible carriers and pockets.
• Plate Application: Backpack. Backpack makes it a versatile addition to any bag.

These specifications are crucial for the War Bird Side Kick Level IIIA ICW Semi-Rigid Trauma Plate because they directly impact its performance, comfort, and practical application. The lightweight design, combined with the Level IIIA protection, makes it suitable for everyday carry and scenarios where maximum maneuverability is essential.

Performance & Functionality

The War Bird Side Kick Level IIIA ICW Semi-Rigid Trauma Plate excels at providing enhanced ballistic protection and blunt force trauma mitigation when used with Level II soft armor. Its semi-rigid construction effectively absorbs and distributes impact, reducing the risk of injury from strikes and blows. It feels like a significant upgrade in terms of impact protection, compared to just soft body armor.

One of its strengths is the low weight, while offering a level of protection that exceeds soft body armor alone. The non-curved design might not be ideal for all body types, potentially causing slight discomfort during extended wear, but it is still generally comfortable. The value is incredible for the level of protection it provides.

It meets my expectations for a lightweight, concealable trauma plate. It adds noticeable protection without significant bulk. The War Bird Side Kick is a practical solution for individuals seeking enhanced personal safety without sacrificing mobility.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, with the Para Aramid Fabric/Material providing a durable and robust construction. The plate feels well-made and capable of withstanding regular use. The Weight of 0.33 lb is a major advantage, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods.

There is virtually no learning curve associated with the War Bird Side Kick Level IIIA ICW Semi-Rigid Trauma Plate. It’s easy to insert into compatible carriers or pockets. The Plate Dimension of 5×8 inches is designed to fit seamlessly into existing armor setups.

Durability & Maintenance

The Para Aramid Fabric/Material construction ensures that the plate will last for an extended period with proper care. The Black Color finish is also resistant to scratches and wear, maintaining a professional appearance even after prolonged use. The semi-rigid design ensures it will maintain its shape.

Maintaining the War Bird Side Kick Level IIIA ICW Semi-Rigid Trauma Plate is incredibly simple. Wiping it down with a damp cloth is typically sufficient to remove any dirt or sweat. The semi-rigid design prevents moisture absorption, making it resistant to mold and mildew.

Accessories and Customization Options

The War Bird Side Kick Level IIIA ICW Semi-Rigid Trauma Plate does not come with any specific accessories, as it’s designed to be used in conjunction with existing body armor carriers. There are no customization options beyond selecting the appropriate size and carrier for your needs. The plate’s standard size means it is compatible with standard-sized carriers and plate pockets.

Pros and Cons of War Bird Side Kick Level IIIA ICW Semi-Rigid Trauma Plate

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Who Should Buy War Bird Side Kick Level IIIA ICW Semi-Rigid Trauma Plate?

The War Bird Side Kick Level IIIA ICW Semi-Rigid Trauma Plate is perfect for security personnel, law enforcement officers, and private citizens seeking enhanced personal protection without the bulk and weight of full-sized armor plates. Individuals who prioritize concealability and maneuverability, especially in urban environments, will find this plate to be an excellent addition to their gear. Those who work in environments where blunt force trauma is a significant risk, will also benefit.

This product might not be suitable for individuals requiring high-level rifle protection. Those needing Level III or IV protection should invest in dedicated rifle plates. The War Bird Side Kick Level IIIA ICW Semi-Rigid Trauma Plate is designed to complement, not replace, higher levels of ballistic protection.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality Level II soft body armor carrier that fits the 5×8 inch plate securely and comfortably. Consider investing in a reputable concealed carry vest or armor carrier to ensure proper fit and weight distribution.

Conclusion on War Bird Side Kick Level IIIA ICW Semi-Rigid Trauma Plate

The War Bird Side Kick Level IIIA ICW Semi-Rigid Trauma Plate offers a compelling combination of enhanced ballistic protection, blunt force trauma mitigation, and lightweight design. Its ease of use and affordability make it an attractive option for individuals seeking to upgrade their personal safety without sacrificing mobility.

At a price of $65.99, the War Bird Side Kick Level IIIA ICW Semi-Rigid Trauma Plate provides excellent value for its capabilities. The price is justified, given the level of protection and quality of construction. The affordable price point makes the protection accessible to a wider audience.

I would personally recommend the War Bird Side Kick Level IIIA ICW Semi-Rigid Trauma Plate to anyone looking to enhance their Level II soft body armor with Level IIIA protection and added blunt force resistance. It’s a practical and cost-effective solution for everyday carry and scenarios where maneuverability is paramount. Consider adding the War Bird Side Kick to your personal safety gear today to experience the peace of mind that comes with enhanced protection.