First Impressions of Custom Armor Group RSTP Level III+ ICW Multi Curve Rifle Armor Plate
In a world demanding enhanced personal protection, the Custom Armor Group RSTP Level III+ ICW Multi Curve Rifle Armor Plate enters the arena. Marketed as a lightweight, high-performing rifle special threat plate, it promises multi-hit capability when used in conjunction with Level IIIA soft armor. My interest piqued as I searched for a reliable, yet not overly burdensome, armor solution for potential active shooter scenarios during volunteer security work.
I’ve been searching for a plate that balances protection with maneuverability. Most plates I’ve encountered in the past felt like wearing a brick. The Custom Armor Group offering appealed to me because of its promise of being lightweight and multi-curve for better comfort.
Upon receiving the plate, the first thing I noticed was the surprisingly low weight. The multi-curve design seemed well-executed, conforming nicely to the body’s contours even before pairing it with soft armor. Build quality appears solid, although a more rigorous examination will determine the actual durability.
Compared to heavier steel plates like AR500 models or even some thicker ceramic plates I’ve used, the Custom Armor Group plate felt significantly lighter and less restrictive. While plates from companies like RMA Armament offer similar protection levels, the Custom Armor Group plate seemed more readily available and had positive initial reviews on various forums. Ultimately, the promise of comfort and readily available information swayed my decision.
My initial impression is one of cautious optimism. I’m eager to see how it performs in real-world scenarios, but the combination of lightweight design and multi-hit capability is definitely exciting. The Custom Armor Group RSTP Level III+ ICW Multi Curve Rifle Armor Plate has the potential to be a game-changer for those needing reliable protection without sacrificing mobility.
Real-World Testing: Putting Custom Armor Group RSTP Level III+ ICW Multi Curve Rifle Armor Plate to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Custom Armor Group RSTP Level III+ ICW Multi Curve Rifle Armor Plate at a private shooting range during a full-day training exercise. The exercise simulated active shooter scenarios and required constant movement and weapon manipulation. It was paired with a Level IIIA soft armor vest as per the ICW (In Conjunction With) requirement.
Throughout the day, the weather shifted from sunny to drizzly. I found the plate remained comfortable even while wet. The multi-curve design allowed for a greater range of motion than flat plates I’ve used previously, making shouldering a rifle and moving through simulated doorways significantly easier.
Initially, I experienced a slight adjustment period getting used to the plate’s placement within my plate carrier. However, after fine-tuning the fit, the Custom Armor Group RSTP Level III+ ICW Multi Curve Rifle Armor Plate became almost unnoticeable during drills. The added weight was distributed evenly, minimizing fatigue.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of regular use, the Custom Armor Group RSTP Level III+ ICW Multi Curve Rifle Armor Plate has held up remarkably well. There are no visible signs of delamination or cracking on the ceramic strike face. Edge binding remains intact, showing no fraying despite being exposed to abrasive surfaces within my plate carrier.
The plate has been subjected to several training sessions, ranging from dynamic shooting drills to long hours of static observation. I’ve also worn it during a weekend-long wilderness survival course to evaluate comfort under sustained physical exertion. The plate continued to provide consistent protection and comfort throughout these diverse activities.
Maintenance is simple: a wipe down with a damp cloth after use to remove any sweat or debris. This is the extent of care needed. Based on my prior experience with similar ceramic plates, the Custom Armor Group RSTP Level III+ ICW Multi Curve Rifle Armor Plate is outperforming expectations in terms of durability and comfort, demonstrating a superior balance of protection and wearability.
Breaking Down the Features of Custom Armor Group RSTP Level III+ ICW Multi Curve Rifle Armor Plate
Specifications
The Custom Armor Group RSTP Level III+ ICW Multi Curve Rifle Armor Plate is engineered to provide protection against specific rifle threats. The plate is constructed with a ceramic strike face backed with a polyethylene (PE) layer. This combination is designed to defeat common rifle rounds while maintaining a reasonable weight.
- Manufacturer: Custom Armor Group.
- Threat Level: Level III+ ICW (In Conjunction With) Level IIIA soft armor. This means it must be used with Level IIIA soft armor to achieve the specified protection level.
- Material: Ceramic strike face with PE backing. This combination provides a good balance of protection and weight.
- Thickness: 0.55 inches. Its thin profile allows for better mobility and reduces bulk.
- Curve: Multi-Curved. The multi-curve design enhances comfort and ergonomics.
- Testing: Independently tested by an NIJ-approved laboratory to meet or exceed ballistic resistance as specified under NIJ Standard 0101.06 (modified SAPI). This ensures the plate meets recognized performance standards.
