Model 1948 RF3 Multi-Curved Ceramic Armor Plate

Firefight Series armor with redundant protection layers. The Model 1948 combines RF3 protection with a redundant ultra-high-molecular-weight backing plate that can act as standalone protection on some projectiles, providing an extra layer of security when you need it most.

Key Features:

• Firefight Series redundancy - Incorporates a redundant UHMWPE backing plate that can act as standalone protection on some projectiles with reduced reliance on the ceramic strike face
• RF3 standalone protection - Stops .30-06 M2 AP armor-piercing rounds at 2880 fps without requiring soft armor backing (standalone).
• Multi-curve ergonomic design - Multi-curve profile conforms to your body for superior comfort during extended wear
• GTS ShardLock™ fragmentation control - Eliminates most initial ceramic fragmentation for cleaner performance
• Crown shot tested - Test reports focus on the crown of the armor (weakest point) for true performance validation
• 99.7% ceramic purity - High-quality Italian alumina monolithic ballistic tile provides superior performance
• Made in the USA - Manufactured with 100% USA-sourced ARMORFILM™ adhesives
• 10-year warranty - Backed by a decade of warranty coverage on ballistic materials

Technical Specifications:

Firefight Series Design Philosophy:

The Model 1948 is part of GTS's Firefight Series, which incorporates a unique redundant protection approach. Unlike standard ceramic armor plates that rely solely on the ceramic strike face for ballistic protection, the Firefight Series includes a redundant ultra-high-molecular-weight backing plate engineered to provide standalone protection against some projectiles even if the ceramic strike face is compromised. This redundancy provides an additional layer of security in worst-case scenarios where the ceramic may be damaged or degraded.

This design philosophy recognizes that armor plates may be subjected to rough handling, drops, or environmental conditions that could potentially compromise the ceramic before a ballistic threat is encountered. The redundant backing plate acts as a safety net, maintaining some level of protection even under these challenging circumstances. Read more about our Firefight Series approach.

Ballistic Performance & Testing:

The Model 1948 meets NIJ 0101.07 RF3 standards, providing protection against .30-06 M2 AP armor-piercing ammunition traveling at 2880 feet per second. The RF3 protection level also covers all lower-tier threats including M193, M855, M855A1, 7.62 x 51mm M80, and 7.62 x 39mm MSC. The plate is multi-hit capable and supported by NIJ-approved laboratory testing and field testing.

A key differentiator in GTS testing methodology is the focus on crown shots - impacts at the center of the plate's curve where the ceramic is thinnest and most vulnerable. Many manufacturers test at "upper left and upper right" positions where the plate is stronger and easier to pass. GTS crown shot testing provides a more realistic assessment of true ballistic performance across the entire plate surface. View our ballistics test reports.

Superior Materials & Construction:

The Model 1948 uses 99.7% pure Italian alumina ceramic in a monolithic configuration. This exceptional purity level provides superior hardness and fracture resistance compared to the 90-95% purity ceramics used by many competitors. The edge-to-edge ceramic coverage with only a 2mm rubber rash guard maximizes the protected area while the monolithic design provides consistent performance across the entire strike face.

The plate is engineered for drops and rough handling with adequate crack arresting technology. GTS ShardLock™ fragmentation control eliminates most initial ceramic fragmentation, resulting in cleaner performance and reduced secondary projectile concerns. The built-in 0.25" trauma pad provides additional protection against backface deformation and blunt force trauma.

All adhesives used in the Model 1948 are 100% sourced in the USA. While other manufacturers may claim "100% USA" products, most armor adhesives are not domestically sourced. GTS ARMORFILM™ adhesives are manufactured entirely in the United States, including all source materials, ensuring supply chain reliability and consistent quality.

Multi-Curve Comfort & Wearability:

The multi-curve design of the Model 1948 sets it apart from single-curve plates by conforming more closely to your body's natural contours. This improved fit reduces standoff distance between the plate and your torso, which enhances both comfort and ballistic performance. The curves allow the plate to sit naturally against your chest or back, reducing pressure points and the tendency to shift during movement.

At 7.4 pounds with the built-in trauma pad, the Model 1948 provides a balance between protection and wearability. While lighter plates are available, the Model 1948's weight includes the redundant backing plate and trauma pad that provide the additional security features of the Firefight Series. This makes it ideal for professionals who prioritize maximum protection and redundancy over minimal weight.

Comparison to Other Brands:

* Many other multi-curved plates are lower purity and use finished sizes slightly smaller than the stated 10" x 12" size. These things are done to make the plate "lighter."

Applications & Use Cases:

The Model 1948 is ideal for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and civilians who require maximum rifle threat protection with redundant safety features. The Firefight Series design makes it particularly well-suited for high-risk environments where armor reliability is critical and the redundant backing plate provides additional peace of mind.

The RF3 protection level makes it suitable for high-threat environments where armor-piercing ammunition may be encountered. The multi-curve design and built-in trauma pad ensure comfort during extended wear, while the GTS ShardLock™ fragmentation control provides confidence in close-quarters scenarios.

The standalone design means no soft armor backing is required, simplifying your armor system while maintaining full RF3 protection. The default 1000 denier falcon cover protects the plate during daily use and provides a durable outer surface.

U.S. Law prohibits persons convicted of certain violent state and/or federal felonies from purchasing body armor. You are responsible for knowledge of and compliance with federal, state and local laws regarding body armor. In addition, all sales are in compliance with and customer acknowledgement of our LEGAL NOTICE, here.

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