VISM Level III+ CURVED Ballistic Side Hard Plate

2023-11-03T21:09:48-04:00

Vendor: VISM
Type: Body Armor
Price: 69.99

The VISM Level III+ CURVED Ballistic Side Hard Plate is a 6"×6" UHMWPE side plate with a single curve that conforms to the natural contour of the lateral torso. Independently tested to Level III+ standards and weighing approximately 1.07 lbs (485 g), it improves comfort and body fit over flat side plates while delivering the same rifle-rated ballistic protection for plate carrier side pockets.

Key Specifications

Specification | Detail
Brand | VISM by NcStar
Protection Level | Level III+ (independently tested)
Material | UHMWPE (Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene)
Dimensions | 6"×6" curved square cut
Profile | Single curve (lateral body conforming)
Weight | ~1.07 lbs (485 g) per plate
Threat Rated | 7.62×51mm NATO and Level III+ threats
Application | Side plate pockets of plate carriers and armor vests

Product Overview

The VISM Level III+ CURVED Ballistic Side Hard Plate delivers the same independently tested Level III+ ballistic protection as VISM's flat side plate, with a critical ergonomic upgrade: a single-axis curve that follows the natural lateral curvature of the human torso. The human body is not flat — the sides taper inward from the ribs toward the waist — and a flat side plate held in a carrier against this curved surface will rock, shift, and create pressure points that become increasingly uncomfortable during extended operations.

The single-curve geometry of this plate eliminates that rocking motion by placing the plate's concave face against the body, distributing contact pressure uniformly across the entire plate surface rather than concentrating it at the edges. This makes the curved plate the preferred choice for personnel who will be wearing a full plate carrier system for extended patrol shifts, training evolutions, or operational deployments where comfort directly impacts performance and endurance.

Ballistic performance between the flat (BPSD66) and curved versions is functionally equivalent — both use UHMWPE construction and both are independently tested to Level III+ standards. The additional manufacturing step to introduce the curve does not compromise ballistic integrity. At the same ~1.07 lb weight, the curved plate delivers the ergonomic benefit at no weight penalty compared to the flat version.

Curved vs. Flat Side Plates: Which Should You Choose?

Factor | Flat Plate | Curved Plate
Body conformance | Gaps at edges | Follows torso contour
Comfort (extended wear) | Pressure points possible | Distributed contact, more comfortable
Ballistic performance | Level III+ equivalent | Level III+ equivalent
Carrier compatibility | Wider compatibility | Requires flexible-sided pocket
Best for | Short-duration or emergency use | Extended patrol, full-shift wear

Compare the flat version (BPSD66) and browse all side plate options in the Armor Plates & Panels collection. For plate carriers with integrated side plate pockets, visit Plate Carriers & Tactical Vests. See the Ballistic Protection collection for a full view of all body armor options.