AR500 Armor vs 458 SOCOM

Published on July 6, 2015
Duration: 6:39

This video provides an expert-level test of AR500 Armor Level III steel plates against the potent .458 SOCOM cartridge, fired from a custom AR-15. The assessment, conducted by experienced firearms testers, details the impact dynamics, energy transfer, and the effectiveness of the anti-spalling coating. The conclusion highlights the armor's ability to withstand significant ballistic energy, demonstrating its protective capabilities in a high-threat scenario.

Quick Summary

Experts from Iraqveteran8888 tested AR500 Armor Level III steel plates against the .458 SOCOM cartridge. The 1/4-inch thick plates, featuring an anti-spalling coating, withstood multiple high-energy impacts (nearly 2300 ft-lbs each) without penetration, though some rear deformation and coating damage occurred.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Equipment Overview
  2. 01:07First Shot Test
  3. 02:04Initial Impact Analysis
  4. 03:23Rapid Fire Stress Test
  5. 03:47Final Inspection and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

How does AR500 Armor Level III perform against .458 SOCOM rounds?

AR500 Armor Level III steel plates, 1/4 inch thick with anti-spalling coating, successfully stopped multiple .458 SOCOM impacts (300-grain Lehigh Xtreme Penetrator at ~1840 fps) without penetration, though rear deformation and coating peeling were observed.

What are the key components of the custom AR-15 used in the test?

The custom AR-15 featured a Tromix upper receiver, Troy rail, Geissele SSA trigger, and a Vortex Razor 1-6x optic, chambered in the potent .458 SOCOM caliber.

What is the significance of the anti-spalling coating on AR500 armor?

The anti-spalling coating on AR500 armor is designed to capture projectile fragments upon impact, preventing dangerous ricochets and secondary fragmentation, thereby enhancing shooter safety during ballistic testing or engagement.

Can .458 SOCOM ammunition defeat AR500 Level III armor?

Based on this test, the .458 SOCOM round, even with high-energy projectiles like the 300-grain Lehigh Xtreme Penetrator, did not penetrate the AR500 Level III steel plate, demonstrating the armor's resilience.

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