RMA Armament

RMA Armament (rmadefense.com) is a veteran-owned, American-made body armor manufacturer based in Centerville, Iowa. Known as the "King of Armor," they produce NIJ-certified Level III, IIIA, and Level IV/RF3 ballistic plates, plate carriers, ballistic helmets, and tactical gear — all at surprisingly competitive prices. Whether you're in law enforcement, active military, or a prepared civilian, this guide covers everything you need to know before buying.

1. What Is RMA Armament? Brand Overview

The Story Behind the King of Armor

RMA Armament, Inc. — headquartered at 22800 Dewey Road, Centerville, Iowa 52544 — is one of America's most trusted names in personal ballistic protection. The company was founded in 2011 by Blake Waldrop, a decorated U.S. Marine (2001–2005) and sworn police officer (2007–2013). The name "RMA" carries deeply personal meaning: it stands for the initials of Blake's three daughters — Renee, Meghan, and Alexis — a reminder every single day of exactly who this armor is ultimately designed to protect.

Blake's motivation for starting the company was equally personal. After losing a fellow Marine in 2005, he became acutely aware of the critical role that reliable body armor plays in saving lives. When he transitioned into law enforcement, he strapped on armor daily and understood firsthand the gap between what was available on the market and what warfighters and officers actually needed: protection that was lighter, stronger, and more affordable. That gap became RMA's founding mission.

100% American-Made, From Raw Material to Finished Plate

What separates RMA Armament from the overwhelming majority of body armor brands is vertical integration. RMA owns and operates a 20,000 square-foot manufacturing facility in Centerville, Iowa, where every armor plate is produced from raw material to finished product — entirely on U.S. soil using 100% American-sourced materials. Their facility houses over-1,000-ton hydraulic presses that form the polyethylene core of their armor plates. This level of domestic control is not just a marketing talking point — it directly translates to tighter quality control, faster production cycles, and a supply chain that doesn't rely on foreign components.

This commitment stands in stark contrast to many competitors who may assemble products in the U.S. but source ceramics or backer materials overseas. When you buy an RMA plate, you are buying something that was conceived, designed, manufactured, and tested entirely in America.

Certifications & Credentials

RMA Armament doesn't just claim their armor is among the best — they back it with rigorous, third-party verified credentials:

• NIJ 0101.06 Certified: Level III (Model #1088) and Level IV (Model #1189)
• NIJ RF2 and RF3 Rated (updated ballistic threat standard)
• ITAR Registered (International Traffic in Arms Regulations)
• U.S. Patent: 14/054,260
• CAGE Code: 708P1
• DUNS: 078720225
• U.S. Trademark Registered: 4501218

Their customer base spans the full spectrum of the defense and security community: U.S. civilians, law enforcement agencies, U.S. military units, and U.S. allies worldwide. This breadth of customer trust is itself a testament to the quality and dependability of RMA's products.

The "King of Armor" Philosophy

RMA markets itself as the "King of Armor" — and they earn that title by consistently challenging the industry assumption that high-performance armor must be prohibitively expensive. Time and again, RMA has released products that deliver government-level protection at civilian-accessible prices. Their Generation 2 plates, for example, brought lightweight Level IV armor down from $999+ competitor pricing to under $350. That's not a discount — that's a structural re-engineering of the value proposition.

Blake Waldrop has been explicit about this philosophy: "Our bottom line is protecting Americans, not feeding a foreign holding company, a board of directors, or shareholders. We answer to Blake, a former Marine and LEO. We build for warfighters, law enforcement, and prepared American citizens."

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2. Top Products & Bestsellers

RMA Armament's product catalog spans four major categories: hard armor plates, soft armor, plate carriers, and ballistic helmets. Here's a detailed breakdown of their most important offerings.

Model 1155 Gen 2 — Level IV / RF3 Plate (Bestseller)

Price: $199.99 – $259.99 (depending on cut and size)

The 1155 is the product that built RMA's reputation. Widely considered the most affordable NIJ-certified Level IV plate on the American market, the Gen 2 version takes everything that made the original legendary and makes it better across every measurable dimension.

