Level 4 Plates

H WIN is a leading China manufacturer of custom Level 4 armor plates for bulk orders. Our NIJ Level IV plates are engineered for maximum ballistic protection using advanced materials. We offer OEM support — including size, shape, and coating customization — with factory-direct pricing and fast production.

• NIJ Level IV Certified: Must stop at least one hit from a .30-06 M2 AP (armor-piercing) round at 868 m/s.
• Hard Armor Construction: Made from ceramic with a composite backing.
• Custom Cut Options: Available in shooter’s cut, SAPI cut, full cut, or custom shapes.
• Single Curved or Multi-Curve Designs: Improves comfort and ergonomics during wear.

• Durable Cover Coating: Waterproof, abrasion-resistant cover to protect internal structure.

When facing high-powered rifle threats, you need the ultimate in ballistic protection. Our Level 4 plates are engineered to provide unparalleled defense against armor-piercing rounds, offering the highest level of protection under NIJ standards. Whether you’re searching for Level 4 plates for tactical operations, law enforcement, or personal security, our selection of Level 4 armor plates delivers uncompromising performance and reliability.

Level 4 plates are designed to withstand multiple hits from armor-piercing rifles, offering superior protection compared to lower-rated armor plates. They are meticulously tested and certified to meet the rigorous requirements of NIJ Standard 0101.06, ensuring they can withstand the most demanding situations.

• Unparalleled Protection: Defeats armor-piercing rifle rounds, including the 30-06 M2AP.
• Lightweight Options: We offer lightweight Level 4 plates for enhanced mobility and comfort.
• Variety of Sizes and Cuts: Choose from 10×12 Level 4 plates, 11×14 Level 4 plates, and various cut styles to fit your specific needs.
• Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials like Level 4 polyethylene plates and Level 4 ceramic plates for long-lasting performance.
• Reliable Performance: Rigorously tested and certified to meet NIJ standards.

Level 4 plates are the highest-rated armor plates under the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) standards. They are designed to stop armor-piercing rifle rounds, providing critical protection in high-threat situations.

The choice of materials directly impacts performance, weight, durability, and comfort. While all NIJ Level 4 plates must include a ceramic strike face to defeat armor-piercing rounds, the backing materials vary, and each combination serves different tactical needs.T

✅ Ceramic + UHMWPE (Polyethylene)

This is currently the most advanced and widely preferred combination. The ceramic strike face neutralizes the AP round, while the ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) backer absorbs the remaining energy. This pairing offers excellent multi-hit performance, lightweight construction, and low blunt force trauma, making it ideal for military and law enforcement units prioritizing mobility.

✅ Ceramic + E-Glass Composite

This structure is cost-effective and commonly used in standard-issue plates. E-Glass provides decent energy absorption at a lower cost, but adds weight. It’s a reliable option for agencies purchasing in bulk or where cost-efficiency outweighs weight savings.

⚠️ Ceramic + Aramid

Though once popular, aramid (such as Kevlar®) is now rarely used in Level 4 plates. It requires complex processing and doesn’t offer significant advantages over polyethylene. It’s heavier and more expensive than E-Glass but not notably stronger. Most modern manufacturers have phased it out.

🚫 Steel or Pure Polyethylene for Level IV? Not an Option

Despite common misconceptions, steel plates cannot meet Level IV requirements — they fail against .30-06 M2 AP rounds. Similarly, pure polyethylene plates are limited to Level III protection and are easily penetrated by AP rounds. Manufacturers only use polyethylene as a backing, not as a standalone Level 4 material.

🏆 High-End Ceramics: Silicon Carbide & Boron Carbide

Top-quality Level 4 plates now use silicon carbide or boron carbide ceramics. These materials significantly reduce weight without compromising stopping power. Although more expensive, they’re favored for elite military applications or situations requiring long-duration wear.

Choosing the right Level 4 plate involves balancing protection with practicality.

• Size should match your body to ensure vital coverage without restricting movement. Common sizes range from 10×12 inches to larger formats for broader torsos.
• Plate cut also matters—SAPI and shooter’s cuts offer different coverage and mobility levels.
• Weight is another critical factor: while heavier plates may feel more secure, they can reduce endurance in extended operations. Lightweight ceramic composites help reduce fatigue without sacrificing protection.

By considering these factors—size, cut, and weight—you can select a Level 4 plate that fits your mission needs and physical comfort.

Lightweight Level 4 plates are ideal for extended wear, while Level 4 multi curve plates offer a more comfortable fit. We offer a range of options to suit your individual requirements, including polyurea ballistic plates synthesized with PE and SiC that is relatively lighter, harder, and has better impact resistance.

H Win delivers innovative solutions for demanding security needs. Our Level 4 body armor plates have undergone extensive testing to ensure they meet the highest performance standards. We are committed to providing our customers with reliable and effective protection.