Custom Armor Group 4sas7 Level IV Armor Plate Review

The Custom Armor Group 4sas7 Level IV Stand Alone Armor Plate: A Review After Real Use

For over a decade, I’ve handled and assessed all kinds of tactical gear. Body armor is paramount, and when I came across the Custom Armor Group 4sas7 Level IV Stand Alone Armor Plate, I knew I had to examine it closely. This plate promises Level IV protection at a surprisingly accessible price point, and that immediately piqued my interest.

I needed a reliable, standalone Level IV plate without breaking the bank. The CAG 4sas7’s certification and claimed armor-piercing protection made it a strong contender. I’ve tested plates from AR500 Armor and RMA Armament previously.

Upon unboxing, the CAG 4sas7 felt solid, but also noticeably thinner than some other Level IV plates I’ve used. The ceramic strike face looked well-integrated with the composite backing. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; I was eager to see how it performed in real-world scenarios.

Real-World Testing: Putting Custom Armor Group 4sas7 Level IV Stand Alone Armor Plate to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test involved a day at a private shooting range, simulating tactical training exercises. I wore the CAG 4sas7 in a plate carrier during movement drills, target acquisition, and simulated room clearing scenarios. The plate felt relatively comfortable against my body, especially considering its Level IV rating.

I also subjected the CAG 4sas7 to simulated environmental stressors. This included getting it wet with a hose and exposing it to dusty conditions created with a leaf blower. The plate didn’t seem adversely affected, and the exterior material appeared water-resistant enough for brief exposure. After a few hours of drills, the plate’s weight became noticeable, but remained manageable.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the CAG 4sas7 during training sessions, it has held up well. There are no visible signs of delamination or cracking, which is a good sign. The edges show slight wear from rubbing against the plate carrier.

Maintaining the CAG 4sas7 is straightforward; wiping it down with a damp cloth removes most dirt and debris. Compared to some heavier and bulkier plates I’ve used, the CAG 4sas7 has proven surprisingly comfortable for extended wear. It doesn’t outperform high-end, multi-curve plates, but it offers excellent protection for the price.

Breaking Down the Features of Custom Armor Group 4sas7 Level IV Stand Alone Armor Plate

Specifications

• The Custom Armor Group 4sas7 Level IV Stand Alone Armor Plate is a Level IV stand-alone plate. This means it doesn’t require soft armor backing to meet Level IV protection standards.

• It’s constructed with a ceramic strike face and a composite backing. This combination is designed to defeat armor-piercing threats while keeping weight manageable.

• The CAG 4sas7 is certified compliant by NIJ to NIJ Standard 0101.04 (2005IR). This certification ensures the plate meets specific ballistic resistance requirements.

• The plate has a thickness of 0.75 inches. This relatively thin profile is a plus for mobility and comfort.

• The manufacturer is Custom Armor Group. A known manufacturer in the armor industry.

These specifications are critical because they dictate the level of protection, comfort, and overall usability of the plate. The NIJ certification provides assurance of its ballistic capabilities, while the thickness and materials impact its weight and wearability.

Performance & Functionality

The Custom Armor Group 4sas7 Level IV Stand Alone Armor Plate is designed to stop armor-piercing rifle rounds. The ceramic strike face is meant to shatter the projectile upon impact. The composite backing then absorbs the remaining energy.

The plate excels in offering a high level of protection at a lower price point. However, it’s a single-curve plate and therefore less form-fitting than multi-curve options. It comfortably met my expectations for Level IV protection during the training.

Design & Ergonomics

The CAG 4sas7 features a single-curve design. It provides decent coverage of the vital organs. The build quality is acceptable for the price, with no obvious defects in the ceramic or composite materials.

The plate is relatively easy to insert and remove from most standard plate carriers. There is no significant learning curve; it functions as expected.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Custom Armor Group 4sas7 Level IV Stand Alone Armor Plate should last for several years. Avoid dropping it on hard surfaces or exposing it to extreme temperatures. The surface can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild detergent.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Custom Armor Group 4sas7 Level IV Stand Alone Armor Plate doesn’t come with any specific accessories. Its use is dictated by the plate carrier it’s inserted into. The plate is compatible with most standard plate carriers designed for 10″x12″ SAPI plates.

Pros and Cons of Custom Armor Group 4sas7 Level IV Stand Alone Armor Plate

Who Should Buy Custom Armor Group 4sas7 Level IV Stand Alone Armor Plate?

The Custom Armor Group 4sas7 Level IV Stand Alone Armor Plate is perfect for budget-conscious individuals. It is also ideal for preppers, security professionals, and anyone needing reliable Level IV protection without a premium price. Those prioritizing comfort and advanced ergonomics may want to consider more expensive, multi-curve options.

A quality plate carrier is a must-have accessory to use this armor effectively. Consider adding trauma pads for increased comfort and impact absorption.

Conclusion on Custom Armor Group 4sas7 Level IV Stand Alone Armor Plate

The Custom Armor Group 4sas7 Level IV Stand Alone Armor Plate is a solid choice for those seeking affordable and reliable Level IV protection. The price is certainly justified by the protection it offers. I would recommend it to anyone who needs a dependable armor solution.

If you are looking for peace of mind and certified protection without emptying your wallet, give the Custom Armor Group 4sas7 Level IV Stand Alone Armor Plate a serious look. Equip yourself responsibly and stay safe!