Key Specifications:

• Protection Level: Level IV / RF3 (defeats .30-06 M2AP armor-piercing rounds)
• Strike Face: 99.7% purity Alumina Oxide ceramic
• Backer: Polyethylene composite
• Weight: 6.6 lbs (Shooter's Cut, 10×12 nominal)
• Thickness: 0.9 inches
• Profile: Multi-curve (fits the natural contour of the body)
• Availability: Shooter's Cut (10×12) and SAPI Medium (9.5×12.5)
• Multi-hit rated: Yes

The Gen 2 1155 shaved significant weight off the Gen 1 design by incorporating next-generation Hypure 99.7% purity alumina oxide ceramics. The result is a plate that is both lighter and provides better multi-hit performance than many silicon carbide or boron carbide alternatives — materials that cost significantly more. This is why the 1155 remains the go-to recommendation for budget-conscious buyers who refuse to compromise on protection.

Who it's for: First-time body armor buyers, law enforcement officers on department budgets, prepared civilians, range safety officers, and anyone who wants maximum protection-per-dollar.

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🥈 Model 1165 Gen 2 — Lightest Level IV / RF3 Plate

Price: $249.99 – $349.99 (depending on cut and size)

If the 1155 is the value king, the 1165 Gen 2 is RMA's technological crown jewel. By pairing their Hypure alumina oxide ceramic strike face with a Dyneema® UHMWPE backer (a material previously found only in high-end military procurement), RMA managed to cut the weight and thickness of the 1155 by a dramatic margin without increasing the price into stratospheric territory.

Key Specifications:

• Protection Level: Level IV / RF3
• Strike Face: Hypure 99.7% Alumina Oxide ceramic
• Backer: Dyneema® UHMWPE
• Weight: 5.3 lbs (Shooter's Cut) / 6.3 lbs (SAPI Medium)
• Thickness: 0.7 inches
• Profile: Multi-curve
• Multi-hit rated: Yes

At just 5.3 lbs in the Shooter's Cut configuration, the 1165 Gen 2 delivers a weight profile previously found only in plates costing $800–$1,200+. Competitors using the same Dyneema backer technology routinely price similar plates at $999. RMA offers theirs for $349.99 — or less during promotional periods.

The 0.7-inch profile is equally impressive. This thin plate slides cleanly into minimalist carriers and allows mag pouches to lay flat without the awkward bulge common with thicker plates. For operators who prioritize mobility and concealment while still demanding rifle-rated protection, this is currently one of the best value propositions on the market.

Who it's for: Active-duty military, law enforcement on patrol, shooters who run heavy kits and want weight savings, and serious prepared citizens.

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Level IV Rift Armor Kit — Complete Protection Bundle

Price: Starting around $349.99–$499.99 (bundle pricing varies)

The Rift Kit packages RMA's armor plates with a purpose-built plate carrier into a complete protective system. Rather than piecing together a plate carrier separately, buyers get a tested, matched combination at a price that undercuts buying the components individually.

The included carrier is designed with MOLLE webbing for modular accessory attachment, ergonomic padding for all-day wearability, and a cummerbund system for side protection. Customer reviews frequently highlight the comfort fit and the surprisingly lightweight combined system.

Why it matters: Body armor is only as good as the system it's worn in. Plates that shift, carrier straps that dig, or incompatible combinations reduce both comfort and effectiveness. RMA's kit approach eliminates the guesswork.

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Ballistic Helmets

RMA carries a selection of ballistic helmets ranging from Level IIIA protection to specialized designs for tactical applications. Their helmets are NIJ-compliant, available in multiple cuts (high-cut, mid-cut, and full-cut), and are compatible with standard accessory rail systems. Pricing typically ranges from around $300–$700+ depending on the model and cut.

