The Caliber Armor CaliberX is a Level IIIA/HG2 soft body armor panel manufactured in Louisville, Kentucky, using a hybrid UHMWPE and Para-Aramid construction. At just 1/4 inch thick and meeting the gold-standard 1.1 lb per sq. ft. areal density, it is independently tested at NIJ-accredited laboratories against NIJ-STD-0101.06 Level IIIA and 0101.07 HG2 threat parameters. Designed to fit the carrier of your choosing, the CaliberX is available in 8x10, 10x12, and 11x14 sizes for front, back, and side coverage.

Who this is for

• Law enforcement and security professionals who need all-day wearable protection during long shifts without fatigue from excess weight.
• Civilians seeking discreet daily protection who want a 1/4-inch-thin panel that pairs with a carrier of their choice for low-profile use.
• Preparedness-minded individuals who want a TSA-approved, American-made ballistic panel they can integrate into an existing soft armor setup.

Threat coverage

The CaliberX is rated and tested to NIJ-STD-0101.06 Level IIIA and NIJ-STD-0101.07 HG2 standards, covering a wide range of common handgun threats. It stops 9mm FMJ, .44 Magnum SJHP/JHP, and .357 SIG. Additional special threat testing has been conducted beyond the NIJ standard set.

Like all soft body armor, the CaliberX does not protect against rifle-caliber threats. Pairing this panel with a hard rifle-rated plate provides combined coverage for higher-threat environments.

Concealability and comfort

At 1/4 inch thick and designed around the 1.1 lb per sq. ft. areal density target, the CaliberX hybrid layup of UHMWPE and Para-Aramid runs 10% lighter and produces 15% less backface deformation than comparable soft armor systems. Lower backface deformation means reduced blunt force trauma transfer to the wearer on impact. The panel flexes naturally to the body, which allows it to move with you through extended wear rather than against you. A water-resistant ripstop outer covering handles field exposure, while interior stitching reinforces long-term durability. The CaliberX is TSA approved for travel.

Care and maintenance

A dedicated Care, Use, and Fitting Guide is available directly from Caliber Armor. For specific washing instructions, storage recommendations, or questions about end-of-service intervals, contact us and we will provide the current guidance.

Specifications

Fit and carrier compatibility

The CaliberX panel is sized to fit the carrier of your choosing. The 10x12 fits the vast majority of plate carrier soft armor backer pockets and standard soft armor vest pockets. The 8x10 suits smaller or youth carriers and side plate pockets. The 11x14 provides extended coverage and fits large-format soft armor carriers. If you need help confirming compatibility with a specific carrier, contact us.

Frequently asked questions

Can this be shipped to my state?

The CaliberX cannot be shipped to New York or Connecticut due to state body armor restrictions. Under 18 U.S.C. § 931, anyone with a federal felony conviction for a crime of violence is prohibited from purchasing or possessing body armor. The CaliberX is also subject to U.S. export regulations under EAR and ITAR — it cannot be exported or transferred outside the United States without written approval from the U.S. Department of Commerce or Department of State.

What is NIJ Level IIIA/HG2 and what does it stop?

NIJ Level IIIA (under the 0101.06 standard) and HG2 (under the 0101.07 standard) represent the highest handgun protection level in soft body armor. The CaliberX stops 9mm FMJ, .44 Magnum SJHP/JHP, and .357 SIG, along with additional special threats tested beyond the NIJ baseline. These are the same rounds covered by both standard designations.

Will this stop rifle rounds?

No. Soft body armor at IIIA/HG2 is not rated to stop rifle-caliber threats. For rifle protection, a hard armor plate rated Level III, III+, or IV must be added. The CaliberX can function as a soft armor backer behind a hard plate to add IIIA-level handgun coverage to your setup.

How does HG2 compare to the legacy Level IIIA designation?

HG2 is the NIJ 0101.07 successor designation to the legacy 0101.06 Level IIIA. Both cover the same core handgun threat set. The 0101.07 standard introduced updated test protocols and conditioning requirements. The CaliberX is tested to both standards, so it meets the requirements under either designation.

Can I wash this panel?

Refer to the Caliber Armor Care, Use, and Fitting Guide for washing and storage instructions. If you need a copy or have specific questions about maintenance, contact us and we will send you the current guidance.

What size do I need?

It depends on your carrier and your coverage preference. The 10x12 fits most standard soft and hard armor carriers. The 8x10 suits smaller carriers or side panel pockets. The 11x14 provides extended torso coverage in large-format vests. If you are unsure which size pairs with your carrier, contact us for a fit recommendation.