The Spartan Armor Systems Flex Fused Core HG2 Level IIIA Soft Body Armor is an aramid-fiber concealable panel built to stop handgun threats while staying thin enough to wear discreetly under everyday clothing. Manufactured in Tucson, Arizona from American-made materials, the Flex Fused Core rates to HG2 (Level IIIA) — the highest handgun protection level in the NIJ threat hierarchy. The 10"x12" panel weighs 0.95 lb at 0.35" thick. Available in three sizes: 8"x10", 10"x12", and 11"x14".

Who this is for

• Plainclothes professionals: law enforcement officers, investigators, and security personnel who need ballistic coverage without the profile of a plate carrier
• Everyday carriers: civilians seeking discreet, all-day protection against handgun threats under a jacket, vest, or loose shirt
• Budget-conscious buyers: anyone who wants domestic manufacturing, a 5-year warranty, and IIIA-level coverage without a four-figure price tag

Threat coverage

The Flex Fused Core is rated HG2 (equivalent to legacy Level IIIA) — the top handgun-rated tier in the NIJ body armor standard. At HG2, panels are tested against .357 SIG FMJ flat-nose and .44 Magnum SJHP rounds, which together represent the most energetic common handgun threats. This rating also covers the full range of lower-energy pistol rounds: 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, and .357 Magnum.

Soft armor at the IIIA/HG2 level does not stop rifle rounds. A rifle-rated hard plate — Level III, Level III+, or Level IV — is required for any rifle-caliber threat. The Flex Fused Core is designed to function as a standalone handgun-rated panel or as a soft backer behind a hard armor plate in a plate carrier.

Concealability and comfort

The aramid-fiber construction keeps the 10"x12" panel at 0.35 inches thick and under one pound, which allows it to sit flat against the torso inside a concealable carrier or purpose-built vest. The 8"x10" option drops to 0.70 lb for applications where a smaller coverage footprint is acceptable — backpack panel use, secondary coverage, or smaller-framed wearers. The 11"x14" size at 1.35 lb provides expanded coverage for larger frames or higher-risk environments where a fuller front panel is preferred.

Care and maintenance

Soft aramid panels should not be machine washed or submerged. Wipe the outer carrier with a damp cloth; keep the panel dry. Store flat or loosely rolled in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight and chemical exposure. The Flex Fused Core carries a 5-year warranty against manufacturer defects. Inspect the panel for deformation, moisture damage, or compromised stitching at regular intervals and replace if any degradation is detected.

Specifications

Fit and carrier compatibility

The Flex Fused Core is a bare panel without an integrated carrier. The 10"x12" size fits the plate pocket of most standard plate carriers and concealable vest systems designed for 10"x12" soft inserts. The 8"x10" panel suits smaller concealable carriers and backpack armor sleeves. The 11"x14" size fits full-coverage front and rear pockets on larger plate carriers. For fit confirmation across specific carrier models, contact us before ordering.

Frequently asked questions

What is HG2 / Level IIIA and what does it stop?

HG2 is the NIJ designation for the highest handgun protection tier. It covers .357 SIG FMJ flat-nose, .44 Magnum SJHP, and all lower-energy pistol calibers including 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, and .357 Magnum. It does not stop rifle rounds — for rifle-caliber threats, a hard armor plate rated Level III or higher is required.

Will this panel stop rifle rounds?

No. Soft aramid panels at the IIIA/HG2 level are not designed to stop rifle-caliber projectiles. Rounds like 5.56x45 M193 and 7.62x39 will defeat soft armor. If rifle-rated protection is required, pair this panel as a soft backer with a Level III, Level III+, or Level IV hard plate in a plate carrier.

Can I conceal this under everyday clothing?

Yes. At 0.35" thick and 0.95 lb in the 10"x12" size, the Flex Fused Core sits flat under a button-down shirt, jacket, or loose outerwear when placed inside a properly fitted concealable carrier. The 8"x10" version is even easier to conceal for smaller frames or under tighter garments.

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

The Flex Fused Core carries a 5-year warranty against manufacturer defects. Inspect the panel regularly for moisture damage, deformation, or compromised stitching. Replace the panel immediately after any ballistic impact event — a panel that has stopped a round is no longer serviceable, regardless of visible damage.

Can I wash this panel?

No. Do not machine wash or submerge the aramid panel. Clean the outer carrier separately per its care label. Wipe the panel surface with a lightly damp cloth if needed and allow it to air dry fully before reinstalling. Exposure to prolonged moisture or harsh chemicals degrades aramid fibers over time.

Can this be shipped to my state?

This panel cannot be shipped to New York or Connecticut due to state body armor restrictions. It is subject to US export regulations for international orders. 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.