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Soft Armor — Level IIIA

For those who need concealable protection against handgun threats, RMA offers flexible Level IIIA soft armor panels and vests. These are lighter and more wearable for daily use than hard armor plates, making them popular with plainclothes officers, security professionals, and civilians seeking discreet protection.

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Plate Carriers & Tactical Gear

Beyond armor itself, RMA stocks a range of plate carriers from budget-friendly options to more tactical configurations, along with accessories including:

• Trauma pads (a highly recommended add-on with any plate purchase to reduce blunt trauma)
• Tactical belts and accessories
• Gas masks and respiratory protection
• MOLLE-compatible pouches and gear

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3. Seasonal Sales & Major Discount Events

RMA Armament runs predictable sale cycles tied to American holidays and events. If you can time your purchase, you can save anywhere from 10% to $100+ on a single order.

Memorial Day Sale

Without question, RMA's biggest annual sale event. Memorial Day holds special significance for a veteran-owned company, and RMA honors that with their most aggressive discounts of the year. Past Memorial Day promotions have included up to $50–$100 off specific plate bundles, discounted plate carriers, and free shipping tiers. Their 2026 "We the People" Memorial Day Sale, for example, featured $50 off the 1165 Gen 2 Level IV Plate. This is the sale to wait for if you're purchasing plates.

Fourth of July Sale

Independence Day typically brings another round of patriotic promotions. Historically, RMA has offered discounts in the 15–20% range on select products and bundle deals storewide. These sales often coincide with new product launches or limited-edition colorways.

Father's Day Sale

Father's Day has become a legitimate tactical gear gift occasion, and RMA participates with discounts of up to 20% off on plate carriers, helmets, and gear bundles. Tactical gear makes for an unusually practical and meaningful gift for many American families.

Black Friday & Cyber Monday

Like most e-commerce brands, RMA participates in the post-Thanksgiving sales rush. Black Friday and Cyber Monday promotions can yield some of the steepest percentage-off deals of the year, particularly on slower-moving inventory. These sales are short-lived, so acting quickly matters.

Veterans Day Sale

As a veteran-owned company, Veterans Day is an important occasion for RMA. They typically run promotions recognizing military service and extending appreciation discounts to active duty and veteran customers specifically.

"Steals & Deals" Section

Outside of major holidays, RMA maintains a permanent "Steals & Deals" section on their website (rmadefense.com) where discounted items — sometimes marked down by up to 30% — are listed on an ongoing basis. This section is worth checking regularly even outside of holiday periods.

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4. How to Save Money at RMA Armament

Getting the best price at RMA Armament doesn't require waiting for a major sale. Here are proven strategies to reduce your total spend:

1. Subscribe to the RMA Email Newsletter

This is the single highest-leverage action you can take. RMA's email list subscribers receive advance notice of sales, exclusive coupon codes, and early access to new product launches. Signing up on rmadefense.com is free and takes under 30 seconds. You'll typically receive a welcome discount just for joining.

2. Follow RMA on Social Media

RMA is active on Instagram, Facebook, X (Twitter), and TikTok. They regularly post flash sale announcements, exclusive social media promo codes, and limited-time offers that never make it to coupon aggregator sites. Following and enabling notifications for their accounts means you won't miss short-window deals.

3. Buy in Bundles or Kits

RMA's pre-built kits (like the Rift Armor Kit) are priced below the combined cost of buying each component separately. If you need both plates and a carrier, buying a matched kit almost always saves money and eliminates compatibility guesswork.

4. Take Advantage of Bulk Purchase Discounts

If you're equipping a team, unit, department, or group, RMA offers bulk purchase discounts. The larger the order, the better the per-unit pricing. For law enforcement agencies or preparedness groups outfitting multiple people, this can result in meaningful savings. Contact their customer service directly for a quote.

5. Military & Law Enforcement Discount

RMA offers a dedicated military discount for active-duty service members, veterans, and law enforcement officers. To claim it, navigate to the Military Discount page on rmadefense.com or contact customerservice@rmadefense.com to verify your status. This discount stacks well with seasonal sales for significant combined savings.

