AR500 Armor [Review]: All Threat Levels + Armor Piercing Rounds!

Published on April 30, 2019
Duration: 11:13

This review by Pew Pew Tactical thoroughly examines AR500 Armor's ballistic plates and carriers, detailing NIJ threat levels, material science behind spalling mitigation, and practical fitment advice. The expert analysis covers performance against various calibers, including armor-piercing rounds, and provides insights into different plate carrier models like the Invictus and Testudo.

Quick Summary

AR500 Armor's ballistic plates are tested against various NIJ threat levels. Level IIIA soft armor stops handguns, Level III steel stops .308, and Level IV ceramic stops .30-06 AP rounds. Fragmentation from steel plates is a concern, often mitigated by Paxcon coatings, while proper plate carrier fitment is crucial for vital coverage.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to AR500 Armor Testing
  2. 00:48NIJ Protection Levels Explained
  3. 02:22Plate Cuts and Fitment
  4. 03:25Trauma Pads and Coatings
  5. 04:26Ballistic Testing: Level 3A & 3
  6. 06:05Ballistic Testing: Level 3+ & 4
  7. 09:03Plate Carrier Overview

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different NIJ threat levels for body armor?

NIJ threat levels range from Level IIIA for handgun rounds up to .44 Magnum, to Level III for rifle rounds like .308 NATO, and Level IV for .30-06 Armor Piercing rounds, typically using ceramic composite plates.

How does Paxcon coating affect AR500 steel plates?

Paxcon coating, often a bedliner material, is applied to AR500 steel plates to mitigate fragmentation and spalling. This significantly reduces the risk of dangerous secondary projectiles upon impact.

What is considered proper plate carrier fitment?

Proper plate carrier fitment ensures the ballistic plates cover vital organs. The ideal coverage extends from the jugular notch at the top of the sternum down to just above the belly button, and side-to-side to cover both nipples.

What are the main concerns with AR500 steel armor?

The primary concerns with AR500 steel armor are its weight and the potential for fragmentation or spalling upon impact, which can create dangerous secondary projectiles. These issues can be mitigated with coatings and proper plate selection.

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