Ballistic Penetration Testing

Published on July 22, 2013
Duration: 16:52

This ballistic penetration test compares AR500 steel plates against standard hot-rolled steel of varying thicknesses. Results show AR500 reliably stops high-velocity rifle rounds like .308 and SS109, while mild steel offers minimal protection against these threats. Thicker mild steel can stop some pistol and lower-power rifle rounds but is easily defeated by armor-piercing ammunition.

Quick Summary

AR500 steel is specifically hardened for ballistic resistance, making it far superior to standard hot-rolled steel for stopping high-velocity rifle rounds. Mild steel, even in thicker gauges like 3/8", is easily penetrated by common rifle threats such as .308 and armor-piercing rounds.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Ballistic Test Setup
  2. 00:44Materials: AR500, Mild Steel, Kevlar, Goggles
  3. 01:46Firearms & Ammo: .308, 5.56, 7.62x39, 9mm
  4. 02:30AR500 Steel Plate Test Results
  5. 03:131/4" Hot Rolled Steel Penetration Test
  6. 07:053/8" Hot Rolled Steel Penetration Test
  7. 10:18Kevlar Helmet & Goggles Test
  8. 13:46Conclusion: AR500 vs Mild Steel

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between AR500 steel and standard hot-rolled steel for ballistic protection?

AR500 steel is specifically heat-treated and hardened for ballistic resistance, making it significantly more effective at stopping high-velocity rifle rounds than standard hot-rolled steel, which is much softer and easily penetrated.

Can 1/4" or 3/8" mild steel stop rifle rounds like .223 or .308?

No, 1/4" hot-rolled steel is easily penetrated by .223, 7.62x39, and .308 rounds. While 3/8" steel stops some standard .223 and 7.62x39, it is still penetrated by armor-piercing rounds and .308 variants.

What kind of protection do Kevlar helmets and ballistic goggles offer?

Kevlar helmet material can stop pistol rounds like 9mm but is defeated by rifle rounds. Bobster ballistic goggles stop .22 LR but are penetrated by 9mm, indicating they are primarily for fragment protection, not direct fire.

Which type of steel is recommended for reliable body armor against rifle threats?

For reliable protection against high-velocity rifle fire, dedicated armor steel like AR500 is necessary. Standard mild steel, even in thicker gauges, does not provide adequate resistance against these threats.

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