The TAC-11 ARK is a 10"×12" SAPI-cut multi-curve rifle special threat plate weighing only 2.5 lbs at 0.55" thickness. Independently tested per NIJ 0101.06 (modified protocol) to defeat 5.56mm M193 and 7.62×39mm PS Ball MSC. Features a durable Line-X Defense Formula polyurea coating and a 7-year manufacturer warranty. Made in the USA.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | TAC 11 (USA) |
| Model | ARK Rifle Special Threat Plate |
| Protection Level | Rifle Special Threat (Level III+ equivalent, independently tested) |
| Threats Tested | 5.56mm M193, 7.62×39mm PS Ball MSC |
| Dimensions | 10" × 12" SAPI Cut, Multi-Curve |
| Weight | 2.5 lbs (1,134 g) per plate |
| Thickness | 0.55" |
| Coating | Line-X Defense Formula Polyurea |
| Testing Standard | NIJ 0101.06 modified (to include M193 and 7.62×39 PS Ball) |
| Warranty | 7 years |
| Country of Origin | USA |
Product Overview
The TAC-11 ARK (Advanced Rifle Killer) plate is built specifically to address the two rifle threats most commonly fired in active shooter and patrol scenarios: the 5.56mm M193 (standard AR-15 ammunition) and the 7.62×39mm PS Ball MSC (standard AK-47/AKM ammunition). At just 2.5 lbs and 0.55" thickness, the ARK delivers meaningful rifle protection at a carried weight that is approximately three times lighter than comparable AR600 steel plates and roughly half the thickness — without sacrificing the durability and multi-hit performance that operators require.
The plate is constructed using a composite architecture optimized for this lightweight performance profile. TAC 11 applies a Line-X Defense Formula polyurea coating — the same industrial-grade protective coating used in military vehicle armor applications — which provides chemical resistance, scratch resistance, waterproofing, and secondary fragment mitigation in a single layer. Unlike a simple paint or dip coating, Line-X Defense Formula bonds permanently to the substrate at a molecular level, ensuring it will not peel, crack, or delaminate under operational stress.
The SAPI-cut multi-curve geometry of the ARK is a significant ergonomic advantage. Multi-curve plates are shaped to follow the natural contour of the human torso — curving both across the chest and longitudinally from shoulder to waist — which distributes the plate's weight across a larger contact area and reduces the pressure points that cause fatigue during extended wear. Combined with the 2.5 lb weight, the ARK dramatically reduces the physical burden on operators compared to flat or single-curve heavy steel alternatives.
Testing was conducted at an accredited ballistics laboratory using the NIJ 0101.06 methodology, modified to encompass the M193 (5.56×45mm, 55 gr FMJ) and 7.62×39 PS Ball MSC threats that the standard NIJ Level III protocol does not mandate. This honest "modified protocol" labeling reflects TAC 11's commitment to transparent performance claims rather than overstating standard NIJ certification status.
Weight & Thickness Comparison
| Plate Type | Typical Weight (10×12) | Typical Thickness |
|---|---|---|
| TAC-11 ARK (composite) | 2.5 lbs | 0.55" |
| AR600 Steel (Level III+) | ~5.5–6.5 lbs | ~0.45–0.55" |
| Ceramic/PE Composite (Level III+) | ~5.0–6.0 lbs | ~0.80–1.0" |
| UHMWPE Standalone (Level III) | ~3.0–3.5 lbs | ~0.75–1.0" |
Browse additional lightweight rifle plates in the Armor Plates & Panels collection. For complete loadout systems, explore Plate Carriers & Tactical Vests or the Premium Body Armor Vests & Protection collection.
All products sourced from the actual brand manufacturer or authorized master distributors. CoTCCC recommendation status verified where applicable. Ships from MED-TAC International, Pembroke Pines, FL — clinician-founded, veteran-led, SDVOSB-certified.
Specifications coming soon. Contact us for detailed product information.
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