Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 Level III Steel Plates Armor Kit Review

First Impressions of Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 Level III Steel Plates Armor Kit

In a world that increasingly demands preparedness, the Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 Level III Steel Plates Armor Kit emerges as a practical and economical solution for home defense and active shooter situations. This kit combines the robust Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 plate carrier with two AR1000 Level III hard armor plates, offering rifle-rated protection without breaking the bank. As someone with over a decade of experience in the tactical gear realm, I was eager to assess its real-world capabilities and determine if it lives up to its promise of reliable protection.

I’ve always prioritized preparedness, both for myself and my family. The rising threat of active shooter scenarios and the increasing need for home defense solutions led me to seek a reliable and affordable armor kit. I needed something that offered proven protection without sacrificing mobility and comfort.

Upon unboxing, the kit immediately impressed me with its no-nonsense design. The Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 plate carrier felt sturdy and well-constructed, made from what appeared to be durable 500 denier Nylon. The AR1000 steel plates, while undeniably heavy, exuded a sense of solid protection. Compared to more expensive ceramic plate options, the steel plates felt like a robust, if heavier, alternative. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; the kit seemed like a solid foundation for personal protection.

Compared to similarly priced plate carriers from Condor or cheaper AR500 steel plate sets, the Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 Level III Steel Plates Armor Kit stood out due to its NIJ certification and the inclusion of a carrier bag. I chose this kit over others because of Shellback Tactical’s reputation for quality and the specified threat protection against M855 greentip rounds, a common concern. It struck a balance between affordability, protection, and essential features.

I was initially excited by the prospect of having a readily available and reliable armor kit for home defense. However, I was also realistic about the limitations of steel plates, particularly their weight and potential for spalling. The initial impression was that this was a serious piece of gear, designed for serious situations.

Real-World Testing: Putting Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 Level III Steel Plates Armor Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 Level III Steel Plates Armor Kit primarily at a private shooting range and during force-on-force training exercises with my local tactical response team. The range provided a controlled environment to assess the fit, comfort, and mobility of the carrier, while the training exercises simulated real-world scenarios where the armor might be deployed. Conditions varied from sunny and dry to light rain, offering a glimpse into the kit’s performance under different weather conditions.

The initial experience highlighted both the strengths and weaknesses of the kit. The carrier was relatively easy to adjust and conformed well to my body, but the weight of the steel plates was immediately noticeable. After about an hour of movement and drills, I began to feel the strain on my shoulders and back. Despite the integrated padded shoulder pads, prolonged use was fatiguing. There were no immediate failures, but the weight was a persistent factor.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of intermittent use, including multiple range sessions and training scenarios, the Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 Level III Steel Plates Armor Kit has held up reasonably well. The 500 denier Nylon carrier shows no significant signs of wear and tear, and the stitching remains intact. However, the Rhino extreme 11-50 FR coating on the steel plates has begun to show minor scratches and abrasions from handling and storage.

Maintenance is straightforward; the carrier can be wiped down with a damp cloth, and the steel plates require occasional cleaning to remove any surface rust. Compared to my previous experience with lighter, ceramic plate carriers, the Shellback Tactical kit is undeniably more durable but significantly less comfortable for extended periods. It’s a trade-off between ruggedness and wearability.

Breaking Down the Features of Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 Level III Steel Plates Armor Kit

Specifications

The Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 Level III Steel Plates Armor Kit boasts the following specifications:

• Plate Carrier: Constructed of durable 500 denier Nylon. Holds 10 x 12 shooter cut plates.
• Armor Plates: Constructed from AR1000 Ultra High Hardness Steel (UHH). NIJ Level III Threat Protection.
• Weight: 6.1 lbs per plate.
• Dimensions: 10″ W x 12″ L x .35″D.
• Cut: Shooters Cut.
• Curve: Single Curve.
• Coating: Rhino extreme 11-50 FR.
• Pouch Configuration: Two integrated kangaroo M4 magazine pouches and one integrated tourniquet pouch.

