High Ground Media, LLC

One of the longstanding producers of ballistic body armor, AR500 ARMOR® manufacturers a broad line of protective products. It’s Level III+ ASC body armor offers mid-level protection (up to M193 or M80 Ball ammunition) while maintaining the reasonable weight inherent to AR500 ARMOR® steel.

The Level III+ Advanced Shooter’s Cut (ASC) body armor is made from a single cut of 0.26” in-house AR500 ARMOR® steel, hardened to provide a multi-hit, multi-purpose body armor system. Consumers have their choice of plates formed on a continual die (i.e. flat), or curved to match the dimensions of the upper torso and improve comfort. Users also have the option to have the basecoat of protective coating applied that will prevent corrosion, or an optional coating of PAXCON PX-2100 protective coating (developed by Line-X) to capture and prevent fragmentation of the round upon impact.

Each plate of protective armor from AR500 ARMOR® ships with ASC angles, designed to lighten weight, improve flexibility (while worn in conjunction with a plate carrier), and provide maximum protection to vital areas. The side with the deeper cut (selected at the time of purchase) allows the user to fully shoulder a rifle buttstock in the shoulder’s pocket while still protecting the upper torso. The Level III+ ASC plate comes in three sizes; 8”x10”, 10”x12”, and 11”x14”. There are two side panels, and a backpack plate also available in the same material.

The Level III+ ASC plates were initially sent to the Oregon Ballistic Laboratories, one of four scientific testing centers in the United States approved by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ). There the armor was given an abbreviated/modified evaluation to meet NIJ 0101.06 Level III+ standards; meaning it is rated up to 7.62mm NATO and other rifle calibers with projectiles at or below 3,000 fps, as per NIJ 0101.06 standards.

The name of AR500 ARMOR® steel refers to its “abrasion resistance” and its 500 Brinell Hardness rating.  The Brinell rating is used to rate the hardness of steel and various other materials. The higher the Brinell rating, the harder the steel. Higher Brinell ratings also translate to faster velocities and heavier caliber rounds defeated, without penetrating the plate or going beyond the maximum acceptable indentation or deformation. For AR500 ARMOR® steel, the National Institute of Justice has set a deformation maximum of 44 millimeters. The Level III+ ASC is rated between 504 and 519 on the Brinell Hardness Scale.

While the Level III+ ASC includes the industry standard of a 5-year warranty and a 20-year shelf life, this is standard across a majority of body armor manufactures. Engineers from AR500 ARMOR® maintain that, shy of droppage or extreme environmental conditions, the hardened steel has an infinite shelf life.

Link to NIJ Body Armor Compliant Manufacturers: https://nij.ojp.gov/body-armor-compliance-testing

• See “Find Compliant Armor” and select Ballistic Resistance, Standard-06.

