$20 Body Armor: Only 3 ingredients…

Published on September 7, 2025
Duration: 5:30

This guide details the construction of a DIY body armor plate using readily available materials like ceramic tiles, a fiberglass welding blanket, and duct tape, costing approximately $23. The video demonstrates its performance against 9mm and .223 FMJ rounds, noting it stopped both but was penetrated by 5.56 Green Tip (M855). While not recommended for personal protection, it's presented as a viable option for reinforcing walls or other non-wearable applications. The instructor's expertise is evident in the practical demonstration and comparison to commercial armor plates.

Quick Summary

The $20 DIY body armor, constructed from ceramic tiles, fiberglass welding blanket, and duct tape, costs approximately $23. It successfully stopped 9mm and .223 FMJ rounds but was penetrated by 5.56 Green Tip. The instructor advises against using it for personal protection, suggesting it for reinforcing structures instead.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: $20 Body Armor
  2. 00:12Ingredients & Cost
  3. 00:28Construction Process
  4. 00:39Thickness Comparison
  5. 00:53Potential Applications & Test Plan
  6. 01:54Sponsor Message: Aura
  7. 02:549mm Test Results
  8. 03:28223 FMJ Test Results
  9. 04:14556 Green Tip Test Results
  10. 04:43Green Tip Ammunition Clarification
  11. 05:11Final Assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

What materials are needed to make $20 DIY body armor?

To construct the $20 DIY body armor, you will need two ceramic tiles, a fiberglass welding blanket (often found at Harbor Freight), and duct tape. The total estimated cost for these materials is around $23.

How effective is the $20 DIY body armor against different calibers?

The DIY body armor plate successfully stopped 9mm and .223 FMJ rounds during testing. However, it was penetrated by 5.56 Green Tip ammunition, indicating its limitations against certain rifle calibers.

Is the DIY body armor recommended for personal protection?

No, the instructor explicitly states that this DIY body armor is not recommended for life protection. Its potential applications are suggested for reinforcing walls or doors rather than wearable ballistic defense.

What is the difference between M855 Green Tip and M995 Black Tip 5.56 ammunition?

M855 Green Tip 5.56 ammunition has a mild steel core, while M995 Black Tip is considered truly armor-piercing due to its tungsten core. The Green Tip performed better than standard .223/5.56 in the test due to its core composition.

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