6. Check the "Steals & Deals" Section Regularly

As noted above, RMA's clearance section features ongoing markdowns of up to 30%. If your needs are flexible on model or colorway, you can often find excellent value here year-round.

7. Add a Trauma Pad to Your Order

While not a discount strategy per se, adding a trauma pad at checkout is one of the highest-value additions you can make for a small incremental cost. RMA frequently offers trauma pad bundle deals at checkout, and this accessory dramatically reduces blunt trauma force transmission — a meaningful upgrade to any armor system.

8. Time Your Purchase Around Major Holidays

If you're not in a rush, waiting for Memorial Day, Fourth of July, or Black Friday can save you $50–$100+ on a plate purchase. Given that plates are durable goods with 5–10 year service life, waiting a few weeks to save $75 is almost always worth it.

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5. How to Find Coupons, Deals & Offers

The RMA Armament coupon ecosystem is robust. Thousands of customers have used coupon codes to save an average of $62 per order. Here's where to find active, verified codes:

Official RMA Channels (Most Reliable)

• rmadefense.com — Check the homepage banner and "Steals & Deals" section for current promotions
• Email newsletter — Subscribe at rmadefense.com for exclusive subscriber codes
• Facebook (facebook.com/rmaarmament) — RMA posts promo codes directly on their page
• Instagram & TikTok — Flash sale codes often appear here first, sometimes lasting only 24–48 hours

Coupon Aggregator Sites

These sites aggregate and verify codes submitted by real shoppers. Hit rate varies, but they are worth checking before any purchase:

• RetailMeNot.com — Frequently lists 10–20% off RMA codes
• CouponFollow.com (couponfollow.com/site/rmadefense.com) — One of the more actively updated sources, with codes like "$100 off Level IV bundle" and "$50 off ESRT rifle plates"
• Savings.com — Lists both percentage and dollar-off codes; also tracks active sales
• DontPayFull.com — Community-verified codes; users post proof of working codes
• Honey / Capital One Shopping (browser extensions) — These browser extensions automatically apply the best available code at checkout. Installing one takes minutes and can surface codes you'd never find manually

Code Examples to Try

Based on historical data, the following types of codes have worked at RMA Armament:

• RMAINDUSTRYPARTNER — Industry partner code (10% off; confirmed working by community users)
• Seasonal codes released via email (e.g., "MEMDAY50" style naming during Memorial Day)
• Newsletter welcome codes (typically 5–10% off your first order)

Pro Tip: Codes from coupon sites that are labeled "expired" are often worth trying anyway. RMA occasionally reuses or extends codes, and approximately 20% of technically expired codes still apply at checkout.

Community Forums

Reddit's r/bodyarmor, r/tacticalgear, and r/preppers communities are active sources of crowd-sourced deals and code sharing. Users frequently post discount codes as soon as they're discovered, often before they appear on coupon aggregator sites.

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6. Payment Methods Accepted

RMA Armament keeps checkout straightforward. Transactions are completed online at rmadefense.com. The following payment options are available:

Online Payments

• Major Credit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover
• Debit Cards linked to major networks
• PayPal (where available at checkout)

Alternative Channels

• Phone orders: Customers can call (866) 978-7103 to place orders with a payment card over the phone — useful for bulk/law enforcement orders or customers who prefer speaking with a representative
• Mail payment: Check or money order payments can be submitted by mail for certain order types

What's Not Available

• In-store payments (RMA's Centerville facility is a manufacturing plant, not a retail storefront)
• Cryptocurrency payments (not currently listed as an accepted method)

Refund Processing

When a return is approved (see return policy below), refunds are processed back to the original payment method used during purchase. Processing times typically align with standard credit card refund windows of 3–7 business days after the return is received and approved.