Featured in this review for the Level III+ ASC, was the Rogue plate carrier by Tactical Tailor, but it did not play a factor in the evaluation of the ballistic plates themselves.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Excellent (5/5): At $99 – 160 the overall cost per Level III+ ASC 10”x12” plate varies based on the options selected by the user at the time of purchase. This price range covers not only the base plate with no special coating or curvature ($99), to a plate with curvature (an additional $25), or a plate with PAXCON coating (an additional $36) to mitigate spall or fragmentation. For the sample evaluated, AR500 ARMOR® provided a set of flat Level III+ ASC plates with PAXCON. The closest market comparison available would be Spartan Armor Systems AR550 Plates w/Shooters Cut ($107.65 with no curvature and no anti-fragmentation coating). Beyond that, other notable alternatives for Level III+ body armor would be Hesco’s BI200 ($145.99 for a set of two) or DFNDR’s Level III+ Rifle Rated BA ($600 per plate) however both use composite materials in lieu of AR500 ARMOR® steel. Thus, from a price point, AR500 ARMOR® is among some of the most affordable for those entering the market and who would considering AR500 ARMOR® steel as a form of protection.
• Comfort – Average (3/5): The flat variant of the Level III+ ASC plates provided for evaluation did present some discomfort on the center of the chest during stressor drills (pushup/lunges). This was due to the conflict between the natural curvature of the chest, and the flattened surface of the steel. It is strongly encouraged for consumers to consider spending the extra cost and getting a curved plate vice flat. Since this is an option to all manufacturers of AR500 ARMOR® steel protective plates (the curve has to be pressed later after the initial cut), the evaluated plates proved appropriate (or average) comfort for wear, but again consumers should consider getting the curvature option included. While it was not required, it is recommended Level III+ plates be worn in conjunction with either soft body armor plates or trauma pads to mitigate the potential impact to the body from defeated rifle rounds given the higher ballistic velocity levels involved. The weight of the Level III+ ASC steel plates was notable, especially after wearing it in a plate carrier for longer than an hour. The weight pulled on the carrier and on the shoulder straps, so ensure your carrier has sufficient padding in that area as well as a decent cummerbund.
• Durability – Good (4/5): Given that the root material for the Level III+ ASC is still AR500 ARMOR® steel, the durability of the plates went without question. And while that means your carrier and hardware will likely wear out long before the plate or its anti-fragmentation coating, wearers should take care not to drop their plate carriers. The PAXCON (if selected as an additional option) will help ensure some mitigation from impact as well as any potential fragmentation or corrosion, but still care should be taken as it’s entirely possible the plates themselves can still damage other items due to sheer mass.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): The ASC is one of many ballistic products by AR500 ARMOR® that were tested by certified, independent laboratories to meet NIJ 0101.06 standards, and certified as a Level III+, multi-hit ballistic plate. Thus, it will provide protection against some pistol and rifle calibers, at a distance of 50 feet or more (see chart), but not others. There was little in our evaluation process that could deduce anything more that hasn’t already been done to it in a formal laboratory, and under the strictest scientific methods of measurement. AR500 ARMOR®’s product rating is readily found on the NIJ database (link above). A simple search on the internet reveals cheaper ballistic plate alternatives, but these are often ballistic plates that are “pending” NIJ certification. While tested to meet NIJ standards, the single limiting factor in the Level III+ ASC’s functional score is its lacking actual NIJ certification. Doing so would dispel any public perceptions on the quality of the material and where/how it was tested. It is recognized that attaining NIJ certification is a costly and rigid process that locks up manufacturing and innovation, however amongst the market it is the delimiting factor between the ASC and higher rated personal protective equipment. It is also the balance AR500 ARMOR® strikes at manufacturing inexpensive body armor for the public.
• Weight – Average (3/5): Each Level III+ ASC plate weighed approximately 8.5 pounds (each) with variance of an additional 10% increase in weight if the PAXCON coating (up to approximately 10 pounds per plate). The one (and only) downside to AR500 ARMOR®-based ballistic plates is their sheer weight. The Level III+ ASC weight varies depending on the desired cut and coating. At roughly 16-20 pounds for the set, the weight of the ASC plates bared on the carrier/body after a time (1hr+). This weight is consistent to other ballistic plate models of similar design and appeared in research to be the average weight for most ballistic plates of similar material.

Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)

Product Link: https://www.ar500armor.com/ar500-armor-body-armor/level-iii-body-armor-en/ar500-armor-10-x-12-asc-level-iii-body-armor.html

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via STL Shooting Enthusiasts, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.

 

Introduced in 2024, the Operatus Camo Jacket by VIKTOS provides the outdoor enthusiasts with a moderately thick, insulated jacket to continue training on the ranges while still retaining immediate access to gear and magazines.

With an outer layer made from rip-stop polyester, and FiteLite™ insulation (120gm insulation to the body, 100gm insulation on the sleeves) the Operatus Camo Jacket provides ideal heat retention and breathability of the upper torso, and is perfectly at home in the fall’s declining conditions.

At its top front, the Operatus Camo Jacket has an integrated hoodie (with nylon drawstring) that provides moderate comfort against wind, and can protect the neck from chafe caused be rifle slings or other shoulder straps.

The jacket’s lower front includes wide and deep hand pockets that are 7.5” across at the opening.

Both sides to the Operatus Camo Jacket include Viktos’ Gunvent™ design, a unique, dual-zippered side that allows for immediate access to range belt or holstered sidearm, all while wearing the jacket.

The front of the jacket is secured via YKK zipper with a nylon pull-tab that provides closure of the jacket from neck to below the waistline.

Both sleeves at the wrist, and the bottom edge of the jacket include a low-profile elastic cuff to prevent access by inclement weather. Additionally, integrated low-profile reinforcement panels at the elbow add a degree of durability to high contact areas.

The interior lining of the Operatus Camo Jacket has the same polyester fabric as the exterior to assist in moisture wicking and breathability.

