Backpack-sized, rifle-rated, ready to carry.
Get practical rifle protection that rides quietly in your bag. Sized for the vast majority of backpacks and bag manufacturers who build for 15" laptops, this 10"x15" UHMWPE insert is thinner and lighter than our previous model, built for everyday carry when AR/AK threats are your concern, without adding bulk.
Designed specifically to stop the most common rifle threats used in violent crimes, 5.56×45 M193 (AR-type) and 7.62×39 MSC (AK-type), this plate gives practical, affordable protection for families, teachers, travelers, and commuters. It slips into a laptop pocket and stays out of the way until you need it.
It’s a purpose-built special-threat solution: slim profile, low weight, and multi-hit capable, tuned for practicality.
QUICK INFO
- What it is: A 10"x15" rifle-rated backpack armor insert that fits standard bookbags (like the Vertx Ready Pack).
- What it stops: Special-threat tuned around the most common rifle threats: 5.56×45 M193 and 7.62×39 MSC.
- What it doesn’t: Not designed for M855/SS109 or 7.62×51 M80 Ball.
Special Threat Note
This plate is tuned for the rifle calibers most commonly encountered in criminal shootings where a rifle is used. According to NIJ’s Criminal Justice Testing and Evaluation Consortium survey, 5.56mm / .223 accounted for 39.3% of rifles in criminal use, and 7.62×39mm for 30.3%. Combined, these two calibers represent nearly 70% of the most common rifle threats. This plate was engineered specifically with those AR- and AK-type rounds in mind. *Please note: this plate is not designed for use against M855.
Key features
- Backpack-friendly rifle protection: Flat, tapered-top 10"x15" profile slips into the laptop compartment of standard backpacks.
- Lightweight for all-day carry: 3.6 lbs to minimize load.
- Slim, low-bulk build: 16 mm (0.63"), slimmer than many laptops.
- Special-threat tuned: Optimized for 5.56 M193 and 7.62×39 MSC (AR/AK-type threats).
- Multi-hit capable: Engineered to handle repeated impacts.
- Durable construction: UHMWPE multi-layer composite with waterproof polyurea outer for longevity.
- Carry-with-confidence coverage: 7-year warranty + Incident Guarantee (replace at no cost with police report if it saves your life).
- Travel-friendly: TSA approved (always follow airline and local regulations).
Tech specs
- Size: 10" x 15" (tapered top)
- Weight: 3.6 lbs
- Thickness: 16 mm (0.63")
- Construction: UHMWPE multi-layer composite
- Shape/Curve: Flat plate, tapered top for backpack fit and comfort
Rating & Testing
TESTED ROUNDS
| Round | Velocity (ft/s) |
|---|---|
| 7.62×39 MSC | ~2,415 ft/s |
| 5.56×45 M193 | ~3,250 ft/s |
To learn more about the NIJ body armor standards, read our Understanding Body Armor Ratings article.
* This plate is not NIJ certified. It was purpose-built as a Special Threat plate and falls outside the NIJ standards for certification. It has not been tested against the NIJ RF1 M80 Ball requirement, which is part of the full RF1 standard. Instead, this plate is optimized to defeat the AR- and AK-type rounds most often encountered in violent crimes and school shootings, offering a thinner and lighter option than a full RF1 plate.
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)FAQs on the Special Threat Backpack Insert
Will this stop 5.56 and 7.62×39?
Yes, this insert is special-threat tuned for 5.56×45 M193 and 7.62×39 MSC, the two most common rifle calibers in criminal use. It’s multi-hit capable and designed for real-world carry.
Does it stop M855 “green tip” or M80 Ball?
No. This model is not designed for M855/SS109, and it does not claim performance against 7.62×51 M80 Ball. If M80 coverage is a priority, consider our Universal Fit Level III+ insert.
Will it fit my backpack?
The 10"x15" flat, tapered-top profile is sized for most standard bookbags, like the Vertx Ready Pack. If your bag has a 15" laptop compartment, you’re very likely covered.
Is it NIJ certified?
No. It’s not NIJ certified because it’s a special-threat plate optimized for specific AR/AK rounds to keep weight and thickness down.
How should I position it in the bag?
Place it in the laptop pocket with the tapered top upward so it sits high and stable against your back panel for comfort.
Care & storage tips?
Wipe clean with a damp cloth; avoid harsh solvents. Do not leave in a hot trunk for prolonged periods, as extreme heat can degrade materials over time.
Can I fly with it?
Yes, it's TSA approved. Always follow airline guidance and local laws at your destination.
Warranty and Incident Guarantee?
This insert carries a 7-year warranty. If it’s used to save your life, submit an official police report and we’ll replace it at no cost under our Incident Guarantee.
Shipping
- Quick fulfillment! All in stock orders leave our facility within 1-3 Business Days
- Connecticut & New York shipping restrictions
- No international shipping at this time
- 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.
