SA3U™ Level III UHMWPE SAPI

ADVANCED LIGHTWEIGHT HARD PLATE

Don’t compromise between a lightweight design and a high degree of protection.

Specially designed from advanced UHMWPE composite, the plate offers ballistic protection from the most common types of small arms fire and fragmentation at the lowest possible weight. The shape mimics the chest and the back curvature, providing optimal comfort.

Adapt To Your Environment

Our armor plates cover a wide range of ballistic threats from handguns to high-powered rifles – find which protection level suits your needs.

7.62×51 FMJ M80
5.56×45 FMJ M193
5.45×39 MSC 7N6 (AK-74)
7.62×39 MSC 57-N-231 (AK-47, AKM)

Tested in NIJ-accredited and DSTU certified laboratories independently.

Shock Absorption

Unlike traditional solutions, our ballistic plates are designed to absorb the kinetic kick delivered from a bullet by trapping the projectile – simultaneously eliminating the potential for ricochet. This means you can keep fighting even after taking multiple hits.

Advanced Armor Materials

Your armor could save your life, so know it like the back of your hand. Utilizing a unique UHMWPE molding technique, our ballistic plate backbones are on the cutting edge of body armor – ensuring maximum durability and protection with the lowest weight.

Stay Lightweight

Despite offering uncompromising protection, this armor plate maintains a thickness of only 1.18” and a weight of 2.6 lbs (S size). These impressive standards put less strain on the body, helping reduce the weight of your rig and increase mobility.

Multi-curve Design

Designed to mimic the human body, our 3D multi-curved design incorporates both horizontal and vertical curvature. This results in better overall comfort, mobility, and weight distribution – making your vest feel lighter and more accommodating.

Features

  • 1.Priced per plate
  • 2.All-time bestseller with optimal weight/protection/price ratio
  • 3.Can be used for both the chest and the back
  • 4.Advanced lightweight composite of UHMWPE (2.58 lbs for S)
  • 5.Same composite is available as side plates and shoulder plates
  • 6.SAPI/ESAPI cut with 4 sizes
  • 7.Neutral buoyancy in water
  • 8.3D multi-curved body shaped
  • 9.Available as STA (Stand Alone) and ICW (in conjunction with) design
  • 10.Multi-hit capability for over 6 shots
  • 11.Independently tested in an NIJ-accredited laboratory for NIJ Standard 0101.06, as well as certified laboratories according to DSTU 8835:2019 against Soviet/Russian ammunition. NIJ test report

Tech specs

Ballistic Performance

7.62×51 FMJ M80
5.56×45 FMJ M193
5.45×39 MSC 7N6 (AK-74)
7.62×39 MSC 57-N-231 (AK-47, AKM)

Use trauma pad to reduce BFD <44mm

Testing

This product has been independently tested in NIJ-approved laboratory according to the NIJ Standard 0101.06, as well as certified laboratory according to the DSTU 8835:2019 against Soviet/Russian ammunition.
NIJ test report

Armor Composite

Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE)

Karl Bosch
01 Nov 2021
We got a discount for the entire station because we are using their helmets so I bought these plates for home and can’t be happier. They are light and fit the old carrier perfectly.
H. Khoen
06 Oct 2021
Excellent plates. They are very thin and very comfortable, and I can’t imagine how something this light can stop a bullet, but we have tested one on the range and there isn’t even that much of a give in the back.
Diego Montenegro
28 Sep 2021
I have been ordering from UARM for a while and have nothing but praise. This is the third set of SA3U I’m buying because I gifted others and I truly believe that everyone should switch to these lighter plates.

FAQ

Are prices listed for a single plate?

Yes.

This allows you to choose different plates for the front and the back, as well as order multiple plates from the setting screen.

How do I determine the size of the armor plate?

By measuring your chest circumference.

With standard sizes (S, M, L, XL), it is made to cover your lethal zones on the torso (heart, lungs, kidneys) without extending further due to weight. To make the correct choice, you can use the Size Chart in the Tech Specs or the Determine Size at the settings screen on the top of the page.

Are the same plates used for the front and the back?

Yes.

The UARM™ SA3U™ hard plates are ergonomically designed to fit equally good on the front and on the back.

Additionally, there are specialized hard plates that are made for the shoulders (SA3USH™) and the sides (SA3USP™).

What is the advantage of SA3U over steel armor plates?

The most significant advantage is the absence of ricochet, as it protects both the operator, their comrades, as well as the environment of the team from secondary damage and injuries. Also, the SA3U is significantly lighter than any steel plate of comparable size.

Does the armor plate experience the backface deformation effect?

Yes.

As well as any armor plate, the SA3U™ has some backface deformation. You can always use the EVV™ Exchangeable Vest Ventilation that reduces such effect to virtually zero by simultaneously improving comfort.

What is the shelf life of armor plates?

Officially, 5 years.

The date is calculated from the manufacturing label on the back of the plate. While good maintenance and handling can preserve the plate ballistic capabilities for longer, our products come with a manufacturer’s warranty of five years.

Do armor plates lose their protective properties after their intended lifespan?

Not instantly.

Due to chemical processes and oxidation occurring inside the composite material, the anti-ballistic capabilities of the armor plate will slowly deteriorate over time. After five years, we can no longer guarantee the same level of protection and you should consider purchasing new armor plates.

How many hits can an armor plate withstand?

Armor plates are tested under the NIJ standard to withstand up to 6 consecutive hits. While that number can be greater, we can’t guarantee that result.

Is it possible to use an armor plate that has been hit by a bullet?

