7.62x25mm vs. IIIA Body Armor

Published on January 29, 2015
Duration: 9:17

This ballistic test reveals that 7.62x25mm Tokarev ammunition, fired from a Polish Circle 11 pistol, can penetrate Level IIIA body armor after an initial successful stop. The test also highlights how standard 5.56mm rifle rounds from an AR pistol easily defeat the same armor, questioning current legal definitions of 'handgun' ammunition effectiveness against soft armor. Additionally, the video explains the fire hazard posed by steel-cased ammo in indoor ranges.

Quick Summary

The 7.62x25mm Tokarev round can penetrate Level IIIA body armor, as shown when a second shot went through the armor and 9 inches into ballistic gel. Standard 5.56mm rounds from AR pistols also easily defeat IIIA armor.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Test Setup: Tokarev vs. IIIA Armor
  2. 01:23Tokarev Pistol History & 7.62x25mm Specs
  3. 02:58Ballistic Test: 7.62x25mm Penetrates Armor
  4. 04:485.56mm AR Pistol vs. IIIA Armor Comparison
  5. 06:20Range Safety: Steel Case Fire Hazard Explained

Frequently Asked Questions

Can 7.62x25mm Tokarev ammunition penetrate Level IIIA body armor?

Yes, in a ballistic test, the second 7.62x25mm round fired at the same spot successfully penetrated Spartan Armor Systems Level IIIA body armor and entered ballistic gel approximately 9 inches deep.

Does 5.56mm from an AR pistol penetrate Level IIIA body armor?

Yes, a standard 55-grain M193 5.56mm ball round fired from an 8-inch AR-15 pistol easily defeated the same Level IIIA body armor, highlighting the effectiveness of rifle calibers.

Why are steel-cased bullets sometimes banned at indoor ranges?

Steel-cased ammunition is often banned at indoor ranges not because of trap damage, but due to sparks generated upon impact igniting unburnt gunpowder residue left on the range floor, creating a fire hazard.

What are the performance characteristics of the 7.62x25mm Tokarev cartridge?

The 7.62x25mm cartridge is known as a 'hot rod,' capable of launching 85-90 grain projectiles around 1300 feet per second with relatively low recoil but significant muzzle flash.

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