The Operatus Camo Jacket comes in Murkwood Camo (featured), Nightfall, and Winterlochen and is available in sizes XSmall to 3XL.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): With an MSRP of $175, the Operatus Camo Jacket is a new addition in the line of Viktos outdoor apparel for daily or modest range use. Its materials blend water resistant fabrics, and VIKTOS’ FiteLite™ insulation to keep the end-user dry and warm in some of winter’s more modestly cold temperatures. With its two front pockets, and Gunvent™ design, the Operatus can balance between daily use while supporting those on a specific mission, or for just a day out on the range. Some comparable market alternatives would be the Woobie Tanker Jacket ($119.99) by Zero Foxtrot, the Diamond Quilted Bomber Hoodie ($199) by Patagonia, the Woobie Hoodie ($159.99) by Woobie Official, or the Technical Woobie ($349.47) by First Spear. And while many more inexpensive woobie-style jackets do exist, ultimately they lack the design, materials, and features found in the Operatus. So, among its peers, the Operatus was at an appropriate (or average) price point to the consumer for what is included in the jacket’s lightweight design and features.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): From a comfort aspect, the fabric of the Operatus resembled a military jacket liner or “woobie” blanket very closely, so that was something that many veterans will immediately find appealing. As such, it had a very flexible, soft texture that maintained a comfortable core temperature for the moderate weather of Missouri’s fall mornings (around the 36-degree range with light moisture). It is unlikely Operatus would maintain a warmer core temperature for longer durations in colder winter weather (snow/wind) without the inclusion of an additional outer layer/shell/jacket. VIKTOS has no current method for integrating the Operatus (as an inner shell jacket) to any of its outer jackets (like the military’s ECWCS) but that is something VIKTOS may want to consider in developing for future jacket designs to be integrated between inner and outer layers. This enables jackets to be either stand-alone or part of a layered approach. But for the more typical fall-like weather, the Operatus performed and retained heat well—so much to the point that after various drills sweat became a concern. The arm length and chest ran true-to-fit (for the average torso), so the arms or larger chest held a good level of suitable space – while the elastic arm cuff stopped appropriately at the wrist bone. Otherwise the YKK zippers all moved smoothly and did not cross-feed or bind. Lastly, the higher collar and hoodie did a good job at protecting exposed skin and prevented chafe from wind, slings, or other accessories, though would have been more ideal had the hood been removable or stowable while not in use.
• Durability – Average (3/5): The durability of the Operatus ran at an appropriate (or average) level for its thinner polyester fabric, with the insulated material adding a measurable level of thickness in overall volume, and straight-line stitching along all edges were properly tapered. Overall it was consistent to other survival-blanket (a.k.a. ‘woobie’) type clothing or products. It was noted that the front lower pocket had no zippers to secure them (or contents). In contrast, the Gunvent zippers were of average size and more robust with double-line reinforcement stitching that reflected its intended purpose for use on the range. The interior itself did not snag nor tear on equipment or gear.
• Functionality – Average (3/5): From a functional aspect (as a moderate cold weather jacket) the Operatus performed as intended, keeping the upper torso warm despite the fall temperatures and/or moisture. Light rain and moisture did bead and roll off the exterior, although it is likely that under heavy rain the material of the Operatus (like most fabrics) would eventually become saturated along the front zipper first as it was not rubberized. This was of benefit on cold and wet range mornings in the fall where the weather can fluctuate readily. One notable function of the Operatus was the Gunvent zippers on either side that allowed the user to continue wearing the jacket while providing access to a sidearm and mag pouches. This made the Operatus on the range adaptable and comfortable, while retaining easy side access to an OWB sidearm (some bunching of material at the back was due to the overall bulk/configuration of the range belt itself). However, one observed functional limitation of the Gunvent on the Operatus was the zipper at the elastic cuff lacked the rigidity to manipulate the zipper one-handed—so if used the end-user had to open the zipper with both hands prior to taking the range, and this was not something that could be done on the fly (such as with a CCW jacket). The two front hand pockets were useful for daily wear use, but with the advent of a plate carrier over the jacket (and/or Gunvent open) it severely limited access/use of the pockets. A recommendation for VIKTOS here would be to make additional accessory pockets higher up on the chest or sleeve for practical use.
• Weight – Good (4/5): The weight of cold-weather outerwear varies wildly, often attributed to a combination of materials, layers, design and hardware. The Operatus Camo Jacket weighed in 9.0 ounces which, given its insulated design, resulted in a very comfortable and light weight on the upper torso that did not have an overall baggy or bulky wear. The treated material also ensured moisture from rain did not saturate the fabric immediately, and add excess weight. In contrast to the alternative jackets noted above; the Woobie Tanker Jacket (19.4 ounces) by Zero Foxtrot, the Diamond Quilted Bomber Hoodie (14.1 ounces) by Patagonia, the Woobie Hoodie (22.4 ounces) by Woobie Official, or the Technical Woobie (22.5 ounces) by First Spear all demonstrate that the Operatus Camo Jacket is at the lower end of weight in comparison (though by ounces), even if some have thicker insulation or differences in design, but still a very good light weight for the volume of material used and market of similar attire.

