Ballistics
Subcategories
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Soft ballistics
Soft ballistics is the flexible basis for modern body protection. Depending on the cut and carrier system, it is particularly suitable for police, security, personal protection and the military. The decisive factors are protection level, fit and compatibility with your carrier system.
Quickly find the right carrier category:
Further information: What trauma protection does - protecting emergency services correctly
What is soft ballistics (soft ballistics)?
Soft ballistics is a flexible ballistic insert that is inserted into the pockets provided in plate carriers or protective vests. It is designed for comfort and mobility and is often used where a setup is to remain wearable over a longer period of time.
- Flexible and can be worn close to the body
- Different cuts for different coverage
- Modularly expandable (depending on system and configuration)
Protective areas and cut-outs
Depending on the setup, different areas can be equipped:
- Upper body (front/back) - e.g. in SAPI cut-out
- Side areas - side panels/cummerbund (depending on the carrier system)
- Optional additional areas - e.g. neck/neck, upper arms or abdomen (depending on the equipment concept)
How to choose the right soft ballistics
- Clarify the mission profile: Police, security, personal protection or military - including wearing time and movement profile.
- Check the protection class: The specific details for each product are relevant (e.g. VPAM in the item details).
- Determine the cut: The shape and dimensions must match the carrier (e.g. SAPI-Cut or side panels).
- Match the carrier system: Pocket dimensions, insertion depth and fit determine comfort and function.
Matching categories to combine:
- Plate carriers (modular, depending on configuration)
- Protective vest covers (carrying covers for different application profiles)
Modular combination: Trauma protection as a useful addition
Even if a protective solution stops a hit, the impact energy can put a lot of strain on the body. Depending on the configuration, trauma protection can be a useful addition to the setup - especially with modular systems (plate carrier/protective vest + inserts).
Background & explanation: What trauma protection does - protecting emergency services correctly
Note on compatibility
Many inserts can also be used in carrier systems from other manufacturers. However, the cut and dimensions of the insert and the specifications of your vest or plate carrier are always decisive.
Frequently asked questions about soft ballistics
Who is soft ballistics particularly suitable for?
Soft ballistics are often used when a portable, flexible body protection set-up is required - for example for police, security, personal protection or military applications (depending on the job and wearing system).Plate carrier or protective vest - which is better?
Both are possible. The decisive factor is which carrier system you use and which cuts are intended for it. Use the categories plate carriers and protective vest sleeves.What does VPAM mean for soft ballistics?
VPAM is a common test/classification basis. The specific information for each product in the article details is relevant. -
Hard ballistics
Hard ballistics for protective vests and plate carriers
Here you can find hard ballistics according to the protection class SK4 or NIJ level iv. These ballistic protection plates are an important component when it comes to trauma protection with large caliber ammunition. SK4 plates and standalone plates are inserted into the ballistic slots of body armor and other tactical equipment such as plate carriers.
The ballistic plates protect the chest and back area at the level of the heart. With so-called side plates, they additionally increase their body protection. These plates are placed in cummerbunds of vests and plate carriers.
For more information on the subject of hard ballistics, see for example this detailed article on ballistic protection classes. -
Exercise inserts
Exercise inserts - realistic training for deployment
Exercise inserts for plate carriers, body armor, upper arm protection cover and neck protection cover
In the category of exercise inserts at Zentauron you will find special inserts that serve as placeholders for body protection and are designed for exercise purposes. Our exercise inserts are made of closed cell PE foam encased in a durable cover.
Training insert Non-Ballistic Thor - Perfect complement for the protective vest Thor
The Non-Ballistic insert, designed specifically for the Thor protective v est, provides you with additional protection during exercises and training sessions. This insert is available in black, olive and coyote and is worn in the insert compartment of the vest. It serves as a placeholder and supplement for protective inserts. The training insert is made of closed cell PE foam with a durable waterproof polyamide cover. It provides protection from Simonition (FX bullets), paintball or airsoft bullets. When used with a Level 4 Standalone plate, this insert enhances trauma protection and acts as a cushion.
