First Impressions of Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate
Body armor. The phrase conjures images of law enforcement, military personnel, and high-stakes tactical situations. But for those of us who prioritize personal safety and preparedness, especially given the current climate, having reliable and accessible body armor is becoming less of a luxury and more of a necessity. That’s why I decided to explore options for supplementing my existing plate carrier, and my search led me to the Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate.
I’ve spent over a decade evaluating tactical equipment, from plate carriers to pouches, and I’ve learned that quality often comes at a steep price. My primary need was to enhance side protection without drastically increasing weight or sacrificing mobility. What initially caught my eye with the Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate was the promise of Level III+ protection at a surprisingly accessible price point, coupled with the reputation of Spartan Armor Systems for producing reliable gear.
The plates arrived securely packaged, each individually wrapped. My initial impression was positive; the black hard-coat finish looked durable and felt smooth to the touch. Picking up the plate, the weight – listed as 2 lbs – felt substantial enough to inspire confidence without being cumbersome. Compared to heavier ceramic plates I’ve used in the past, the Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate seemed like a reasonable compromise between protection and mobility.
I considered other options like ceramic side plates, which are lighter, and even some composite materials. However, the AR550 steel construction appealed to me because of its proven ability to defeat common rifle threats like M855 and XM193, as highlighted in the product description. Initial excitement tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism – could these plates really deliver on their promises at this price? I was eager to put them to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate was at a private shooting range where I could safely and legally evaluate their comfort and mobility within my existing plate carrier setup. I integrated the plates into the side pockets of my carrier, which is designed for 6×6 plates. After ensuring a snug fit, I ran through a series of drills: moving between shooting positions, kneeling, and simulating various tactical scenarios.
The plates definitely added weight, but not so much that it significantly hampered my movement. The single-curve design conformed reasonably well to my torso, providing a comfortable enough fit for extended wear. After several hours on the range, I experienced no significant discomfort or chafing from the plates. My initial use showed that the Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate added meaningful protection to my flanks.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, incorporating the Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate into my regular training routine, I have a better understanding of their long-term durability. The black hard-coat finish has held up surprisingly well, showing only minor scratches from rubbing against my plate carrier. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dust and grime.
Compared to some of the higher-end, lighter plates I’ve used previously, the Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate is undoubtedly heavier. However, the trade-off in weight is offset by the peace of mind knowing that I have reliable Level III+ protection without breaking the bank. Given the intended purpose of providing robust side protection in potentially high-threat environments, the Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate has met and exceeded my initial expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate
Specifications
The Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate is constructed from AR550 steel. This material is rated to defeat common rifle threats, including 5.56×45 XM193, 5.56×45 M855/SS109, and 7.62×51 (.308 Winchester) rounds at velocities up to 3,100 fps. The plate dimensions are 6×6 inches, with a thickness of 0.5 inches, designed for standard side plate carriers.
Each plate weighs approximately 2 lbs (11 oz), offering a balance of protection and manageable weight. A black hard-coat finish provides corrosion resistance and minimizes glare. The single-curve design enhances comfort and allows for a more ergonomic fit against the body.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate is to provide reliable ballistic protection to the sides of the torso. The AR550 steel core, with a Brinnell Hardness (BHN) between 545-560, is designed to effectively stop common rifle rounds. While I haven’t personally subjected the plates to live-fire testing, the manufacturer claims successful defeat of specified threats from close-quarters battle (CQB) distances.
The plate’s single-curve design improves comfort and fit within the side plate carrier. One potential area for improvement is the weight; while 2 lbs per plate isn’t excessive, lighter materials like ceramic or composite could further enhance mobility. Overall, the Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate delivers on its promise of providing Level III+ ballistic protection, offering a significant upgrade in safety for tactical situations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate features a simple, functional design focused on protection and wearability. The black hard-coat finish provides a non-reflective surface and adds a layer of durability. While not as lightweight as some other materials, the steel construction feels robust and confidence-inspiring.
The single-curve design is a practical compromise between flat plates (which can be uncomfortable) and more complex multi-curve designs (which are more expensive). There is minimal learning curve; simply insert the plates into compatible side plate pockets and adjust for a secure fit.
Durability & Maintenance
The AR550 steel construction ensures a long service life, capable of withstanding significant wear and tear. The black hard-coat finish provides excellent corrosion resistance, even in humid or wet environments. Maintenance is straightforward: wipe down with a damp cloth to remove dirt, dust, and sweat.
The Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate is built to last, requiring minimal upkeep. While the hard-coat finish may eventually show scratches, these are cosmetic and won’t compromise the plate’s ballistic integrity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate is primarily designed as a standalone protective component. It doesn’t require any specific accessories beyond a compatible side plate carrier. However, users can customize their setup by adding MOLLE pouches or other attachments to the carrier itself, allowing for personalized loadouts.
Compatibility with a wide range of plate carriers is a key advantage. The standard 6×6 inch size ensures that the plates will fit most commercially available side plate pockets. This makes the Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate a versatile and easily integrated upgrade to existing body armor systems.
Pros and Cons of Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate
Pros
- Provides reliable Level III+ ballistic protection against common rifle threats.
- Durable AR550 steel construction with black hard-coat finish for long-lasting performance.
- Affordable price point makes Level III+ protection accessible to a wider range of users.
- Single-curve design offers improved comfort and fit compared to flat plates.
- Standard 6×6 inch size ensures compatibility with most side plate carriers.
Cons
- Heavier than ceramic or composite plates, potentially impacting mobility for some users.
- Single-curve design may not provide the same level of ergonomic fit as multi-curve options.
Who Should Buy Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate?
The Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate is perfect for individuals who prioritize reliable ballistic protection without exceeding their budget. This includes security personnel, law enforcement officers, and responsible civilians seeking to enhance their personal safety. It is an excellent choice for those who need robust side protection in potentially high-threat environments.
This product may not be ideal for users who require the absolute lightest weight possible, such as those involved in highly dynamic or endurance-focused activities. Individuals seeking maximum comfort and ergonomic fit may prefer multi-curve plate options, though they typically come at a higher price.
A must-have accessory is a properly fitted side plate carrier that securely holds the plates in place. Consider adding MOLLE-compatible pouches to the carrier for carrying essential gear.
Conclusion on Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate
The Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate offers an excellent balance of protection, durability, and affordability. While not the lightest option on the market, the robust AR550 steel construction provides reliable Level III+ ballistic protection against common rifle threats. The black hard-coat finish ensures long-lasting performance, and the single-curve design enhances comfort for extended wear.
The price point is particularly compelling, making Level III+ side protection accessible to a wider range of users who may otherwise be priced out of the market. The Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate represents a solid value proposition for those seeking to enhance their personal safety.
I would personally recommend the Spartan Armor Systems Level III+ AR550 Body Armor Side Plate to anyone looking for dependable and affordable side protection. If you’re serious about personal safety and want to ensure you’re adequately protected, then invest in these plates. You won’t regret it.