Buffalo Armory is led by a retired U.S. Army Major General with a long career of pushing for better equipment for those on the front line. Under his leadership, the company has become the leading steel armor manufacturer in the country, backed by multiple patents for its induction heat-treatment process. Their goal has always been the same: create an advanced, high-performance, low-drag SAPI plate. They are the only manufacturer able to produce a true 650 Brinell hardness steel plate with a real curve, combining strength, durability, and wearability in a way no one steel body armor manufacturer has matched. That capability is why we chose to partner with them.
The Buffalo Armory STAR Multi-Curve Plate is crafted to set a new standard in ballistic protection and comfort. Made from specialized armor-grade steel with a Brinell Hardness Number (BHN) of 650 ±5, this plate surpasses the durability of traditional abrasion-resistant (AR) steels. Lightweight, ergonomic, and built to perform under high-threat conditions, the Star Multi-Curve is ideal for law enforcement, military, and security professionals who demand the best.
Key Features:
- NIJ Certified: The STAR Star Multi-Curve is NIJ certified for proven ballistic performance under the industry’s most trusted testing protocol.
- Armor-Grade Steel Construction: Utilizing steel specifically formulated for ballistic protection, the STAR Multi-Curve delivers outstanding resistance against ballistic threats, surpassing the variable compositions of traditional AR steels.
- Advanced Ballistic Protection: Designed to effectively stop rifle rounds such as 7.62mm NATO and 5.56mm M855/SS109.
- Ergonomic Multi-Curve Design: Featuring a true multi-curve profile, these plates conform to the body's natural shape, reducing felt weight and ensuring enhanced comfort and mobility during extended wear.
- Lightweight Construction: Despite its superior hardness, the STAR Multi-Curve maintains a lightweight profile at only 7lbs, reducing fatigue without compromising protection.
- Durable Polyurea Coating: Each plate comes standard with a robust polyurea coating, providing resistance against environmental factors and minor spall mitigation.
- Enhanced Spall Liner Option: For optimal protection, we recommend adding our advanced spall liner, designed to effectively contain projectile fragments upon impact, further safeguarding the wearer.
- 10-Year Warranty: Backed by a decade-long warranty, ensuring long-term reliability and performance.

Specifications:
- Material: Specialized armor-grade steel (BHN 650 ±5)
- Protection Level: Advanced ballistic protection
- Design: Multi-curve for ergonomic fit
- Coating: Standard polyurea with optional spall liner
- Weight: 7lbs; optimized for lightweight performance
- Thickness: Engineered for a slim profile
Rating & Testing
Special Threat Protection:
7.62mm x 51mm M80 NATO (.308) at 2,780 ft/s
5.56mm x 45mm M855/SS109 (Green Tip) at 3,000 ft/s
5.56mm x 45mm M193 up to 3,000 ft/s
7.62mm x 39mm 123 gr steel core at 2,400 ft/s
All lesser shotgun and handgun rounds
This armor plate is purpose-built for professionals who require high-level protection against specific rifle rounds and other ballistic threats.
NIJ Level III STANDARD TEST ROUNDS
| Round | Velocity (ft/s) |
|---|---|
| 7.62×51mm M80 FMJ | ~2,780 ft/s |
| 7.62×39mm MSC (Type 56 Steel Jacketed Core) | ~2,400 ft/s |
| 5.56×45mm M193 FMJ | ~3,250 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)Enhanced Protection with Optional Spall Liner
For maximum safety, consider adding our advanced spall liner, designed to contain projectile fragments upon impact. The spall liner significantly enhances protection, making it ideal for high-risk environments where maximum defense is essential.
Why Choose the STAR Multi-Curve Armor Plate?
Ultimate Comfort and Protection
The multi-curve design not only conforms to your body, reducing fatigue but also enhances your ability to move freely while staying protected.
Advanced Ballistic Material
Made with a unique armor-grade steel formula, the STAR Multi-Curve provides consistent performance beyond that of traditional AR steels.
Built for High-Threat Situations
Tested and rated for multi-threat defense against rifle rounds, this plate is ideal for professionals in military, law enforcement, or private security.
10-Year Warranty for Peace of Mind
Backed by a robust 10-year warranty, you can trust the STAR Multi-Curve to provide reliable protection for years to come.
Comparison: STAR Multi-Curve vs. Standard AR Steel Plates
| Feature | STAR Multi-Curve Armor Plate | Standard AR Steel Plate |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Specialized Armor-Grade Steel | Standard Abrasion-Resistant Steel |
| Brinell Hardness Number | 650 ±5 | 500-550 |
| Design | Multi-Curve for Comfort | Single-Curve or Flat |
| Weight | 7lbs | Heavier |
| Thickness | 5mm (0.19 inches) | 6.35mm (0.25 inches) |
| Warranty | 10-Year Warranty | 5-Year Warranty |
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.