Practice Inlay Non-Ballistic Neck Protection - Lightweight with additional padding.
The Non-Ballistic Neck Protection Practice Insert is specifically designed to be used as a placeholder in the neck protection sleeve. This set is available in black, olive and coyote. The cut of the insert is the same as the ballistic inserts, providing a snug fitting solution. The exercise insert is lightweight and provides additional padding for the neck area. It is made of closed cell PE foam with a durable waterproof polyamide cover. The Non-Ballistics Insert provides protection from Simonition (FX bullets), paintball or airsoft bullets and can provide enhanced trauma protection when combined with a Level 4 Standalone Plate.
Practice Inlay Non-Ballistic Upper Arm Protection - Custom-fit solution for ballistic upper arm protection.
The Non-Ballistics Practice Insert is specifically designed to fit the sleeve of the Ballistic Upper Arm Protection and serves as a placeholder. This set is available in black, olive and coyote. The insert matches the cut of the ballistic inserts and provides additional padding. It is made of closed cell PE foam with a durable waterproof polyamide cover. The Non-Ballistic Insert provides protection from Simonition (FX bullets), Paintball or Airsoft bullets and can provide enhanced trauma protection when used with a Level 4 Standalone Plate.
Note: Zentauron Non-Ballistic Training Inserts do not provide ballistic protection and are not stab or cut resistant.
Perfect for use in airsoft, target practice or other training activities where a realistic feel and added protection are desired.
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Splinter protection
Splinter protection (soft ballistics) supplements your plate carrier or protective vest with additional coverage where rigid plates alone are often not sufficient: Neck, abdomen and side areas. The flexible soft ballistic inserts are designed for a modular setup - for more protective surface area and high wearing comfort at the same time.
What is splinter protection (soft ballistics)?
Splinter protection refers to flexible ballistic inserts that are inserted into matching pockets and modules. Soft ballistics adapt to the body and are particularly suitable for areas where mobility, a close fit and a clean finish of the protective surface are important - ideal as additional protection to existing systems. You can find an overview of inserts and plates in our ballistics category.
Which areas can you cover?
Depending on the carrier system and intended use, you can add specific zones:
- Chest & back area, (plate carrier / protective vest inserts): The central basic protection which, depending on the system, is covered by hard ballistics (plates) and/or soft ballistics inserts (protective vests/undergarment protection). Suitable sizes, cut and compatibility with the carrier or vest are important.
- Neck protection / neck area: Supplements the cover in the upper area and can be combined with suitable modules.
- Abdominal/lower abdomen protection: Additional protective surface in the lower front area - without unnecessarily losing mobility.
- Side protection (in pairs): Extension of the side cover, particularly useful in combination with corresponding side pockets/modules.
Tip: Many systems are modular. Add splinter protection exactly where it suits your carrying style - from a slimline setup to more comprehensive coverage.
How to find the right insert
- Compatibility: Is there a suitable compartment/module? Does the shape and cut fit?
- Size & fit: insoles should fit close to the body without being tight or slipping.
- Combinations: Which areas do you really want to cover (neck, abdomen, sides)?
- Protection class: Choose the protection class to suit the possible threat situation and follow the information in the product data.
- Wearing comfort: Weight, freedom of movement and ventilation play a major role, especially for long periods of wear.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Can I combine splinter protection with hard plates?
Yes, soft ballistics are often used as a supplement to cover protective surfaces outside the plate area.How can I tell whether the insert fits into my system?
The decisive factors are the dimensions, cut to size and a suitable mounting compartment in the respective module or carrier system.How do I care for soft ballistics?
Store inserts in a dry and protected place, clean sleeves/carriers according to the manufacturer's instructions and do not subject the inserts themselves to unnecessary mechanical stress.Splinter protection from Zentauron - Made in Germany
Zentauron splinter protection components are designed for modular equipment and are made in Germany. Choose the right splinter guard for your neck, abdomen or sides - tailored to your setup and your requirements.