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7. Real Customer Reviews

The most meaningful test of any armor brand is what real customers say after they've held the product, worn it, and in some cases trusted their lives to it. Here's what verified buyers across multiple platforms have said about RMA Armament:

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Nicholas M. (Verified Buyer, July 2025) On the 1155 Gen 2 Level IV Plate:

"Fit perfect in my 5.11 convertible plate carrier. I was worried about the thickness with loaded mag pouches but it's perfect. Well made product, fits my carrier very well. Item came exactly as advertised. Packaged well along with a couple stickers and a sweet surprise! Will order again, very pleased. HIGHLY RECOMMEND! Did I mention MADE IN AMERICA?! Please support US companies making quality products for the American people!"

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Richard G. (Verified Buyer, October 2024) On the Level IV Rift Armor Kit:

"Really nice plate carrier for the price. Very comfortable padding. Plates are amazing. Curved just right and very comfortable. Customer service was excellent. Definitely love this company."

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Frank S. (Verified Buyer, October 2024) On the 1155 Level IV Plate:

"Made in the USA and fantastic value and quality."

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William S. (Verified Buyer, rmadefense.com) On the 1155 Gen 2 Level IV Plate:

"These plates are great for what I do (RSO). Very comfortable. Fast shipping. Will be using and referring people to buy when they ask where I got mine."

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Anonymous Buyer (Verified, rmadefense.com) On the 1165 Gen 2 Level IV Plate:

"Great deal. Very comfortable for me. Have two sets, use for cardio. 69 years old."

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Elisabeth (Verified Buyer, March 2026) On the Rift Armor Kit:

"Product as described. Quick shipping."

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Zhen Z. (Verified Buyer, January 2026) On the Rift Armor Kit:

"Love them. Delivery really quick, and high quality."

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Matthew (Verified Buyer, May 2025) On the Rift Armor Kit:

"Well built carrier. The plates are well known to be solid. Haven't gotten shot wearing them yet but RMA's reputation suggests they'd do their job."

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Thomas H. (Verified Buyer, December 2024) On the 1155 Level IV Plate:

"Comfortable as can be. Fast shipping. Quality product."

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Anonymous Pre-Purchase Call Review (rmadefense.com)

"I called RMA prior to completing my order and the gentleman spent 30 minutes talking shop with me. I asked about different competitors and never did he badmouth any other company. RMA is a legit, decent company."

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Independent Expert Reviews

Beyond verified purchaser reviews, RMA Armament has been independently tested and reviewed by firearms and tactical media:

GunMade.com (Brian, USMC Veteran) conducted live ballistic testing of RMA's Level IV plates at a shooting range and noted that the plates held up to repeated impacts, calling them "relatively affordable" with performance that competes favorably with plates at significantly higher price points. He concluded: "If you're in the market for some plates, I suggest that you consider the RMA Armament level fours."

Pew Pew Tactical covered the Gen 2 launch and confirmed the weight specs and pricing, noting that the 1165 Gen 2 "takes weight savings to another level" and that introductory pricing makes the product a "compelling upgrade over Level III+ alternatives."

Aggregate Ratings

• rmadefense.com (internal): Individual product ratings consistently average 4.9–4.94 out of 5 stars based on hundreds of verified purchaser reviews
• Knoji.com: Overall brand score of 3.9 out of 5.0 based on 87 reviews, rating RMA among the top body armor brands

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8. Return & Exchange Policy

The Critical Caveat: All Body Armor Sales Are Final

This is the most important policy to understand before purchasing from RMA Armament. Due to the life-saving nature of their core products — body armor plates, soft armor, and helmets — RMA's standard policy is that all sales on armor products are final. No returns are accepted on armor once the sale is complete.

This policy exists for sound safety reasons: body armor that has been handled, transported, or potentially subjected to impacts it wasn't designed to absorb cannot be re-sold as new. The integrity of a protective plate must be beyond question. Accepting returns would introduce uncertainty about armor history that could, in theory, endanger the next buyer.

This is consistent with industry-wide practice — most reputable armor manufacturers hold similar no-return policies on protective gear.

