NIJ 0101.07 Armour Protection Levels
NIJ HG2 (formerly Level IIIA):
Test ammunition:
- 9 mm FMJ RN weighing 8.0 g (124 grain) and with a velocity of 448 m/s ± 9.1 m/s (faster than HG1).
- .44 Magnum SJHP (semi-jacketed hollow point) weighing 15.6 g (240 grain) and with a velocity of 436 m/s ± 9.1 m/s.
Technical features: HG2 replaces the former .357 SIG FMJ flat nose ammunition with faster 9 mm RN projectiles, making the test conditions more stringent. It is the highest level for soft ballistics, providing protection against virtually all common small arms threats, including heavier calibres such as .44 Magnum.
Objective: The tests also include perforation-backface deformation (P-BFD) testing, where backface deformation (trauma) is limited to a maximum of 44 mm to minimise blunt force injuries.
