NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Urban Gray Review

The NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Urban Gray Made a Bold First Impression

The NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Urban Gray enters a crowded market, promising a blend of protection and practicality at an accessible price point. NcStar isn’t necessarily the first name that springs to mind when thinking about top-tier ballistic protection, so this offering immediately piqued my interest, especially given the current climate. I was eager to see if it could truly deliver on its claims without compromising on either safety or utility.

As a gear specialist working with law enforcement and security professionals, I’m constantly evaluating new equipment to assess its suitability for various operational roles. Lately, there’s been an increased need for concealable, yet effective, ballistic solutions. This NcStar backplate seemed to address that need, but I was skeptical about the overall quality given the price.

The unboxing experience was straightforward – the backpack and plate arrived securely packaged. My initial impression was that the urban gray color scheme was tactical without being overtly militaristic, which is a plus for blending into civilian environments. The backpack itself felt reasonably well-constructed, although the material didn’t quite match the robustness of some higher-end tactical packs I’ve handled. The plate, encased in its protective coating, felt reassuringly solid.

Compared to standalone Level IIIA plates or integrated plate carriers from brands like Safariland or Condor, the NcStar offering presents a more affordable, all-in-one solution. While the Safariland options offer arguably superior ballistic protection and comfort, their price point is considerably higher, making them less accessible. The Condor integrated plate carriers are similarly priced but often lack the streamlined design of the NcStar backpack. I picked this NcStar product hoping for a balance between affordability, functionality, and a degree of protection that surpasses the typical soft armor solutions.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The design is practical, and the price is certainly attractive, but the real test would be how it performs under stress and how it holds up over time. I was excited to see if it would exceed my expectations, or if the low cost came with inevitable compromises.

Real-World Testing: Putting NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Urban Gray to the Test

First Use Experience

I initially tested the NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Urban Gray at a local shooting range and during a force-on-force training exercise. The range test involved wearing the backpack while conducting various shooting drills, simulating real-world movement and engagement scenarios. The force-on-force training allowed me to assess its impact on mobility and situational awareness in a more dynamic environment.

The backpack performed surprisingly well, maintaining a relatively comfortable fit even during strenuous activity. The weight distribution was decent, preventing excessive strain on my shoulders and back, although I did notice some slight shifting of the plate during rapid movements. The urban gray color proved effective at blending in during the force-on-force scenarios, held in an abandoned building.

One initial issue I encountered was the limited breathability of the back panel, leading to increased sweating during extended use, particularly in warmer conditions. It took a bit of adjusting to get the straps positioned just right to minimize movement of the pack while running. Despite these minor adjustments, the initial use was largely positive.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of incorporating the NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Urban Gray into my regular gear rotation, its durability has become more apparent. The backpack itself is showing some minor signs of wear and tear, particularly around the seams and zipper pulls. The plate, however, remains in excellent condition thanks to its protective coating.

Cleaning the backpack is relatively straightforward – a damp cloth and mild detergent are usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The ballistic plate requires minimal maintenance, only needing occasional wiping to remove surface contaminants. Compared to my previous experience with standalone plate carriers requiring frequent adjustments and cleaning, the NcStar solution has proven to be more convenient and low-maintenance.

While the NcStar offering doesn’t quite match the comfort and durability of more expensive options, it has consistently outperformed my expectations given its price point. It’s a reliable and practical solution for individuals seeking a balance between protection, utility, and affordability. It hasn’t replaced my go-to plate carrier for high-threat scenarios, but it’s become a valuable addition to my kit for lower-profile operations.

Breaking Down the Features of NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Urban Gray

Specifications

The NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Urban Gray combines a tactical backpack with a Level IIIA hard ballistic plate. The plate itself is constructed from UHMWPE (Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene) fabrics. This material provides effective protection against common pistol caliber threats.

The ballistic plate is a flat, rectangular cut measuring 11″ x 14″. It is tested in accordance with Level IIIA Standard 0101.06. This means it is capable of stopping 9mm and .44 Magnum rounds up to 1,400 FPS, offering reliable pistol caliber protection. Note: this plate does NOT offer rifle ammunition protection.

