The CompassArmor BPV-C03A VIP Style is a concealable soft body armor system rated to NIJ 0101.06 Level IIIA, II, and IIA — designed to be worn under normal clothing with front, back, and side ballistic coverage. Ballistic panels are constructed from UHMW-PE, Kevlar, or Twaron aramid fabric depending on configuration. The outer shell uses Oxford or Cotton fabric with adjustable side and shoulder straps secured by Velcro. Available in seven sizes from S through 4XL, with protection areas ranging from 0.25 sq.m. (Size S) to 0.48 sq.m. (Size 4XL) and unit weights from approximately 1.9 kg (Size S) to 3.8 kg (Size 4XL).

Who this is for

• Plainclothes professionals: executives, investigators, and security personnel who require discreet ballistic protection under business or casual attire throughout a working day.
• Law enforcement and corrections officers: personnel seeking an all-day concealable panel system that covers front, back, and sides without a visible outer carrier.
• Civilians prioritizing everyday protection: individuals who want NIJ 0101.06-rated handgun defense in a wearable format that does not telegraph the presence of body armor.

Threat coverage

The BPV-C03A VIP carries NIJ 0101.06 ratings across three protection levels: IIA, II, and IIIA. Level IIIA represents the highest handgun protection tier under the NIJ 0101.06 standard, stopping threats including .357 SIG FMJ and .44 Magnum SJHP. Level II covers 9mm FMJ and .357 Magnum JSP. Level IIA addresses lower-velocity 9mm and .40 S&W FMJ rounds. All three levels are rated against the standard handgun threat matrix defined in NIJ 0101.06.

This vest does not provide protection against rifle-caliber threats. Level IIIA soft armor is not rated to stop 5.56x45, 7.62x39, or any other rifle-velocity round. For rifle-threat scenarios, a hard armor plate must be added to the system.

Concealability and comfort

The BPV-C03A VIP is engineered specifically for concealed wear under normal clothing. The outer shell is available in Oxford or Cotton fabric, and the adjustable side and shoulder Velcro straps allow the vest to conform to a wide range of body shapes across seven sizes. The system integrates front, back, and side panel coverage in a single garment, eliminating the need for separate side plate pouches. Panel material options include UHMW-PE for a thinner, lower-weight profile, or Kevlar and Twaron aramid fabric for buyers who prefer a traditional woven construction.

Care and maintenance

The ballistic panels carry a 5-year warranty period from CompassArmor. Soft armor panels should not be machine-washed or submerged; wipe the outer shell with a damp cloth and allow to air dry away from direct heat or sunlight. Do not fold, crease, or compress the ballistic panels during storage. If the panels sustain a ballistic strike, retire the vest immediately regardless of visible damage — soft armor panels are not rated for multi-hit replacement use after an impact event.

Specifications

Fit and carrier compatibility

The BPV-C03A VIP is a standalone concealable vest — the ballistic panels are integrated into the garment rather than inserted into a separate carrier. Sizing runs from S through 4XL, accommodating a broad range of body dimensions. The adjustable Velcro side, shoulder, and upper straps provide fit customization within each size. If you are between sizes or need guidance matching your measurements to the size chart, contact us before ordering.

Frequently asked questions

What is NIJ 0101.06 Level IIIA and what does it stop?

NIJ 0101.06 Level IIIA is the highest handgun-rated protection tier under that standard. It stops .357 SIG FMJ flat-nose rounds at approximately 1,470 fps and .44 Magnum SJHP at approximately 1,430 fps, as well as all threats covered by the lower Level IIA and Level II tiers. It does not stop rifle-caliber rounds.

Will this vest stop rifle rounds?

No. Soft armor rated to Level IIIA stops handgun threats only. It provides no meaningful resistance against 5.56x45, 7.62x39, or other rifle-velocity ammunition. Stopping rifle threats requires a separate hard armor plate worn in front of or behind the soft armor panel.

Can I conceal this under a normal shirt or jacket?

Yes. The BPV-C03A VIP is designed specifically for concealed wear under normal clothing. The UHMW-PE panel option produces the thinnest profile. Fit depends on your clothing cut and size selection — order the size that matches your body measurements rather than your typical shirt size, and contact us if you need sizing guidance.

How does the HG2 designation compare to the legacy Level IIIA label?

HG2 is the threat designation introduced under the newer NIJ 0101.07 framework and covers substantially the same handgun threat set as the legacy Level IIIA designation under 0101.06. The BPV-C03A VIP is rated under NIJ 0101.06, so the applicable label is Level IIIA. The two designations address comparable threats but are defined under different standards documents.

How long do the ballistic panels last and when should I replace them?

The ballistic panels carry a 5-year warranty. Replace the vest immediately after any ballistic impact event, regardless of visible damage. Outside of a strike event, follow the manufacturer's inspection interval and retire the panels at or before the end of the warranty period, or sooner if the panels show signs of delamination, moisture intrusion, or physical damage.

Can this vest be shipped to my state?

The BPV-C03A VIP cannot be shipped to New York or Connecticut due to those states' body armor purchase 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. Contact us if you have questions about your state's regulations before placing an order.