What size plate should I get?

Selecting the proper body armor size, to allow maximum protection and maintain ease of mobility, is of utmost importance.

The NIJ (National Institute of Justice) has taken steps to address issues that affect law enforcement personnel’s use of body armor, including issuing guidance that advises agencies to consider comfort when selecting body armor as well as information on design elements that can affect comfort. NIJ’s body armor guidance also provides information on proper fit and advises agencies to inspect armor for proper fit. In addition, the guidance advises agencies to select armor that provides full front, back and side protection and includes information about the balance between comfort and protection.

For more information, visit the article on the NIJ websites: “Factors that Affect Officers’ Use of Body Armor.”

The primary organ to be protected is the heart. Since the heart is located with its apex near the left center chest, for optimum protection the chosen ballistic insert should be wide enough to ensure complete coverage of this area as shown in the illustration below. Typically, vital organs can be covered if you measure nipple to nipple and clavicle notch to belly button.

A properly fitted torso plate should not interfere with the comfortable movement of the arms and shoulders. If a plate is too large it may impede mobility and result in difficulty holding, aiming or discharging a weapon which can result in fatigue and inaccuracy.

CHEST MEASUREMENT

Measure under arms around fullest part of the chest. Be sure to keep measuring tape level across back and comfortably loose.

LENGTH OF PLATE

Determine the length of the plate that best suits your body type while protecting all vital organs and vessels. Plate should fit comfortably when standing or sitting.

BE SURE PLATES FIT YOUR CARRIER

If you already have a vest or plate carrier, or if you will be purchasing one later, make sure it accommodates your new ballistic inserts.

STEP 1 – determine your chest measurement and length of plate that best suits you

STEP 2 – select your plate style and appropriate size

SAPI Cuts XS S M L XL
Shooter Cuts S L
Chest 32 – 35”
(81.3 – 88.9 cm)
36 – 39”
(91.4 – 99.1 cm)
40 – 43”
(101.6 – 109.2 cm)
44 – 47”
(111.8 – 119.4 cm)
48”+
(121.9 cm+)
Length of Plate Determine the optimum plate length for you.
When standing, the top plate edge should rest at the level of the suprasternal/jugular notch (see figure above).
Bottom plate edge should extend to approximately 4.5 inches above service belt
ensuring protection of vital organs and vessels.