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

Published on April 30, 2019
Duration: 11:13

This review thoroughly tests AR500 Armor plates across multiple NIJ threat levels, including against armor-piercing rounds. It highlights the effectiveness and limitations of Level 3A, 3, 3+, and 4 plates, emphasizing the importance of coatings like Paxcon to mitigate spalling from steel plates. The video also covers plate cuts, fitment, and reviews various AR500 plate carriers.

Quick Summary

AR500 Armor plates are tested across NIJ threat levels. Level IIIA stops handguns, Level III stops .308, Level III+ stops faster 5.56mm, and Level IV ceramic stops .30-06 AP rounds. Coatings like Paxcon are crucial for mitigating spalling from steel plates.

Chapters

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different NIJ threat levels for body armor?

NIJ threat levels range from Level IIIA for handguns up to .44 Magnum, Level III for rifle rounds like .308 NATO, Level III+ for faster 5.56mm rounds, and Level IV for .30-06 armor-piercing rounds using ceramic composite plates.

How does spalling affect ballistic armor?

Spalling occurs when fragments of a bullet or the armor itself break off upon impact. This can create secondary projectiles that cause injury. Coatings like Paxcon on steel plates help mitigate spalling.

What is the proper way to fit body armor plates?

Proper plate fitment covers the vitals from the jugular notch (base of the neck) down to just above the belly button, ensuring coverage of both nipples for maximum protection.

Can AR500 steel plates stop armor-piercing rounds?

Standard AR500 steel plates are typically rated for Level III (e.g., .308 M80 ball). Stopping .30-06 M2 AP rounds requires Level IV ceramic composite plates, not standard steel.

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