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Understanding the New NIJ Standards for Body Armor

  • Aug 24
  • 3 min read

Updated: Nov 7

What “NIJ” and the New Labels Mean


The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) sets the U.S. law enforcement standard for torso armor. In late 2023, the NIJ finalized Standard 0101.07. This new standard splits the threat labels into Handgun (HG) and Rifle (RF) categories. It references a companion specification, NIJ Standard 0123.00, which defines the exact test threats and velocities. This combination replaces the old 2008 scheme (Levels IIA/II/IIIA/III/IV). For more detailed information, visit the National Institute of Justice.


Fast Mapping: Old vs. New


This is an approximate crosswalk (not a 1:1 promise—see the test rounds below).


Legacy label (0101.06)

New label (0101.07)

Plain English

Level II

HG1

Soft armor for common handgun threats (9mm, .357 Mag at specified test speeds). Office of Justice Programs

Level IIIA

HG2

Higher-end soft armor handgun threats (hotter 9mm, .44 Mag). Office of Justice Programs

Level III

RF1

Baseline rifle plates (M80 7.62×51, 7.62×39 MSC, 5.56 M193). Office of Justice Programs

— (new)

RF2

Intermediate rifle—including M855 “green tip” in addition to RF1 threats. Office of Justice Programs

Level IV

RF3

Highest rifle level, test includes .30-06 M2 AP. Office of Justice Programs


Why “approximate”? Because the official test rounds and velocities define the levels—not the cartridge names alone. The new specification broadened rifle tests and adjusted speeds. Thus, treat the table as guidance, not gospel. For more information, refer to the Office of Justice Programs.


The Official Test Threats (from NIJ 0123.00)


Handgun (Soft Armor)


Rifle (Hard Armor)


What It Does (and Doesn’t) Mean in Practice


  • NIJ is a lab standard, not a crystal ball. Armor is certified to defeat specific test threats at set velocities. Real-world ammo, barrel lengths, distances, and angles vary. For more details, visit the National Institute of Justice.

  • “Special threat” ≠ NIJ level. If you care about unusual rounds (short-barrel 5.56, hot 9mm +P+, etc.), look for manufacturer “special threat” data in addition to NIJ level. This information is not part of NIJ certification. For more, check the National Institute of Justice.


  • Stab/Slash isn’t covered here. That’s NIJ 0115.00 (a separate standard). For more information, visit the National Institute of Justice.


  • Law-enforcement focus. NIJ is aimed at U.S. law enforcement use; the military follows different MIL-SPEC protocols. For further details, refer to the National Institute of Justice.


Buying/Fit Sanity Checks for Your Page


  • Check the NIJ Compliant Products List (CPL) to confirm actual certified models. Link it prominently. For more information, visit the National Institute of Justice.


  • Fit matters. Even the best plate fails if it’s the wrong size or poorly seated in the carrier (edge exposure, excessive backface trauma, etc.). NIJ 0101.07 adds updated lab practices and references the 0123 table so test methods and threats are consistent. For more details, check the National Institute of Justice.


  • Weigh the tradeoffs. HG2 soft armor is light and concealed; RF2/RF3 plates stop rifle rounds but add weight and bulk. That’s normal and expected under the standard. For more information, refer to the Office of Justice Programs.


Conclusion


Understanding the new NIJ standards is crucial for anyone involved in law enforcement or personal protection. The changes in labeling and testing criteria reflect advancements in technology and the need for better protection against evolving threats. By staying informed about these standards, you can make better decisions regarding body armor.


For further insights and updates, continue to follow the developments from the NIJ and related organizations.

 
 
 
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