Introduction to Side Plates in Body Armor
Why Side Protection Matters
Most people focus on chest and back plates when building out their body armor. But guess what? Your vital organs don't stop at your front and back. The sides of your torso—where your ribs, liver, and other soft tissue reside—are just as vulnerable. That's where side plates like the Hesco L110 come in, filling a critical gap in your protection setup.
Learn more about how side plates compare in our guide to body armor ratings and ballistic protection standards.
The Role of Special Threat Plates
Standard Level III or IV plates are great—but heavy. They're made to stop full-power rifle rounds. However, special threat plates like the L110 are lighter and designed to prevent specific threats commonly seen in the field, like 7.62×39 API or 5.56 M855 rounds—less bulk, more agility, and still solid peace of mind.
Meet the Hesco L110 Side Plates
Overview and Purpose
The Hesco L110 Special Threat Side Plates are a pair of lightweight, durable side armor panels designed to supplement your main torso protection. Whether you're on patrol, prepping for the unknown, or just adding extra safety, these plates are purpose-built for enhanced survivability.
Who These Plates Are For
- Tactical professionals needing agile protection
- Law enforcement officers on the front lines
- Civilian preppers wanting reliable armor without overkill
- Security contractors and PMC personnel
Key Features That Make the L110 Stand Out
Single-Curve Ergonomic Design
Forget the clunky feel of old plates. The L110's single-curve shape hugs your body just right. It's engineered for comfort and mobility, even when worn for extended periods.
Not sure which cut best fits your mission? Compare shooter’s cut, swimmer’s cut, and SAPI cut options to find the right fit.
Advanced Composite Materials
At the core of the L110 is a high-performance composite matrix—not steel, and not ceramic that shatters on impact. These advanced materials deliver multi-hit performance while staying lightweight and buoyant.
Buoyant and Lightweight
Did we mention it floats? Unlike steel or dense ceramics, this plate is buoyant, making it ideal for operations near water. Plus, the lightweight build reduces fatigue during movement.
Durable Cordura Nylon Wrap
The plates are enclosed in a Cordura nylon wrap—a heavy-duty fabric that protects against abrasion, tearing, and rough handling. Think of it like body armor for your body armor.
Water-Repellent Polyurea Coating
A polyurea coating shields the plate from environmental threats—rain, humidity, and even saltwater. It's your first line of defense against wear and corrosion.
Made in the USA – Built to Last
Proudly made in the United States under strict quality controls, the L110 doesn't cut corners. You're getting top-tier engineering, not some imported knock-off.
Understanding Special Threat Protection
What Is a Special Threat Plate?
"Special Threat" is not an official NIJ level. Instead, it refers to plates tested against specific threats outside of NIJ III or IV guidelines—especially armor-piercing or steel-core rounds.
Want to understand how armor stops threats? Learn how bulletproof vests work.
L110 vs Level III vs Level IV
| Feature | L110 | Level III | Level IV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | Lightweight | Moderate | Heavy |
| Protection | Select intermediate threats | 7.62×51mm NATO | .30-06 M2 AP |
| Comfort | High | Medium | Low |
| Cost | Mid-range | Mid to High | High |
Common Threats Defeated by L110
- 7.62×39 API (Armor-Piercing Incendiary)
- 5.56×45 M855 (Steel Core/Green Tip)
- Multiple hits from high-velocity intermediate rounds
These are common battlefield and urban threats not always addressed by traditional NIJ ratings.
Real-World Use Cases
Law Enforcement Applications
Police officers operating in high-risk environments—think gang violence or drug interdictions—need fast-moving armor that doesn't slow them down. The L110 is light enough for patrol, tough enough for worst-case scenarios.
Military and Tactical Operators
For soldiers or contractors operating in environments with unpredictable threats, side protection is essential. The L110 offers that extra insurance without adding bulk.
Civilian Use and Preparedness
Whether you're a prepper, homesteader, or just someone who believes in being ready, the L110 is a brilliant addition to your armor loadout. It's NIJ-tested, compact, and doesn't scream military when stored or used.
Performance and Durability Testing
How Hesco Tests Their Plates
Hesco subjects the L110 to rigorous multi-hit testing against standard rifle rounds. They test for penetration, backface deformation, and durability after rough handling.
Third-Party Ballistic Testing
Independent labs also validate Hesco's claims, providing transparent data on impact resistance and multi-hit durability. You're not just taking their word for it—the results back it up.
How L110 Compares to Other Side Plates
Hesco L210 vs L110
- L210: Also a special threat plate, but primarily for front/back torso.
- L110: Side-specific, lighter, and curved for comfort.
- If you already run an L210 setup, the L110 makes a perfect complement.
Choosing between ceramic and steel? Our guide to ceramic vs. steel body armor plates breaks it down.
Budget Alternatives and Why They Fall Short
Yes, there are cheaper side plates out there—but most are flat, heavy, and poorly coated. Some even corrode over time. You don't want to gamble with your ribs.
Pros and Cons of Hesco L110
What You'll Love
- Lightweight and buoyant
- Stops high-risk intermediate threats
- Comfortable single-curve design
- Weather-resistant coating
- Long service life
What to Consider
- Not rated for M80 or .30-06 threats
- More expensive than steel plates
- Must match with compatible carriers
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Right Side Plates
When it comes to balancing comfort, protection, and maneuverability, the Hesco L110 is in a league of its own. It's not the cheapest option, but it's one of the smartest investments if you take your protection seriously. If you've already dialed in your front and back armor, don't skip the sides—they're just as crucial. Looking for full front and back protection? Check out our in-depth review of the Hesco 4403 Level IV armor.
Conclusion
So, what's good about the Hesco L110? Just about everything that matters. It's lightweight, durable, and designed with purpose, making it ready to handle threats that most other plates can't. Whether you're gearing up for duty or prepping for uncertainty, this plate earns its spot on your kit.
FAQs About Hesco L110
What Rounds Can the Hesco L110 Stop?
It's built to stop special threats like 7.62×39 API and 5.56 M855 rounds—common armor-piercing and steel-core threats that fall outside the NIJ III/IV range.
Are the L110 Plates NIJ Certified?
They're NIJ tested, but since they're special threat plates, they fall outside traditional NIJ III/IV certification. However, they meet rigorous third-party and Hesco testing protocols.
Can Civilians Purchase the L110?
Yes, in most states, civilians can legally purchase and own the Hesco L110 unless prohibited by state-specific laws.
Do the L110 Plates Expire?
Hesco plates generally have a 5-year warranty and 10-year shelf life, depending on usage and storage.
How Should I Wear Side Plates?
Use a side plate-compatible cummerbund or pouch carrier. Position the plates between your lower ribs and armpit area for optimal coverage.
