Armor in Tarkov is categorized by class (1-6) and material. Higher class armor offers better protection against higher penetration ammunition. However, it also comes with increased weight, reduced ergonomics, and slower movement speed.
| Armor Class | Protection Level | Common Threats |
|---|---|---|
| Class 1-2 | Minimal | Pistol rounds, low-tier shotgun pellets |
| Class 3 | Basic | Most pistol rounds, some SMG rounds |
| Class 4 | Standard | Common rifle rounds (e.g., 5.45 PS, 7.62 PS), most shotgun slugs |
| Class 5 | High | Mid-tier rifle rounds (e.g., 5.45 BP, 7.62 BP), some high-tier SMG rounds |
| Class 6 | Elite | High-penetration rifle rounds (e.g., 5.45 BS, 7.62 BP, M855A1) |
Key Considerations:
- Material: Different materials (e.g., Ceramic, Steel, Armored Steel, UHMWPE) have varying durability, repairability, and blunt damage reduction.
- Coverage: Some armors protect only the thorax, while others cover the stomach as well.
- Helmet vs. Headset: Helmets offer head protection, but often restrict hearing. Headsets (comtacs, sordins) amplify sound, giving a tactical advantage. Balance protection with situational awareness.
Choose armor appropriate for your budget and the threats you expect to face on a given map. Don't overspend on armor if you're using low-tier ammo, as it won't save you from high-penetration rounds.
Compare understanding armor and protection inMiscreated