When it comes to body armor, two main types of plates are used for protection – steel and ceramic. Both have their advantages and disadvantages depending on the type of threat you may face. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the pros and cons of both steel and ceramic plates so you can make an informed decision about which type of plate is best for your needs.

Steel Plates

Steel plates are the most common type of plate used in body armor. They are typically made from AR500 grade steel, which is a hardened material designed to be able to withstand high-velocity impacts without sacrificing its protective properties. The downside to steel plates is that they can be quite heavy, making them more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces or during extended periods of wear. Additionally, some ballistic threats can penetrate steel plates if they are not thick enough or if the shooter is using higher-caliber ammunition.

Ceramic Plates

Ceramic plates offer an alternative solution for those looking for lightweight body armor options. Ceramics are lighter than steel and can provide adequate protection against lower velocity rounds while still being relatively easy to maneuver in tight spaces or during long periods of wear. However, like steel plates, ceramic armor has some drawbacks as well. It tends to be more expensive than steel and it may not provide sufficient protection against higher caliber rounds such as rifle rounds. Additionally, some ceramics may crack after multiple impacts which could reduce their effectiveness over time.

When deciding between steel and ceramic plates for your body armor setup, there are many factors to consider including cost, weight, level of protection needed, and intended use. Steel plates tend to be heavier but offer better protection against higher caliber rounds while ceramic plates tend to be lighter but may not provide adequate protection against certain types of ammo. Ultimately, it’s up to each user to decide which type of plate works best for their needs but hopefully, this blog post has provided a useful overview of both options so you can make an informed decision when selecting your next set of ar500 plates.

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