Home Ballistic Gear RMA Defense Model 1155: Level IV Multi-Hit Ceramic Composite
Ballistic Gear

RMA Defense Model 1155: Level IV Multi-Hit Ceramic Composite

RMA Defense's Level IV plate is tested for multiple hits and NIJ-certified. American-made ceramic composite at $225/plate — better value than HESCO for most buyers.

OVERALL RATING 9.1 /10
RMA Defense Model 1155: Level IV Multi-Hit Ceramic Composite ~$225/plate
Buy on Amazon →

Pros

  • NIJ 0101.07 Level IV certified
  • Multi-hit tested (published data)
  • American manufacture (Centerville, Iowa)
  • $225/plate — better value than HESCO
  • Triple curve for carrier comfort
  • Both 10x12 and 8x10 available

Cons

  • ~7 lbs per plate (ceramic weight)
  • Handle carefully — ceramic cracks on hard impact
  • Shelf life ~10 years
  • Single-shot AP protection (not infinite multi-AP)
  • Heavier than polyethylene alternatives

Specifications

Curve Triple curve
Price ~$225/plate
Stops .30 cal M2 AP + M80 ball (multi-hit tested)
Weight ~7 lbs (10x12)
US Made Yes (Iowa)
Material Ceramic composite
NIJ Rating Level IV (NIJ 0101.07 certified)
Shelf Life ~10 years

RMA Defense is an American manufacturer that competes directly with HESCO at significantly lower pricing. The Model 1155 Level IV plate is NIJ 0101.07 certified, manufactured in Centerville, Iowa, and tested to multi-hit standards that exceed the single-hit NIJ minimum requirement.

NIJ Certified at Lower Price

NIJ 0101.07 certification means third-party testing has verified the protection claims. Unlike some lesser-known brands that claim Level IV without certification, RMA plates carry verifiable credentials. At $225/plate versus HESCO's $299+, the value case is clear for non-government buyers.

Multi-Hit Testing

RMA has published multi-hit test data for the 1155. The plate handles six M80 ball impacts and three M2 AP hits in the tested pattern. For an operator who might take multiple rifle rounds, this matters more than single-hit NIJ certification alone.

Ready to buy? Support TacVault via affiliate link — costs you nothing extra.
Buy on Amazon →

Stay ahead of the gear curve.

New reviews, field reports, and operator intel — direct to your inbox. No spam. Unsubscribe any time.