Backpack Armor, Explained in 2-Minutes
• A thin (≈0.22"), flexible panel that rides in the bag you already carry.
• Tested to Level IIIA / HG2: protection against most common handguns.
• 70+ exact-fit sizes (plus universal). TSA-approved for travel.
• Ready to armor up? Match Your Bag.
What Is Backpack Armor?
Backpack armor is a soft, flexible ballistic panel that drops into your everyday bag (think backpack, briefcase, purse, or range bag). Ours are built with USA-made ballistic materials, sealed to keep out moisture, and wrapped in rugged 500D CORDURA® for daily wear and tear. The result is a thin, discreet layer of protection that fits the way you already move.
Want a deeper dive into backpack armor? Read our full guide Do Bulletproof Backpacks Work.
What IIIA / HG2 actually stops
Panels tested to Level IIIA (HG2 in the new NIJ 07 standard) are designed to stop common handgun threats, including 9mm, .40, .45, and .44 Magnum, plus 12-gauge buckshot and slugs. Some specialty pistol loads (e.g., Liberty Civil Defense 9mm, FN 5.7×28 SS197SR) are also within scope for quality IIIA/HG2 panels.
Looking for rifle protection? Consider one of our rifle-rated backpack plates (RF1) for that use case.
How to use it in real life
- Moving away: Keep the bag on your back to cover the spine and vitals while you create distance.
- Hiding / seated: Place the bag between you and the line of fire as a barrier.
- Standing / guiding family: Hold the bag over the chest while directing loved ones to cover.
Bottom line: armor isn’t invincibility. It buys time to move, think, and act.
If you conceal carry: A sidearm can level the field, but armor tilts it in your favor, providing protection in the moments before you can respond and while you move.
Parents: lighter, smaller panels make it practical for students without changing routines.
Quick Facts About Backpack Armor
- Many panels weigh less than a bottle of water.
- You don’t have to change your routine; the armor rides in what you already carry.
- TSA-approved for air travel (final decisions rest with the officer at the checkpoint).
- Built with the same ballistic materials used in duty-grade vests, made in the USA.
- CORDURA® outer + waterproof-sealed core for daily durability.
- Offered in 70+ sizes, including exact fits for Vertx, Viktos, Eberlestock, and universal options.
Fit = Function
Protection only helps if the panel actually covers the area it’s supposed to. Start by identifying your bag model; if it’s a known fit (Vertx, Viktos, Eberlestock), choose the exact insert. For non-branded bags, the universal 10×15 is a strong starting point for many daypacks. When in doubt, measure the internal sleeve and select the nearest panel size.
Want a deeper dive into armor levels? Read our Understanding Body Armor Ratings guide here.
FAQs
Is backpack armor NIJ-certified?
NIJ certifications apply only to complete vest systems, not standalone backpack panels. Our inserts are tested to the Level IIIA / HG2 ballistic standard and use the same USA-made materials as our police NIJ-certified vests.
Is it stab-rated?
Ballistic fibers naturally resist cuts, but backpack inserts are not tested or rated to the NIJ 0115 stab standard. Use dedicated stab material if edged-weapon protection is required.
Is it legal and can I fly with it?
Body armor is legal for law-abiding citizens in most places; always check local rules. Panels are TSA-approved for checked or carry-on bags, with final discretion at the checkpoint.
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