The HighCom Guardian RSTP Gen 2 is a ceramic/UHMWPE composite hard armor plate rated Level III+ Special Threat, designed for use in-conjunction-with (ICW) Level IIIA soft armor. Manufactured through HighCom's XTclave ultra-high pressure consolidation process, this SAPI multi-curve plate stops six rounds of 5.56x45 M855 Green Tip and has been independently tested at an NVLAP-accredited, NIJ-approved laboratory against NIJ Standard 0101.06 threat parameters. Available in five SAPI sizes from XS (7.25x11.5 in) through XL (11x14 in), with weights ranging from 2.7 lbs to 5.1 lbs per plate depending on size.

Who this is for

• Law enforcement officers: who require multi-hit capable rifle protection against common patrol threats including 5.56 M855, 7.62x39 MSC, and 7.62x54R in a SAPI-compatible platform
• Security professionals and armed contractors: who need a thin profile (0.75 in) ICW plate that integrates with existing soft armor systems without adding excessive bulk
• Tactical team members: who require a proven special threat plate capable of stopping six consecutive Green Tip impacts with a 5-year ballistic warranty behind it

Ballistic performance

The Guardian RSTP Gen 2 combines a ceramic strike face with a UHMWPE backing, consolidated under XTclave ultra-high pressure to produce a dense, consistent laminate that distributes and absorbs energy across its full face. The ceramic layer fractures and erodes the projectile on initial impact; the UHMWPE backing captures and arrests the deformed fragments. This construction supports multi-hit performance across a spread of impact locations.

This is an ICW plate. It is rated for use paired with a Level IIIA soft armor backer. Using this plate without a Level IIIA soft armor panel underneath will not achieve the tested threat coverage listed below. The plate stops six rounds of 5.56x45 M855 Green Tip — the most commonly cited Green Tip defeat capability at this plate weight and profile.

Independent ballistic test data

Tested at an NVLAP-accredited, NIJ-approved laboratory against NIJ Standard 0101.06 and special threat parameters. All tests conducted ICW Level IIIA soft armor.

Plate compatibility and cut geometry

The RSTP Gen 2 is cut in SAPI profile with multi-curve geometry across all five sizes. SAPI cut plates fit the widest range of plate carrier pocket styles, including most carriers designed around the SAPI/ESAPI standard used by the US military and law enforcement. Multi-curve geometry means the plate follows both the vertical and horizontal contour of the torso simultaneously, reducing pressure points and improving fit against the body compared to single-curve alternatives at the same areal density.

The areal density is 4.85 psf (23.68 kg/m²) and the plate profile measures 0.75 in (18.90 mm) thick. Any plate carrier with a front or rear plate pocket sized to accept standard SAPI dimensions at the appropriate size tier will fit this plate. Contact us if you need help confirming carrier compatibility for a specific size.

Specifications

Fit and carrier compatibility

The Guardian RSTP Gen 2 ships in five SAPI sizes — XS through XL — covering the full range of torso dimensions from smaller frames to larger builds. SAPI-cut plate pockets are the most widely used standard in the plate carrier market, so this plate integrates into the broadest possible selection of carriers without modification. The multi-curve profile adds a second axis of curvature that keeps the plate seated flush against the chest regardless of size, which is particularly noticeable in longer wear sessions. Confirm that your carrier's plate pocket depth can accommodate a 0.75 in plate profile before ordering; most modern tactical and duty carriers exceed this clearance without issue.

Frequently asked questions

What rounds does the RSTP Gen 2 stop?

Tested ICW Level IIIA soft armor, this plate stops 7.62mm FMJ M80 (NIJ 0101.06), 5.56x45 M193 at 2,985 fps, 5.56x45 M855 Green Tip at 3,018 fps, 7.62x39mm MSC M43 at 2,296 fps, 7.62x54R LPS at 2,716 fps, and 5.45x39mm MSC 7N6 at 3,000 fps. Multi-hit capable across all listed threats. These ratings apply only when the plate is used ICW a Level IIIA soft armor panel.

Is this plate NIJ Certified or NIJ Listed?

The RSTP Gen 2 has been independently tested at an NVLAP-accredited, NIJ-approved laboratory against NIJ Standard 0101.06 threat parameters. The Level III+ Special Threat designation is a vendor-specific rating that goes beyond the standard NIJ 0101.06 Level III threat set and is not itself a listed NIJ standard designation. For current NIJ Compliant Products List status, check the NIJ CPL directly at nij.ojp.gov.

What is the difference between Level III, Level III+, and Level IV?

NIJ Level III is a published standard that requires a plate to stop 7.62mm FMJ M80 at 2,780 fps. Level III+ is a vendor designation — not an official NIJ standard — indicating a plate stops threats that exceed the Level III test set, typically 5.56 M855 and M193 at higher velocities. Level IV is a published NIJ standard requiring the plate to stop .30 caliber AP M2 at 2,880 fps. The RSTP Gen 2 fills the gap between III and IV for common rifle threats encountered in the field.

Does this plate need a soft armor backer?

Yes. The RSTP Gen 2 is an ICW (in-conjunction-with) plate. All tested ballistic ratings apply only when this plate is used together with a Level IIIA soft armor panel. Running this plate standalone, without a IIIA backer, does not replicate the tested performance and is not the intended use configuration.

What is the difference between SAPI cut and Shooters cut?

SAPI (Small Arms Protective Insert) cut features more pronounced upper shoulder notches derived from military sizing standards, fitting carriers built around military-spec plate pockets. Shooters cut has shallower, more squared shoulder cuts that allow greater shoulder and arm mobility during shooting positions. The RSTP Gen 2 ships in SAPI cut only. If your carrier accepts SAPI plates, this plate fits directly without modification.

Can this plate be shipped to my state?

This plate cannot be shipped to New York or Connecticut due to state body armor restrictions. 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. Sales are subject to US export regulations and are restricted to lawful US persons; no individual orders can be exported from the United States.