It is not recommended.

You may temporarily continue using a damaged armor plate during wartime conditions. The armor plates will offer some degree of ballistic protection. However, you should immediately replace your equipment as soon as possible.

Why is the weight of the armor important?

During extended missions, every pound counts. Because the SA3U is significantly lighter than its alternatives, reducing the weight can make it easier to carry other important gear, such as ammo or med-packs, and lighten the overall load to make the operator more agile and less fatigued over time. Finally, lighter gear reduces the medical impact of carrying heavy loads on the spine and lower back, reducing the chance of chronic pain and injury.

Is it NIJ Certified?

This product has been independently tested in NIJ-accredited laboratories according to the NIJ Standard 0101.06, as well as certified laboratories according to the DSTU 8782:2018. against Soviet/Russian ammunition.

Compare

SA3U™ Level III UHMWPE SAPI
SA3U™

Protection level

Type III - NIJ 0101.06
Level 3 - DSTU 8782:2018

Threats

7.62x51 FMJ M80
5.56x45 FMJ M193
5.45x39 MSC 7N6 (AK-74)
7.62x39 MSC 57-N-231 (AK-47, AKM)

Armor composite

UHMWPE

Weight (S size)

2.58 lbs (1.17 kg)
$464
SA3AU™ Level IIIA UHMWPE SAPI
SA3AU™

Protection level

Type IIIA - NIJ 0101.06
Level 2 - DSTU 8782:2018

Threats

.44 Magnum 240 gr SJHP/SWC
.357 SIG 125/158 gr FMJ
7.62x25 Tokarev SJRN FNH
9x18 mm Makarov MSC

Armor composite

UHMWPE

Weight (S size)

0.95 lbs (0.43 kg)
$142
Learn more
ICW3U™ Level III+ UHMWPE SAPI
ICW3U™

Protection level

Type III - NIJ 0101.06
Level 3 - DSTU 8782:2018

Threats

In Conjunction With Type IIIA backing

7.62x51 FMJ M80
5.56x45 FMJ M193
5.45x39 MSC 7N6 (AK-74)
7.62x39 MSC 57-N-231 (AK-47, AKM)

Armor composite

UHMWPE

Weight (S size)

2.09 lbs (0.95 kg)
$287
Learn more
SA3S™ Level III+ SILICON CARBIDE SAPI
SA3S™

Protection level

Type III - NIJ 0101.06
Level 3 - DSTU 8782:2018

Threats

5.56x45 M855 (Green Tip)
7.62x51 FMJ M80
5.56x45 M193
5.45x39 MSC 7N6 (AK-74)
7.62x39 MSC 57-N-231 (AK-47, AKM)

Armor composite

SiC + UHMWPE

Weight (S size)

3.9 lbs (1.77 kg)
$342
Learn more
SA3B™ Level III+ Boron Carbide SAPI
SA3B™

Protection level

Type III - NIJ 0101.06
Level 3 - DSTU 8782:2018

Threats

5.56x45 M855 (Green Tip)
7.62x51 FMJ M80
5.56x45 M193
5.45x39 MSC 7N6 (AK-74)
7.62x39 MSC 57-N-231 (AK-47, AKM)

Armor composite

B4C + UHMWPE

Weight (S size)

3.53 lbs (1.6kg)
$992
Learn more
SA4B™ Level IV Boron Carbide SAPI
SA4B™

Protection level

Threats

7.62x63 AP M2
7.62x54 API B-32 (Dragunov)
5.56x45 M855A1
7.62x51 FMJ M80

Armor composite

B4C + UHMWPE

Weight (S size)

4.51 lbs (2.18 kg)
$1488
Learn more
SA4S™ Level IV Silicon Carbide SAPI
SA4S™

Protection level

Type IV - NIJ 0101.06
Level 6 - DSTU 8782:2018

Threats

7.62x63 AP M2
7.62x54 API B-32 (Dragunov)
5.56x45 M855A1
7.62x51 FMJ M80

Armor composite

SiC + UHMWPE

Weight (S size)

5.64 lbs (2.56 kg)
$379
Learn more
ICW4S™ Level IV+ Silicon Carbide SAPI
ICW4S™

Protection level

Type IV - NIJ 0101.06
Level 6 - DSTU 8782:2018

Threats

In Conjunction With Type IIIA backing

7.62x63 AP M2
7.62x54 API B-32 (Dragunov)
5.56x45 M855A1
7.62x51 FMJ M80

Armor composite

SiC + UHMWPE

Weight (S size)

4.96 lbs (2.25 kg)
$315
Learn more
SA4A™ Level IV Aluminum Oxide SAPI
SA4A™

Protection level

Type IV - NIJ 0101.06
Level 6 - DSTU 8782:2018

Threats

7.62x63 AP M2
7.62x54 API B-32 (Dragunov)
5.56x45 M855A1
7.62x51 FMJ M80

Armor composite

Al₂O₃ + UHMWPE

Weight (S size)

6.39 lbs (2.9 kg)
$284
Learn more
ICW4A™ Level IV+ Aluminum Oxide SAPI
ICW4A™

Protection level

Type IV - NIJ 0101.06
Level 6 - DSTU 8782:2018

Threats

In Conjunction With Type IIIA backing

7.62x63 AP M2
7.62x54 API B-32 (Dragunov)
5.56x45 M855A1
7.62x51 FMJ M80

Armor composite

Al₂O₃ + UHMWPE

Weight (S size)

6.06 lbs (2.75 kg)
$267
Learn more

SA3U™ Level III UHMWPE SAPI

$464
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