The issue of choosing military equipment has been on the agenda for the most Ukrainians since February 24. Someone is preparing to join the Armed Forces, while others are helping their relatives and friends to go to the front. In any case, it is better to know what the main elements of ammunition are. Today we will talk about how to choose a proper plate carrier, how it differs from body armor and what affects its level of protection. Read this article before buying armor at your own discretion.

What materials are used to make plate carriers?

The basis of high-quality tactical equipment is polyamide fiber (nylon) with a density of at least 1000d. For example, Cordura fabric, it provides this level of density. This aspect should not be neglected, because even the strongest cotton cannot withstand the constant load of plates. In addition, nylon-based materials provide an increased level of protection against moisture, which is important in field conditions.

So, we found out that the plate carrier consists of super strong fabric and plates. The latter are made from a wide variety of materials. The most common in use are the following:

  • Combat armor (a metal with a hardness of 500-600, for the purchase of which it is not necessary to prepare separate documentation);
  • Industrial steel (not reliable and very heavy to wear);
  • Ceramic (provides lightness, but needs to be replaced after every projectile or debris hit).

At the same time, you should pay attention to the expiration date of the product. In most cases, it ranges from 4 to 10 years.

The main tasks that a high-quality plate carrier should perform are holding two inserted plates and additional ammunition, as well as wear resistance.

How does a plate carrier differ from body armor?

The main difference between a bulletproof vest and a plate carrier is the area of protection of the body from damage. In addition to the front and back protection of the body, this type of equipment is also designed for the sides. In some variations, the bulletproof vest will protect the neck and groin areas.

Given that, according to statistics, about 80% of injuries on the front line are caused by body contact with projectile fragments, body armor can significantly reduce this chance. But you shouldn't hope that the armor will turn you into an immortal and thus you can’t purposefully take risks.

What should you pay attention to when choosing a tactical vest?

The main criteria for choosing protective equipment are as follows:

  • Product weight;
  • The right size;
  • Plate strength and fabric density;
  • The presence of a quick reset system.

If everything is clear with the first three criteria, there are certain questions regarding the last one. Let's explain: the fact is that often during the execution of combat tasks, soldiers have to face situations where it is necessary to act quickly. For example, if you need to swim across a reservoir or during an urgent deployment. Of course, it is quite difficult to do this in a plate carrier, the weight of which can reach 15 kilograms. For this purpose, certain types of armor have a special system that allows you to drop a heavy load in a few seconds.

What to choose for yourself?

If you are faced with the need to choose between a plate carrier and body armor, first of all, you should take into account the combat tasks and potential risks. For example, those who are on duty in open areas (on vehicles or roadblocks) can look closely at body armor, because they protect more parts of the body. Soldiers performing tasks in the trenches or for whom the main advantage is ease and speed of movement should choose a plate carrier.And yet, the main criterion for choosing is your own desire.

A bulletproof vest, unlike a plate carrier, cannot withstand a sniper bullet. But there are also certain nuances here: metal plates absorb the force of the projectile worse than ceramic plates, which gives them an advantage. And at the same time, a wound from a bullet sustained by a plate carrier will turn out to be greater from metal than from ceramics.

Now you know what to pay attention to when choosing armor for a soldier. Do not forget to check with the seller the product's quality certificate and documentation confirming its testing.