AR500 Armor UHMWPE Level III 3.3lb Armor Plate Test & Review

Published on April 12, 2019
Duration: 14:16

This review of AR500 Armor's UHMWPE Level III plates highlights their significant weight advantage over ceramic options, weighing only 3.3 lbs each. The plates are NIJ certified and demonstrated effectiveness against standard rifle rounds like 7.62x39mm and 5.56x45mm M193, while correctly noting their limitation against M855 and AP rounds. The multi-hit capability was also tested, showing resilience until rounds were concentrated in a small area.

Quick Summary

AR500 Armor's UHMWPE Level III plates weigh only 3.3 lbs each, offering a significant weight reduction over ceramic options. They are NIJ certified to stop standard rifle rounds like 7.62x39mm and 5.56x45mm M193, but will not stop M855 or AP rounds. Integrated padding helps manage backface deformation.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to UHMWPE Plates
  2. 01:06Level III vs. Level IV Ratings Explained
  3. 02:50Ballistic Test: 7.62x39mm
  4. 03:26Ballistic Test: 5.56x45mm M193
  5. 04:08Ballistic Test: 5.56x45mm M855 (Failure)
  6. 06:58Multi-Hit Capability Test
  7. 09:40Features and NIJ Certification
  8. 11:46Cost and Final Assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the weight of AR500 Armor's UHMWPE Level III plates?

AR500 Armor's UHMWPE Level III plates weigh approximately 3.3 pounds each. This is significantly lighter than traditional Level IV ceramic plates, which often weigh around 8 pounds, making them a more comfortable option for extended wear.

What types of ammunition can AR500 Armor's UHMWPE Level III plates stop?

These Level III plates are rated to stop standard rifle rounds including 7.62x51mm M80, 5.56x45mm M193, and 7.62x39mm. They are not designed to stop armor-piercing rounds or specialized ammunition like M855.

Are AR500 Armor's UHMWPE Level III plates NIJ certified?

Yes, the AR500 Armor UHMWPE Level III plates reviewed are officially NIJ certified. This means they have undergone rigorous independent testing to meet the National Institute of Justice's ballistic protection standards.

How does backface deformation affect UHMWPE plates?

UHMWPE plates incorporate integrated padding to manage backface deformation. This is the depth the plate indents upon impact, which is a crucial factor in determining the potential for blunt force trauma to the wearer.

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