These specifications directly impact the performance and user experience. The AR1000 steel and NIJ Level III rating provide confidence in its protective capabilities against common rifle threats. The 6.1 lbs per plate translates to a total weight of over 12 lbs for the plates alone, plus the weight of the carrier, making it a substantial load. The shooters cut is intended to improve mobility, but the single curve design offers less ergonomic comfort compared to multi-curve options.

Performance & Functionality

The Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 Level III Steel Plates Armor Kit performs its primary job of providing ballistic protection effectively. The AR1000 steel plates are certified to stop a range of threats, including 5.56 x 45mm M855/SS109 and 7.62 x 51mm M80 rounds. The integrated magazine pouches and tourniquet pouch are functional and readily accessible, enhancing the kit’s usability in a tactical situation.

A notable strength is the robust protection offered by the steel plates at an affordable price. The main weakness is the weight and discomfort associated with prolonged wear, which can limit mobility and endurance. It meets expectations for ballistic protection but falls short in terms of comfort and ergonomics compared to more expensive options.

Design & Ergonomics

The Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 Level III Steel Plates Armor Kit features a straightforward, utilitarian design. The build quality is solid, with durable materials and reinforced stitching in high-stress areas. The carrier is adjustable to fit a wide range of body sizes, but the single-curve steel plates offer limited ergonomic comfort.

There is a slight learning curve associated with adjusting the carrier and becoming accustomed to the weight and bulk of the armor. However, the integrated pouches and intuitive design make it relatively user-friendly once properly fitted.

Durability & Maintenance

The Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 Level III Steel Plates Armor Kit is built to last. The steel plates are highly resistant to damage, and the 500 denier Nylon carrier is durable enough to withstand rough handling. With proper care and maintenance, this kit should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and inspection for wear and tear. The Rhino extreme 11-50 FR coating on the plates is designed to resist corrosion, but regular cleaning is still recommended to prevent rust.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 Level III Steel Plates Armor Kit comes with the essential accessories needed for basic operation, including the plate carrier and the steel armor plates. The carrier features MOLLE webbing for attaching additional pouches and accessories.

The kit is compatible with a wide range of standard MOLLE-compatible accessories from various brands. Users can customize the kit to suit their specific needs by adding magazine pouches, medical kits, or communication devices.

Pros and Cons of Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 Level III Steel Plates Armor Kit

Who Should Buy Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 Level III Steel Plates Armor Kit?

This kit is perfect for: budget-conscious individuals seeking rifle-rated protection, home defense enthusiasts, security personnel, and those preparing for active shooter scenarios. It suits those who prioritize protection over comfort and are willing to accept the weight penalty of steel plates.

This kit may not be ideal for: law enforcement officers or military personnel requiring maximum mobility and comfort during extended operations. Those with back or shoulder problems may also find the weight prohibitive.

Must-have accessories or modifications: trauma pads to mitigate backface deformation, upgraded shoulder pads for improved comfort, and additional MOLLE-compatible pouches for specific mission requirements.

Conclusion on Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 Level III Steel Plates Armor Kit

The Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 Level III Steel Plates Armor Kit offers a compelling value proposition for those seeking reliable rifle-rated protection without breaking the bank. While the weight and comfort limitations of steel plates are undeniable, the kit provides a durable and effective solution for home defense and active shooter preparedness.

The price is justified given the level of protection offered and the inclusion of essential features like integrated pouches and a carrier bag. I would personally recommend this kit to individuals who prioritize protection and preparedness on a budget.

Ultimately, the Shellback Tactical Defender 2.0 Level III Steel Plates Armor Kit is a practical and effective solution for those seeking affordable rifle-rated protection. If you’re looking for a reliable armor kit for home defense or active shooter preparedness, this is a solid option. Invest in your safety today.