What is the difference between Sapi and Esapi plates?

When people search for information about bulletproof vests and body armor, they may encounter terms like trauma plate, ballistic plate, or ballistic panel. In reality, these three terms are the same. SAPI means “small arms protective inserts”, while ESAPI pertains to “enhanced SAPI” or ceramic plate inserts.

What does SAPI mean in armor?

Small Arms Protective Insert
The Small Arms Protective Insert (SAPI) is a ceramic trauma plate used by the United States Armed Forces. It was first used in the Interceptor Body Armor, a ballistic vest. To protect against higher-velocity rifle rounds, SAPI plates are needed.

What does SAPI cut mean?

What Are SAPI Cut Inserts? Initially designed by military engineers for use within the US armed forces, SAPI stands for Small Arms Protective Insert. When inserted into soft body armor, these plates are designed to halt smaller rounds such as a 5.56 NATO, at level III grade.

What will Esapi stop?

The ESAPI plates stops the following threats:

  • 7.62×51 NATO, M80 (level 3 0101.06)
  • 7.62×39 MSC, AK47.
  • 5.56×45 NATO, SS109 / M855 / M855A1.
  • 7.62×63 AP / . 30-06 Springfield (level 4 0101.06)

Are Esapi stand alone?

The highest level NIJ IV ballistic plate from PGD for plate carriers and body armor vests. Multi-curved and protective to the very edge of the plate, the level of comfort and protection of these is hard to beat.

What plates do the military use?

That’s why the U.S. military uses ceramic plates and Kevlar body armor. It not only protects troops but allows them enough mobility to do their jobs in a hostile environment.

Is Sapi cut the same as shooters cut?

What is the difference between Shooter’s Cut & SAPI/ESAPI cut? The SAPI/ESAPI cut is the more traditional body armor shape, often found in military armor systems. For comparison with a 8″x10″ plate, the area of the Shooter’s cut is about 2.22″ x 4.45″ and the area of the SAPI/ESAPI cut is 1.81″ x 2.61.”

What level plates does the military use?

Level III armor is normally used by military personnel and law enforcement officers. This body armor level is currently always hard and in the form of ballistic plates that can be inserted into vests or carriers.