The Chase Tactical SA3100 is a Level IIIA soft armor panel certified compliant by NIJ and listed on the NIJ Compliant Products List (CPL) under NIJ Standard 0101.06. Built from a unique matrix system of advanced PEUD Dyneema and patented woven aramid, these stand-alone panels stop handgun-caliber threats while measuring just 0.287 inches thin and weighing 1.35 lbs. The SA3100 ships in an extensive range of configurations — BALCS/SPEAR sizes XS through 2XL, multiple cummerbund shapes from 5"x7" up to 6"x14", and plate backer formats covering SAPI XS through XL, Shooters Cut, Full Cut, and Advanced Swimmer Cut — making it one of the most adaptable soft armor platforms available.

Who this is for

• Law enforcement and first responders needing NIJ Listed Level IIIA side and cummerbund armor that meets DEA and FBI standards
• Military and government personnel requiring BALCS/SPEAR-compatible panels for integration into existing plate carrier systems
• Civilians and security professionals seeking a flexible, stand-alone soft armor insert with multi-hit capability and a lifetime-backed warranty

Threat coverage

The SA3100 is rated at NIJ Level IIIA under NIJ Standard 0101.06, and holds CPL listing under that standard. Level IIIA is the highest soft armor designation in the legacy NIJ framework, providing stand-alone protection against handgun threats including 9mm, .357 SIG, and .44 Magnum at their respective NIJ test velocities. These panels also meet and exceed DEA standards and FBI requirements for soft body armor.

Level IIIA soft armor does not stop rifle-caliber rounds. For rifle threats, a hard armor plate worn in conjunction with or independently of this panel is required.

Concealability and comfort

At 0.287 inches thick, the SA3100 is thin enough to integrate discreetly into cummerbunds, plate carrier side pockets, and concealable carrier configurations. The panel construction uses a Sonobond and sealed water-resistant RipStop cover, providing moisture resistance during extended wear. The multi-panel aramid and Dyneema matrix stays flexible under load, which reviewers consistently note makes all-day wear manageable. The BALCS cut design is compatible with standard BALCS/SPEAR carrier configurations used across U.S. military and law enforcement platforms.

Care and maintenance

The ballistic material carries a 5-year warranty; the exterior cover material and workmanship are covered for 1 year. All sales are final due to the ballistic nature of the product, with warranty and manufacturing defect claims handled separately. Allow 2–3 weeks for shipment on this item.

Specifications

Fit and carrier compatibility

The SA3100 is designed around the BALCS/SPEAR standard configuration, making it a direct fit for any carrier with BALCS-compatible pockets — including Crye Precision CPC cummerbunds and similar military-spec platforms. Plate backer variants drop into 8"x10" and 10"x12" plate pockets in Shooters Cut, Full Cut, or Advanced Swimmer Cut, and SAPI-dimensioned pockets from XS (7.5"x11.5") through XL (11"x14"). Cummerbund shape variants cover the widest range of side-armor pockets on the market, from 5"x7" up to 6"x14". If you need help confirming which configuration fits your specific carrier, contact us before ordering.

Frequently asked questions

What is NIJ Level IIIA and what does it stop?

NIJ Level IIIA is the highest rating in the legacy soft armor standard (NIJ 0101.06). It provides stand-alone protection against handgun threats including 9mm full metal jacket, .357 SIG FMJ flat nose, and .44 Magnum semi-jacketed hollow point at their respective test velocities. The SA3100 is CPL-listed under NIJ 0101.06, confirming it passed independent third-party testing at an NIJ-accredited laboratory.

Will this stop rifle rounds?

No. Level IIIA soft armor is not rated for any rifle-caliber threat. Rounds such as 5.56x45 M193, 7.62x39, and .308 Winchester exceed the design parameters of this panel. A rifle-rated hard armor plate is required for rifle-threat protection.

How does HG2 compare to the legacy Level IIIA designation?

NIJ 0101.07 (next-generation standard) replaces the legacy "Level IIIA" label with "HG2." The threat parameters are closely aligned — HG2 testing adds a .44 Magnum test shot to the 9mm test sequence. The SA3100 is certified under the current NIJ 0101.06 standard and listed on the CPL; it is not yet designated under 0101.07.

Can I wash this panel?

The RipStop cover is water-resistant, not machine-washable. Follow the care instructions included with the panel. Ballistic panels should never be submerged or machine washed, as this can degrade the lamination and void the ballistic warranty. Spot-clean the cover with a damp cloth and allow to air dry.

How long is the shelf life and when should I replace this panel?

The ballistic material carries a 5-year warranty. Chase Tactical backs the full product with a limited lifetime warranty. Replace any panel that shows physical damage, delamination, or compression from a ballistic impact event, regardless of warranty period.

Can this panel be shipped to my state?

The SA3100 cannot be shipped to Connecticut or New York due to state body armor restrictions. It ships freely to all other U.S. states. Under 18 U.S.C. § 931, any person with a federal felony conviction for a crime of violence is prohibited from purchasing or possessing body armor.