The backpack features a main compartment with dimensions of 18″ H x 12″ W x 6.5″ D (1404 Square Inches), a middle compartment measuring 18″ H x 12″ W x 2.5″ D (540 Square Inches), a top outside compartment with dimensions of 5″ H x 10.25″ W x 1.25″ D (64 Square Inches), and a bottom outside compartment measuring 10.75″H x 10.75″W x 1.75″ D (202 Square Inches). These dimensions provide ample storage space for essential gear.

The UHMWPE plate is coated with a durable Polyurea spray. This coating enhances the plate’s corrosion resistance, structural integrity, waterproof capabilities, and abrasion resistance, ensuring long-lasting performance. The overall color scheme is urban gray.

Performance & Functionality

The NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Urban Gray performs its primary job of providing ballistic protection effectively. The Level IIIA plate offers reliable defense against pistol caliber threats, providing peace of mind in potentially dangerous situations. Its usability as a backpack is also commendable.

The strengths lie in its affordability and all-in-one design. The main compartment easily holds a change of clothes, while the smaller compartments organize EDC items. The backplate’s limitation is its lack of rifle-rated protection.

It meets expectations for a Level IIIA-rated backplate, and offers practical functionality as a backpack. The durability of the backpack construction could be improved.

Design & Ergonomics

The NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Urban Gray utilizes a functional design. The backpack features multiple compartments and MOLLE webbing for customization. This allows users to organize their gear according to their specific needs, enhancing overall efficiency.

The build quality of the backpack is decent, with reasonably durable materials and sturdy stitching. However, the materials don’t quite match the quality of higher-end tactical packs. The weight distribution is adequate, but could be improved for enhanced comfort during extended wear.

The backpack is relatively user-friendly, with a straightforward layout and easy-to-access compartments. There is minimal learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Urban Gray should last for several years with proper care and maintenance. The UHMWPE plate is highly durable and resistant to degradation, ensuring long-lasting ballistic protection. The backpack is more prone to wear and tear, particularly around high-stress areas like the seams and zippers.

Maintaining the backpack is relatively simple – regular cleaning with a damp cloth and mild detergent should suffice. The ballistic plate requires minimal maintenance, only needing occasional wiping to remove surface contaminants. Repairing the backpack may be challenging due to the complexity of its construction and the availability of replacement parts.

Accessories and Customization Options

The NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Urban Gray comes with the ballistic plate and the backpack. Customization options are primarily limited to the MOLLE webbing on the exterior of the backpack. This allows users to attach additional pouches, accessories, and gear, tailoring the backpack to their specific needs.

While the backpack is not specifically designed to be compatible with accessories from other brands, the MOLLE webbing should accommodate most standard MOLLE-compatible pouches and attachments. Additional internal organizers may be useful to further compartmentalize the main storage area.

Pros and Cons of NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Urban Gray

Who Should Buy NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Urban Gray?

The NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Urban Gray is perfect for security personnel, private investigators, and concerned citizens seeking affordable ballistic protection with practical utility. It’s also well-suited for preppers and survivalists looking for a versatile and discreet way to carry essential gear while maintaining a degree of protection. Law enforcement or military personnel could use the product as an affordable, lower-profile alternative to standard plate carriers for specific off-duty or undercover assignments.

Those who require rifle-rated protection or demand the highest level of durability and comfort should skip this product. Individuals with very specific gear requirements might find the backpack’s storage capacity or configuration limiting. Someone who needs robust and long-lasting tactical gear would be better served by spending more money.

A must-have accessory would be additional MOLLE-compatible pouches to maximize the backpack’s storage capacity. It could be useful to purchase higher-quality zipper pulls.

Conclusion on NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Urban Gray

The NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Urban Gray offers a compelling blend of affordability, functionality, and protection, making it a worthwhile investment for individuals seeking a practical and accessible ballistic solution. While it may not match the premium features or durability of higher-end options, it delivers reliable Level IIIA protection and versatile storage capabilities at a fraction of the cost.

The price is certainly justified for the level of protection and utility offered. It’s not a perfect product, but it’s a solid value proposition for those on a budget.

I would personally recommend it to anyone seeking a balance between affordability, functionality, and basic ballistic protection. If you’re looking for an entry-level ballistic solution that doesn’t break the bank, give the NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Urban Gray a serious look. Equip yourself with confidence and peace of mind without emptying your wallet!