AR500's Sentry Level III plate set with anti-spall coating — the most affordable multi-hit steel protection at $99/pair. The starting point for plate carrier builds on a strict budget.
| Price | ~$99/pair |
| Stops | M80 ball 7.62, standard-velocity 5.56 |
| Weight | ~7 lbs each |
| Profile | Flat |
| Material | AR500 steel |
| Multi-Hit | Yes |
| NIJ Rating | Level III |
| Spall Coating | Trifecta (standard) |
The AR500 Sentry series is the entry-level option from a manufacturer with a documented quality record. Level III protection (stops 7.62 NATO M80 ball, 5.56 M193 at standard level — note: does NOT stop M193 at high velocity without Level III+ upgrade), anti-spall coating included, at $99 per pair.
Standard Level III does not include testing against M193 at 3,100fps (the standard 5.56 loading). If your threat environment includes 5.56 rifle fire, understand this limitation and consider the Level III+ upgrade at AR500 or Spartan Armor. The Sentry is appropriate for environments where 7.62 NATO or lower-velocity 5.56 is the primary concern.
AR500's Trifecta coating captures bullet jacket fragments and spall on impact. Required for safe steel armor use — never run uncoated steel plates.
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