Minimal footprint. Maximum readiness.
A compact, low-profile 18L EDC sling now bundled with a custom-fit Level IIIA insert for discreet handgun protection.
The Gamut 18L blends a clean exterior with a Rapid Access Pull, a dedicated CCW compartment with large BAP strap, and sling-specific comfort that moves smoothly from commute to range to travel.
What’s Included
- Vertx Gamut 18L Sling — Colors: Black, Depth Charge, Evergreen (select your color)
- Custom-Fit Level IIIA Insert — 9.5" × 15", 0.22" thick, 1.2 lb
Note: The ballistic panel installs in seconds and is purpose-built for the Gamut 18L Sling.
Why The Gamut 18L Sling Bundle
- Low-profile carry, real protection: Keep your EDC streamlined while adding Level IIIA coverage inside the sling.
- Faster access, fewer steps: Rapid Access Pull plus a CCW compartment with large BAP strap for a secure, modular setup.
- Organized and travel-ready: Interior zip pocket, stacked gear slots, mesh/elastic, stretch loop, and a padded back panel with luggage pass-through.
- Durable details: Snag-resistant YKK® zippers, reinforced grab handle, carabiner-ready webbing, and a tuckable gear sling with hidden pocket.
- Bundle value: Save 10% compared to purchasing the bag and insert separately.
Features & Specs of the Ballistic Panel
- Rating: Level IIIA / HG2 (most common handgun threats)
- Thickness: 0.22"
- Weight: 1.2 lb
- Panel Size: 9.5" × 15"
- Construction: USA-made para-aramid ballistic package sealed in waterproof ripstop, protected by 500 Denier CORDURA®
- Made in the USA and Berry Amendment compliant
- Soft armor insert is TSA-Approved
- Custom-fit for the Vertx Gamut 18L Sling
- 5 year warranty
Features & Specs of the Gamut 18L Sling
- Rapid access, your way: Movable Rapid Access Pull for quick, ambidextrous entry.
- Purpose-built CCW: Dedicated CCW compartment with a large BAP strap for secure, custom setup.
- EDC organization: Zip pocket, stacked gear slots, mesh/elastic, and stretch loop keep tools visible and under control.
- Travel friendly: Padded back panel with luggage pass-through for smoother airport and commute transitions.
- Durability details: Snag-resistant YKK® zippers, reinforced grab handle, and carabiner-ready webbing.
- Sling comfort: Tuckable gear sling with hidden sling pocket for streamlined, snag-free carry.
- Comms ready: Hydration or comms pass-throughs for tidy tube/cable routing.
Specifications
Gamut 18L Sling:
- Capacity: 18L
- Weight: 1.14 lb
- Outer Dimensions: 17.5" H × 11.5" W × 8" D
- CCW Compartment: 16" H × 10" W (≈ 17" diagonal)
- Materials: Water-resistant exterior with snag-resistant YKK® zippers
- Colors stocked: Black, Depth Charge, Evergreen
Ballistic Insert:
- Panel Size: 9.5" × 15"
- Thickness: 0.22"
- Weight: 1.2 lb
- Construction: USA-made para-aramid core; 500D CORDURA® outer
- Rating: Level IIIA / HG2 (most commong handgun threats)
- Warranty: 5 years
- TSA: Approved
Rating & Testing
NIJ STANDARD TESTED ROUNDS
| Round | Velocity (ft/s) |
|---|---|
| 9mm FMJ RN | ~1,470 ft/s |
| .44 Magnum SJHP | ~1,430 ft/s |
In addition to stopping penetration, the armor must limit backface deformation to 44mm to reduce blunt force trauma.
To learn more about the NIJ body armor standards, read our Understanding Body Armor Ratings article.
OFFICIAL TEST REPORT
Want to see the full test report? Download the test document below:
*Note: In the penetration column, "P" stands for partial penetration, meaning the bullet was captured by the armor and did not fully pass through. This is a successful result. A failure would be marked as "C" or "CP" for complete penetration, indicating the bullet fully passed through the armor.
View Full Test Report (PDF)FAQ
Is the armor included?
Yes. This is a bundle, so you receive the Vertx Gamut 18L Sling and the custom-fit Level IIIA insert sized for this bag.
Will it fit my CCW setup?
The dedicated CCW compartment measures 16" × 10" (≈ 17" diagonal) and includes a large BAP strap. Compare your holster/attachment footprint to these dimensions.
