Lightweight HG2 / IIIA+ Handgun-Threat Protection
The CASTLE12 NIJ HG2 / IIIA+ ballistic plate pair combines a lightweight UHMWPE construction with a stand-alone protection configuration.
Under the specified protection and test conditions, the plates are designed to provide independent ballistic protection without requiring an additional soft armor backer. The rigid plate format is intended for compatible plate carriers and body armor systems requiring front and rear torso coverage.
This model is designed around HG2 handgun threats while also providing published test data for selected special threats, including 5.7×28 mm SS197SR and 7.62×25 mm Tokarev FMJ. Its lightweight construction is suited to law-enforcement, security, and professional users who require mobility and reduced equipment weight.
HG2 is the current NIJ designation corresponding to the former Level IIIA handgun-threat classification. “IIIA+” is a manufacturer product designation used to identify additional special-threat performance and is not a separate official NIJ protection level.
Third-Party Ballistic Test Data
The product has been evaluated by Element U.S. Space & Defense. Published test and protection data from the original product page includes:
9mm,124-grain FMJ Test Velocity 1440~1500ft/s, No penetration，BFD did not exceed 44 mm
.44,240-grain SJHP Test Velocity 1400~1460ft/s, No penetration，BFD did not exceed 44 mm
5.7x28mm,40-grain SS197SR Test Velocity 1760~1820ft/s, No penetration，BFD did not exceed 44 mm
7.62x25mm Tokarev FMJ Test Velocity 1670~1730ft/s, No penetration，BFD did not exceed 44 mm
All ballistic data applies only to the specified model, sample configuration, test velocity, conditioning, shot placement, and laboratory test conditions shown in the applicable report. Results must not be interpreted as protection against unlisted projectiles or impact conditions.
Key Features
Lightweight UHMWPE Construction
Manufactured from ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene to balance handgun-threat protection with reduced equipment weight.
Stand-Alone Protection
Designed to provide protection under its specified configuration without requiring a separate soft armor backer.
HG2 and Selected Special-Threat Data
Published protection information includes 9×19 mm FMJ, .44 Magnum, 5.7×28 mm SS197SR, and 7.62×25 mm Tokarev FMJ.
Two Main-Plate Sizes
Available in 250 × 300 mm and 240 × 320 mm to accommodate different plate carrier dimensions and coverage requirements.
250x300x16mm;850g±0.5
240x320x16mm;1000g±0.5
Main and Side-Plate Options
Available as a front-and-rear main plate pair or as a main plate pair bundled with a side-plate pair.
Carrier Compatibility
Before ordering, verify the actual internal dimensions of the plate pockets. Carrier size labels such as S, M, L, or XL do not by themselves confirm plate compatibility.
Check the following specifications:
Plate pocket length and width
Maximum supported plate thickness
Plate cut and corner geometry
Plate curvature
Plate retention and closure system
Side-plate pocket dimensions
Protection Scope and Important Notice
This product is intended for handgun and specified special-threat protection. It is not an NIJ RF1, RF2, or RF3 rifle-protection plate and should not be represented as protection against 5.56×45 mm or 7.62×51 mm rifle threats.
No body armor provides protection against every projectile or impact condition. Performance is limited to the specified model, threats, velocities, shot placement, conditioning, and test configuration documented in the applicable laboratory report.