 Overall Rating – Above Average (17/25)

Product Link: https://www.viktos.com/collections/outerwear/products/operatus-camo-jacket

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via High Ground Media, LLC, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.

Released in early 2018, the SPARK Marker Light from Unity Tactical offers the end-user a simple and effective marking beacon to identify friendly positions, equipment, or objectives.

With a flexible, translucent outer silicone shell—the roughly 1.65” square SPARK is a small personal identification marker that utilizes a simple 1-button, 3-function program to cycle through a continual LOW, HIGH, and Intermittent (Blink).

The base of the SPARK comes layered in hook-and-loop for ease of attachment to corresponding panels on equipment, helmets, or other equipment. Included with the SPARK is an adhesive backing of hook-and-loop (male) that allows the end-user to still attach the SPARK to a surface if no hook-and-loop material is available.

Powering the SPARK is a non-replaceable/non-rechargeable battery that provides 200+ hours of continual run-time (on LOW) to the enclosed LED emitter.

The SPARK is available in Green (featured), Red, Blue, White, and Infrared.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Excellent (5/5): With its list price of $18, the SPARK is an inexpensive PID marker in a market otherwise dominated by robust and professional devices easily costing over $100. The SPARK’s inexpensive materials, and practical approach allow it to come in at a much lower price point that is ideal for professionals and civilians alike. Comparative PID markers to the SPARK include the V-Light ($44.75) from S&S Precision, the MS-2000 (M2) LED Strobe Marking Light ($169) from ACR Artex, the VIP IR Marking Light ($180) from Adventure Lights, and the HEL-STAR 6 ($205) from Core Survival. While these alternatives are designed with more robust housing and components, the SPARK is still at an excellent and cost-affordable price point in comparison to the current market of PID marking lights.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): The SPARK was made from a soft, pliable silicon-based material that gave the semi-transparent housing a good overall comfort and the flexibility needed when articulating the ON/OFF button. The base was more rigid to affix on a helmet or other surface, but still had some flexibility to accommodate for the curvature of a helmet’s exterior. The SPARK also had a tangible sensation to the ON/OFF button so the end-user will be able to both visually and tactically feel the function switch. Otherwise the SPARK was not cumbersome nor bulky while mounted on a helmet and was not noticeable in any aspect.
• Durability – Average (3/5): From a durability aspect, the SPARK yielded an appropriate (or average) level of durability for its size and materials. The pliable silicon shell gave the PID marker the necessary level of flex to withstand the impacts of being dropped 10 times from an approximate height of 6’ without breakage or failure to the light, and only minimal surface marring due to contact with the concrete. The SPARK also withstood 30 minutes of immersion without any evidence of saturation or moisture penetration into the interior. It would be unlikely that the SPARK would withstand more extreme usage found in professional applications where an impact certification may be needed—if only because that is likely outside of the context in which the SPARK was designed.
• Functionality – Average (3/5): Functionally the SPARK was simplistic in both design and intent, with a single button to cycle through the non-programmable, three-function setting. The LOW/HIGH settings will allow individuals to find a comfortable setting in low-light conditions or when using night vision devices. Moreover, the HIGH setting is beneficial as a marking element to barricades or barriers at night so that shooters will know where an obstacle or barricade may be positioned. The Intermittent setting was beneficial to utilize the SPARK over extended periods without detrimental impact to the power source. Perhaps the greatest limitation to the overall function of the SPARK is the power source itself, with it being non-rechargeable or replaceable when expended. Thus, once the battery runs out, the end-user has no option other than direct replacement. It would perhaps be a recommendation to Unity Tactical to consider a USB rechargeable power source or something similar. Even if it were to limit the lifespan of the product to 3-4 recharges it would still make the SPARK a desirable product in contrast to the current market that utilize CR123 power sources and can be replaced.
• Weight – Excellent (5/5): Coming in at just 0.75 ounces, the SPARK was not noticeable on the helmet, and thus neither off-balancing or bulky. Indeed, the SPARK had a lower profile than nearly all other PID markers available on the current market. This was beneficial in ensuring the SPARK did not inadvertently peel off when coming into incidental contact with brush or other surfaces. In contrast, the V-Light (0.8 ounces) from S&S Precision, the MS-2000 (M2) LED Strobe Marking Light (4.0 ounces) from ACR Artex, the VIP IR Marking Light (3.9 ounces) from Adventure Lights, and the HEL-STAR 6 (2.8 ounces) from Core Survival all demonstrate just how demure and lightweight the SPARK is in comparison. Thus, for its design and materials, the SPARK is at an excellent weight for its intended usage.

Overall Rating – Good (20/25)

Product Link: https://www.unitytactical.com/product/spark-marker-light-2/

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via High Ground Media, LLC, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.