Is the sling ambidextrous?
Yes. The Rapid Access Pull and sling layout support fast, left- or right-handed access with minimal adjustment.
Is the armor rifle-rated?
No. The included insert is Level IIIA / HG2 for most common handgun threats. For rifle threats, use rifle-rated hard plates and an appropriate carrier.
Is it good for travel?
Yes. The padded back panel has a luggage pass-through. The soft armor insert is TSA-Approved; always follow current TSA and local regulations.
Need more capacity?
Check out the Armored Vertx Gamut 22L Sling Bundle.
Shipping
- Quick fulfillment! All in stock orders leave our facility within 1–3 Business Days
- No international shipping at this time
- Body Armor is legal to own in all 50 states (but we cannot ship to the state of Connecticut or New York)
- Easy returns and exchange policy
Law Enforcement / First Responder / Military discount available
Please see TERMS & CONDITIONS for additional details regarding lead time, shipping, warranty & return policy.
The NIJ 0101.07 Standard calls for the following test rounds:
| Round | Velocity (ft/s) |
|---|---|
| 9mm FMJ RN | ~1,470 ft/s |
| .44 Magnum SJHP | ~1,430 ft/s |
In addition to stopping penetration, the armor must limit backface deformation to 44mm to reduce blunt force trauma.
To learn more about the NIJ body armor standards, read our Understanding Body Armor Ratings article.
Want to see the full test report? View the test document below:
*Note: In the penetration column, "P" stands for partial penetration, meaning the bullet was captured by the armor and did not fully pass through. This is a successful result. A failure would be marked as "C" or "CP" for complete penetration, indicating the bullet fully passed through the armor.
What's Inside Premier Backpack Armor?
For years, we've partnered with Vertx to provide custom-fit ballistic inserts for each of their bags and packs. Inside every Premier Body Armor backpack insert, you’ll find the same advanced ballistic material used in our NIJ-certified law enforcement vests.
Multiple layers of proprietary ballistic fibers are carefully woven to absorb and disperse impact, much like a spiderweb catching its prey, while remaining exceptionally lightweight and flexible.
A rugged Cordura cover then protects these ballistic layers from everyday wear and tear, ensuring your backpack insert can outlast the bag itself and provide lasting peace of mind.
Let's put it to the test
FAQs: Backpack Armor
We recommend measuring the width and height of your bag's main compartment or laptop sleeve, then selecting the insert dimensions that best match.
Our inserts come in multiple sizes to fit a wide range of bags, so whether you’re using a purse, briefcase, or school backpack, you can be sure to find a secure, snug fit.
Premier Body Armor has designed custom-fit inserts for these Vertx bags:
- Gamut Sling (18L & 22L)
- Gamut Pack (22L, 26L, & 32L)
- Siege Pack & Siege Sling
- Ghost Pack & Ghost Sling
- Everyday Fanny Pack (2.0 & 2.1)
- Everyday Fanny Pack+
- Any Day Backpack
- Gamut (Gen 2 & Gen 3)
- Commuter Sling (Gen 2 & Gen 3)
- Ready Pack (Gen 2 & Gen 3)
- Ready Pack X
- Transit Sling
- SOCP Tactical Fanny Pack
- Tourist Sling
- Commuter Sling XL 2.0
- Basecamp
- Navigator
- MP Waist Pack
- Long Walks 28L & 15L
- EDC Essential Sling
- VTAC Rifle Scabbard & Pistol Scabbard
Body armor is legal to own in all 50 states; there are no special permits or licenses needed. However, we cannot ship to Connecticut or New York due to state laws and restrictions.
If you’re unsure about the laws in your specific region, we encourage you to review local guidelines or consult a legal professional.
Use a damp cloth or mild soap to spot-clean the Cordura® exterior. Avoid submerging the entire panel in water or using harsh chemicals, as this could compromise the ballistic materials.
If your panel comes in contact with excessive moisture or other substances, allow it to air-dry completely before re-inserting into your bag.
No, our backpack inserts are made with non-metal materials and are TSA approved, so you shouldn't have any issues during standard airport screenings. Always check with official TSA guidance and your airline’s policies for the latest information on traveling with body armor.
Vertx Ghost
Daily Carry
Law Enforcement / First Responder / Military discount available
Please see TERMS & CONDITIONS for additional details regarding lead time, shipping, warranty & return policy.