What This Means for Buyers

Before you purchase, make sure you:

1. Confirm the plate size you need. Most adult buyers fit a standard 10×12 plate. Use RMA's sizing guides on their website if uncertain.
2. Verify your plate carrier compatibility. The 1155 and 1165 Gen 2 plates are designed to fit the majority of standard plate carriers. RMA provides recommended carrier pairings on each product page.
3. Understand the protection level you need. Level IV is the highest civilian protection level and defeats rifle-caliber threats including .30-06 M2AP. Level III+ defeats most common rifle rounds. Level IIIA covers handgun threats.
4. Read the product description carefully. Pay attention to weight, thickness, and cut (Shooter's Cut vs. SAPI) before ordering.

Tactical Gear & Non-Armor Items

For non-armor items (plate carriers, accessories, tactical gear), RMA may have different return or exchange terms. Contact customer service directly to clarify return windows and conditions for specific products before purchasing.

Legal Compliance Notice

By purchasing body armor from RMA Armament, buyers certify that they have not been convicted of any crime that would restrict their ability to purchase or possess body armor under Federal or State law. Many U.S. states have specific restrictions on body armor possession, including enhanced penalties for felons. It is the buyer's responsibility to understand and comply with all applicable local laws.

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9. Contact Information

RMA Armament is accessible through multiple channels. Their customer service team is frequently praised in reviews for being knowledgeable, patient, and willing to spend real time helping customers make the right purchase decision.

Mailing & Physical Address

RMA Armament, Inc.
22800 Dewey Rd.
Centerville, IA 52544
United States

Phone

(866) 978-7103 (Toll-free)
Available for order inquiries, bulk purchase quotes, law enforcement quotes, and general customer support

Email

customerservice@rmadefense.com
Use for: general inquiries, military/law enforcement discount verification, order issues, and bulk order requests

Website

rmadefense.com
Complete product catalog, blog/education center, and online store

Law Enforcement & Agency Quotes

RMA has a dedicated Law Enforcement Quote Form on their website for agencies seeking to outfit officers. Department purchasing officers should use this form rather than the standard retail checkout process.

Social Media

• Facebook: facebook.com/rmaarmament (130,000+ followers)
• Instagram: @rmadefense
• TikTok: @rmaarmament
• X (Twitter): @rmadefense

Factory Tours

RMA's Centerville, Iowa facility welcomes visitors. If you're ever in southern Iowa, they genuinely invite you to stop by for a tour of their manufacturing operation — a testament to the transparency they maintain about their American-made production process.

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10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is RMA Armament a legitimate company?

A: Yes, absolutely. RMA Armament, Inc. is a fully verified U.S. corporation founded in 2011, ITAR-registered, NIJ-certified, and holds a valid U.S. Patent and CAGE code. They have sold products to U.S. military units, law enforcement agencies, and hundreds of thousands of civilian customers. Their manufacturing facility in Centerville, Iowa, is open for tours, and their founder Blake Waldrop is a publicly known former Marine and law enforcement officer with a verifiable professional background.

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Q: What is the difference between the 1155 and 1165 plates?

A: Both are Level IV / RF3 rated and American-made. The key differences are:

Feature	1155 Gen 2	1165 Gen 2
Weight (Shooter's Cut)	6.6 lbs	5.3 lbs
Thickness	0.9 inches	0.7 inches
Backer Material	Polyethylene	Dyneema® UHMWPE
Price (Shooter's Cut)	~$199–$259	~$249–$349
Best For	Maximum value	Maximum weight savings

If budget is the primary concern, the 1155 Gen 2 is excellent. If you're running a kit daily or prioritize weight savings, the 1165 Gen 2 is worth the additional cost.

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Q: What protection level do I need?

A: This depends on your threat environment:

• Level IIIA: Stops most handgun rounds (9mm, .44 Magnum). Soft, concealable.
• Level III: Stops most common rifle rounds (5.56mm, 7.62mm FMJ). Hard plate.
• Level III+ / RF2: Stops green tip (M855) and other common enhanced rifle threats.
• Level IV / RF3: Highest NIJ-rated protection. Defeats .30-06 M2AP armor-piercing rounds and effectively handles all common rifle calibers including 5.56mm and 7.62×39.

