Understanding Ballistic Protection Levels

Automotive Armor Manufacturing (AAM) understands choosing the right ballistic protection is not about “more armor is always better.” It’s about matching the protection level to the realistic threat, while balancing weight, mobility, and mission needs. This guide explains ballistic protection levels.

What Are Ballistic Protection Levels?

Ballistic protection levels classify how well armor can stop specific calibers, velocities, and impact energies. These levels are established through standardized live-fire testing and are widely used for:

• Ballistic shields
• Body armor
• Vehicle and stand-alone armor systems
• Transparent armor (ballistic glass)
• Aviation armor (aircraft)
• Industrial armor systems (buildings, walls, and/or furniture)

In the United States, the most commonly referenced standard is published by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ).

Why Protection Levels Matter

Selecting an incorrect protection level can cause serious problems:

• Under-protection → catastrophic failure against real threats
• Over-protection → excessive weight, reduced mobility, operator fatigue

Ballistic levels help decision-makers quantify protection, not guess.

AUTOMOTIVE ARMOR MANUFACTURING, INC.
1150 13th Ave East ~ Palmetto, FL 34221 ~ Tel: (941) 721-3335
www.auto-armor.com