PSM Shooting: 5.45x18mm vs 7.62x25mm on Soft Armor

Published on July 1, 2017
Duration: 6:02

This Forgotten Weapons video compares the armor penetration capabilities of the 5.45x18mm PSM and the 7.62x25mm Tokarev rounds against NIJ Level 3A soft body armor. While both calibers penetrate the vest, the 7.62x25mm Tokarev demonstrates significantly more energy transfer and physical damage to the armor and backing material compared to the cleaner penetration of the 5.45x18mm.

Quick Summary

The 5.45x18mm PSM round successfully penetrates NIJ Level 3A soft body armor, as does the 7.62x25mm Tokarev. However, the Tokarev round transfers significantly more energy and causes greater physical damage to the armor and backing material compared to the PSM.

Chapters

  1. 00:00PSM Handling and Comparison
  2. 01:35Steel Target Impact Test
  3. 02:08Soft Armor Penetration Test: PSM
  4. 03:18Soft Armor Penetration Test: Tokarev
  5. 04:30Ballistic Comparison and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the 5.45x18mm PSM pistol round penetrate NIJ Level 3A soft body armor?

Yes, in the test conducted by Forgotten Weapons, all five rounds of 5.45x18mm FMJ fired from the PSM pistol successfully penetrated NIJ Level 3A soft body armor and the plywood backing behind it.

How does the 7.62x25mm Tokarev round compare to the 5.45x18mm PSM against soft body armor?

The 7.62x25mm Tokarev round also penetrated NIJ Level 3A soft body armor, with four out of five rounds passing through. However, the Tokarev imparted significantly more energy and physical damage to the vest compared to the cleaner penetration of the PSM.

What was the result of testing the 5.45x18mm round on a steel target?

When tested against a 1/4 inch thick steel pistol target, the 5.45x18mm rounds from the PSM pistol only left marks on the surface. There was no significant dimpling or penetration observed on the steel plate.

What is the PSM pistol known for in terms of handling and recoil?

The PSM pistol is recognized for its exceptionally thin profile, making it easy to conceal. Its recoil is described as minimal, comparable to that of a .22 caliber firearm, contributing to its manageable handling.

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