For most civilians and law enforcement, Level IV provides the broadest margin of protection with peace of mind against a wide threat spectrum.

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Q: Does RMA Armament ship internationally?

A: RMA sells both domestically and internationally, but international orders are subject to applicable export regulations, including ITAR compliance. International buyers should contact RMA directly to discuss their situation and ensure their order is legally permissible.

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Q: How long does shipping take?

A: RMA advertises and is consistently praised for fast shipping. Domestic orders typically ship within 1–3 business days, with delivery times varying by location and shipping method selected. Expedited options are generally available at checkout for time-sensitive purchases.

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Q: Does RMA offer a military or law enforcement discount?

A: Yes. RMA Armament offers special pricing for active-duty military, veterans, and law enforcement personnel. To access this discount, visit the Military Discount page on rmadefense.com or contact customerservice@rmadefense.com to verify your eligibility.

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Q: Is body armor legal for me to buy?

A: In most U.S. states, body armor is legal for law-abiding adults to purchase and possess. However, federal law prohibits convicted felons from purchasing or possessing body armor. Some states (such as Connecticut) restrict sales to in-person only or have specific additional regulations. Always check your state and local laws before purchasing. RMA requires buyers to certify legal eligibility at purchase.

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Q: What is NIJ certification, and why does it matter?

A: The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) is a U.S. federal government agency that sets and administers the performance standards for ballistic-resistant body armor. NIJ certification means an independent laboratory has tested and verified that a product actually performs to its stated protection level under controlled conditions. It is not a self-declaration. When RMA lists a plate as "NIJ 0101.06 Certified," it means that exact product configuration has been independently tested and passed. This is the gold standard for body armor — not all products on the market carry it.

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Q: How should I store and maintain my armor plates?

A: RMA recommends storing armor plates in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Ceramic plates should not be dropped or subjected to hard impacts outside of their intended protective function, as repeated mechanical shock can compromise ceramic integrity even without visible damage. Most hard armor plates carry a 5-year warranty from RMA, and 10-year manufacturer ratings are common for plates that are properly stored. Never use plates that show visible cracking, delamination, or damage.

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Q: Do the 1155 and 1165 plates fit standard plate carriers?

A: Yes. Both the 1155 and 1165 Gen 2 plates in 10×12 (nominal) Shooter's Cut and SAPI Medium configurations fit the vast majority of standard plate carriers on the market. RMA specifically recommends compatible carriers including the Crye Precision JPC 2.0, 5.11 Convertible Plate Carrier, and the 0331 Tactical Sierra on their product pages.

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Q: Can I get a quote for equipping my agency or unit?

A: Yes. RMA has a dedicated Law Enforcement Quote Form on rmadefense.com for agency and department purchasing. For military inquiries or large civilian group purchases, contact their customer service team directly at (866) 978-7103 or customerservice@rmadefense.com.

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Should You Buy from RMA Armament?

After more than a decade in the body armor industry, RMA Armament has built a track record that is difficult to argue with. They are one of the only manufacturers in the country producing 100% American-made ceramic hard armor at prices accessible to working-class law enforcement officers and everyday civilians. Their Gen 2 plates represent a genuine technological leap — delivering weight and thickness profiles that were previously the exclusive domain of $1,000+ government procurement contracts.

The "final sale" policy on armor is firm, but it's the right policy for a product where uncertainty about provenance or condition is genuinely dangerous. Buy from RMA knowing you've done your homework on sizing and specifications, and you're buying from a company whose founder has worn this armor in the field and stakes his daughters' namesake on its performance every single day.

For first-time buyers, the 1155 Gen 2 is the clear starting point. For experienced operators who need to minimize kit weight, the 1165 Gen 2 is one of the best value propositions in the history of personal protective equipment.