First Impressions of Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers
The Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers represents a significant advancement in personal protection equipment, offering rifle-rated protection in a surprisingly lightweight and maneuverable package. Manufactured by Premier Body Armor, this shield aims to bridge the gap between bulky, cumbersome ballistic shields and the need for rapid response in high-risk situations. Its ambidextrous design, durable construction, and ability to facilitate one-handed firearm manipulation immediately caught my attention.
For years, I’ve worked with law enforcement and security teams, acutely aware of the limitations of traditional ballistic shields. They are often too heavy and unwieldy for dynamic scenarios. My need was for a shield that could provide adequate protection without sacrificing agility and ease of use, especially in confined spaces.
Unboxing the Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers, I was immediately struck by its solid feel and relatively light weight. The matte black finish and angled corners gave it a tactical, purposeful look, while the handles felt secure and well-placed. The build quality appears robust, with no obvious weak points or imperfections in the Polyurea coating.
Compared to other Level III shields I’ve used, the Stratis Pro stands out due to its weight and design. Many older shields are noticeably heavier, making them difficult to maneuver for extended periods. This shield seemed to offer a better balance of protection and usability.
My initial reaction was excitement mixed with cautious optimism. The Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers looked promising, but the real test would be its performance in a live-fire environment.
Real-World Testing: Putting Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers at a controlled shooting range designed to simulate urban environments. The range allowed me to practice moving and engaging targets while using the shield. I specifically focused on transitioning between shield-up and weapon-ready positions.
During the testing, I experienced light rain. The Polyurea coating effectively repelled water, maintaining a secure grip. The shield remained stable even when slightly wet.
The ambidextrous handles made the shield easy to deploy quickly and switch between hands as needed. While the weight took a little getting used to, it felt manageable even after several repetitions. The angled corners did indeed provide a stable platform for supporting my handgun during one-handed firing.
After the first use, I noticed some minor scuffing on the bottom edge of the shield from contact with the ground. However, the coating appeared to hold up well, preventing any significant damage.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use in drills and training scenarios, the Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no cracks or delaminations in the polyethylene, and the coating continues to resist abrasions. The handles remain secure and show no signs of loosening.
Maintenance is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth removes most dirt and grime. I haven’t needed to use any specialized cleaning products.
Compared to my experiences with other shields, the Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers outperforms them in both maneuverability and comfort. Its lighter weight makes it possible to maintain a defensive posture for longer periods without excessive fatigue. The design facilitates efficient transitions between shield and weapon.
Breaking Down the Features of Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers
Specifications
- The Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers is constructed from domestically sourced Polyethylene. This material provides Level III protection while keeping the weight down.
- It is rated to defeat special threats, including 7.62×39 123gr PS Ball (MSC) and 5.56×45 55gr (M193) rounds. However, it is important to note that this shield is not rated to stop M855 ammunition.
- The shield weighs 8.6 lbs (3.9 kg). This weight allows for increased maneuverability compared to heavier steel shields.
- It measures 15 inches (38 cm) in length and 18 inches (45.75 cm) in width. This size offers sufficient coverage without being overly cumbersome.
- The Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers is finished with a matte black Polyurea coating. The coating provides water resistance and protects against scratches and abrasions.
- The handles are designed to be ambidextrous. This ambidextrous design allows for comfortable use by both left and right-handed individuals.
These specifications are important because they directly affect the shield’s performance, usability, and durability. The weight, size, and materials determine how easily the shield can be deployed and maneuvered. The protection level ensures that it can effectively stop common rifle threats.
Performance & Functionality
The Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers excels at providing rifle-rated protection in a lightweight and maneuverable package. It allows users to maintain a defensive posture while retaining the ability to engage threats effectively.
Its strengths include its relatively light weight, durable construction, and ambidextrous design. The angled corners for one-handed firearm manipulation are also a significant advantage.
One area for potential improvement is the size. While the shield provides adequate coverage, some users may prefer a larger model for increased protection.
Overall, the Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers meets and, in some cases, exceeds expectations for a Level III+ shield in its class.
Design & Ergonomics
The Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers is well-designed and ergonomically sound. The materials are high-quality and the construction is robust.
The shield’s weight is a key consideration. At 8.6 lbs, it strikes a good balance between protection and maneuverability.
The ambidextrous handles are comfortable and secure. They allow for a firm grip and easy transitions between hands.
There is no significant learning curve associated with using the Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers. Its design is intuitive and user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers is built to last. The Polyethylene construction and Polyurea coating provide excellent resistance to wear and tear.
With proper care and maintenance, this shield should provide years of reliable service. Cleaning is simple. Wipe-downs with a damp cloth are sufficient to remove most dirt and grime.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers comes with versatile handles. It includes one adjustable strap for universal fit and comfort and one duty-rated handle for a secure grip.
There are limited customization options for the shield itself. However, users can add accessories such as lights or communication devices using aftermarket mounting solutions that attach to the handles.
The Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers is designed to be a standalone protective device. It does not require any specific accessories to function effectively.
Pros and Cons of Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers
Pros
- Lightweight and Maneuverable: The 8.6 lb weight allows for extended use without excessive fatigue.
- Rifle-Rated Protection: Provides Level III+ protection against common rifle threats.
- Ambidextrous Design: Suitable for both left and right-handed users.
- Durable Construction: Polyethylene and Polyurea coating ensure long-lasting performance.
- Angled Corners: Facilitate one-handed firearm manipulation.
Cons
- Not Rated for M855: Does not provide protection against M855 ammunition.
- Limited Customization: Few options for adding accessories directly to the shield surface.
Who Should Buy Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers?
The Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and executive protection teams. It also benefits individuals who require a lightweight, rifle-rated shield for home defense or personal security.
Those requiring protection against M855 ammunition should skip this product. They should instead seek a shield rated to defeat that specific threat.
A must-have accessory is a reliable method for carrying or storing the shield when not in use. A dedicated bag or sling would greatly enhance its portability.
Conclusion on Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers
The Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers is a well-designed and effective personal protection device. Its combination of rifle-rated protection, lightweight construction, and ambidextrous design makes it a valuable asset for anyone facing potential threats.
At $985.00, the price is justified given the level of protection and usability offered. The Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers provides a significant advantage over heavier, less maneuverable shields.
I would definitely recommend the Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers to anyone seeking a reliable and practical rifle-rated shield. It offers a winning combination of protection, mobility, and ease of use. Invest in your safety and get yourself a Premier Body Armor Stratis Pro Shield Level III+ Plate Carriers today!