The CompassArmor BPV-TS is a close-fitting, T-shirt-style concealable body armor garment rated to NIJ Level IIIA. Built from Kevlar aramid fiber, it delivers handgun-rated ballistic protection in an everyday shirt silhouette — no external carrier, no plate pockets, no tactical profile. Available in seven sizes from XS to 3XL in black, the BPV-TS is designed for professionals and civilians who need ballistic coverage that disappears under a dress shirt, polo, or light jacket.

Who this is for

• Plainclothes and executive protection professionals who require discreet IIIA-rated coverage without a visible carrier or vest profile.
• Civilians seeking everyday concealable protection who want a wearable garment rather than a panel insert that requires a separate carrier system.
• Law enforcement and security personnel working in environments where a low-visibility armor option complements or replaces a duty vest for off-duty or plainclothes assignments.

Threat coverage

NIJ Level IIIA is the highest soft-armor handgun rating in the NIJ 0101.06 standard. At this level, the BPV-TS is designed to resist threats including .357 SIG FMJ Flat Nose and .44 Magnum SJHP rounds, covering the full spectrum of common handgun calibers from 9mm through .44 Magnum. Level IIIA soft armor does not protect against rifle rounds or armor-piercing handgun ammunition. For rifle-rated coverage, a hard armor plate worn over or in addition to this garment would be required.

Concealability and comfort

The BPV-TS is engineered around an extra-light, close-fitting T-shirt cut. The Kevlar construction conforms to the torso without the bulk of a traditional plate carrier or vest, allowing the garment to sit under standard clothing without printing. The black colorway keeps the garment neutral under any outer layer. Seven sizes — XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL, and 3XL — accommodate a wide range of body types, and the close-fit geometry is intended to minimize panel shift during movement.

Specifications

Fit and carrier compatibility

The BPV-TS functions as an all-in-one armor garment — the Kevlar panel is integrated into the T-shirt body, so no external carrier is needed. Sizing runs from XS through 3XL; consult the CompassArmor BPV-TS size and fitting chart (updated August 2018) to match your chest and torso measurements to the correct size. If you have questions about fit for a specific build or use case, contact us before ordering.

Frequently asked questions

Can this be shipped to my state?

Body armor cannot be shipped to New York or Connecticut due to state restrictions on civilian body armor sales. Under 18 U.S.C. § 931, anyone with a federal felony conviction for a crime of violence is prohibited from purchasing or possessing body armor. Verify your local regulations before ordering.

What is NIJ Level IIIA and what does it stop?

NIJ Level IIIA is the highest soft-armor handgun rating defined in NIJ standard 0101.06. It covers threats from 9mm through .44 Magnum, including .357 SIG FMJ Flat Nose and .44 Magnum SJHP — the two calibers used as test rounds for IIIA certification. It does not stop rifle rounds, armor-piercing pistol rounds, or any rimfire rifle threats.

Will this stop rifle rounds?

No. The BPV-TS is a Level IIIA soft armor garment rated for handgun threats only. Rifle-caliber rounds — including 5.56x45, 7.62x39, and similar intermediate and full-power cartridges — require hard armor plates rated Level III or Level IV. This garment does not provide rifle protection and is not designed to be used as a standalone solution against rifle fire.

Does this require a separate carrier or vest?

No. The Kevlar ballistic panel is integrated directly into the T-shirt garment. You wear it as you would any undershirt — no carrier, no plate pockets, no additional hardware required. This is the primary concealability advantage of the BPV-TS over traditional insert-and-carrier systems.

How do I choose the right size?

CompassArmor publishes a dedicated size and fit chart for the BPV-TS (updated August 2018) covering all seven sizes from XS to 3XL. Match your chest and torso measurements against that chart for the best fit. If you are between sizes or have an atypical build, contact us and we can help you select the right option.

Can I wash this garment?

Kevlar ballistic panels are sensitive to heat, agitation, and certain detergents — machine washing and machine drying can degrade the ballistic fibers over time and should be avoided. Follow the care label on the garment. When in doubt, hand wash cold and air dry flat to preserve the structural integrity of the Kevlar layers.