These specifications translate into a plate that is comfortable to wear for extended periods, offers robust protection against common rifle threats when used with soft armor, and has been independently verified for its ballistic performance. The Custom Armor Group RSTP Level III+ ICW Multi Curve Rifle Armor Plate is a well-engineered product with a focus on practical application.
Performance & Functionality
The Custom Armor Group RSTP Level III+ ICW Multi Curve Rifle Armor Plate performs its primary function of ballistic protection admirably. Independent testing verifies its ability to stop the specified threats when used in conjunction with Level IIIA soft armor. During range testing, the plate provided confidence in its protective capabilities.
Its strengths lie in its lightweight design and multi-curve shape. This significantly improves comfort and maneuverability compared to heavier or flatter plates. The primary area for potential improvement lies in providing more detailed information regarding specific threats stopped beyond the general “Level III+” designation, providing users with a more transparent understanding of the plate’s limitations.
Overall, the Custom Armor Group RSTP Level III+ ICW Multi Curve Rifle Armor Plate meets my expectations for a lightweight, multi-hit capable rifle plate. Its design prioritizes wearability without sacrificing ballistic protection.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Custom Armor Group RSTP Level III+ ICW Multi Curve Rifle Armor Plate is impressive. The ceramic strike face is uniformly bonded to the PE backing, and the edge binding is securely attached. Weighing in at a manageable weight (though the exact weight isn’t explicitly provided, it feels significantly lighter than steel), it doesn’t feel overly burdensome during movement.
The multi-curve design contributes significantly to its user-friendliness. The curves conform naturally to the body, minimizing pressure points and allowing for a greater range of motion. Minimal learning curve is needed to integrate the plate into a compatible plate carrier and achieve a comfortable fit.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on three months of consistent use, the Custom Armor Group RSTP Level III+ ICW Multi Curve Rifle Armor Plate appears to be built for longevity. The ceramic strike face shows no signs of cracking or delamination. The edge binding remains securely attached.
Maintenance is straightforward: a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth after use is all that’s required. With proper care, this plate should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Custom Armor Group RSTP Level III+ ICW Multi Curve Rifle Armor Plate is designed to be used in conjunction with Level IIIA soft armor. No specific accessories are included with the plate itself.
While the plate isn’t customizable in terms of its internal components, it is compatible with a wide range of industry-standard plate carriers. This allows users to tailor their protection system to their specific needs and preferences. Compatibility with MOLLE-compatible carriers enables the attachment of pouches and other tactical gear, further enhancing its versatility.
Pros and Cons of Custom Armor Group RSTP Level III+ ICW Multi Curve Rifle Armor Plate
Pros
- Multi-hit capable: Offers protection against multiple rounds, increasing survivability.
- Lightweight design: Reduces fatigue and enhances maneuverability.
- Multi-curve shape: Provides superior comfort and ergonomics.
- Independently tested: Ensures ballistic performance meets recognized standards.
- Relatively thin profile: Minimizes bulk and enhances mobility.
Cons
- ICW Requirement: Requires Level IIIA soft armor, adding to the overall cost and bulk.
- Limited Threat Specification: Specific threats defeated beyond “Level III+” not explicitly detailed.
Who Should Buy Custom Armor Group RSTP Level III+ ICW Multi Curve Rifle Armor Plate?
The Custom Armor Group RSTP Level III+ ICW Multi Curve Rifle Armor Plate is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and responsible civilians who require reliable rifle protection without sacrificing mobility. It’s particularly well-suited for those who need to wear armor for extended periods or operate in dynamic environments. Individuals engaging in tactical training or active shooter response scenarios will also benefit greatly from its lightweight and ergonomic design.
This product may not be ideal for individuals on a very tight budget, as the ICW requirement necessitates purchasing Level IIIA soft armor in addition to the plate. Those requiring protection against specific, less common threats might also need to explore alternative armor solutions with more specialized ballistic capabilities. A compatible plate carrier and Level IIIA soft armor are must-have accessories to maximize the effectiveness of this plate.
Conclusion on Custom Armor Group RSTP Level III+ ICW Multi Curve Rifle Armor Plate
The Custom Armor Group RSTP Level III+ ICW Multi Curve Rifle Armor Plate offers a compelling combination of ballistic protection, lightweight design, and ergonomic comfort. Its multi-hit capability and independent testing provide confidence in its performance. While the ICW requirement adds to the overall cost, the resulting protection level and enhanced wearability justify the investment for those who prioritize these factors.
The price is justified for the level of protection and comfort offered, especially considering the independent testing and multi-hit capability. I would personally recommend this plate to anyone seeking a reliable and comfortable rifle armor solution. Consider the Custom Armor Group RSTP Level III+ ICW Multi Curve Rifle Armor Plate if you’re serious about personal protection without sacrificing mobility.