A modular armor system is provided. The modular armor system includes an encasement for holding one or more interior plate, thereby providing a variety of protection options. The encasement is moveable from an open configuration to a closed configuration. In the open configuration, a user can inspect plate conditions and configurations prior to using such system, thereby allowing the user to replace damaged plates and/or to change plate configurations. The system is configured to allow bullets to penetrate the encasement, thereby reducing impact to users while reducing shrapnel associated with bullet spalling. By including one or more penetrable, buffer, retaining, or other plate within the encasement, users can further decrease impact and/or other risks associated with the same.