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Body armor can seem confusing at first, especially when you start seeing terms like NIJ ratings, soft armor, hard plates, plate carriers, and riot gear all in the same conversation. This guide breaks it down in plain language so first-time buyers can understand what each piece does, how the body armor NIJ levels work, and when it makes sense to upgrade. What NIJ ratings mean The National Institute of Justice, or NIJ, is the main U.S. standard-setting body for ballistic-resistant body armor. NIJ …