BODY ARMOR FOR BEGINNERS!

Published on December 30, 2020
Duration: 27:30

This video provides a foundational understanding of body armor for beginners, covering its purpose, how to carry it (plate carriers and backpack integration), and the three primary material types: steel, ceramic, and polyethylene. It delves into the pros and cons of each, including weight, durability, multi-hit capability, spalling, and backface deformation. The guide also explains NIJ standards and the different protection levels (IIIA for pistol threats, III, III+, and IV for rifle threats), emphasizing the importance of choosing armor based on potential threats and operational context.

Quick Summary

Body armor protects vital organs from bullets and shrapnel. Key types include steel (durable, heavy, spalling risk), ceramic (lighter, can crack), and polyethylene (lightest, minimal spalling, fragile if dropped). NIJ standards (IIIA for pistols, III/III+/IV for rifles) define protection levels. Consider spalling and backface deformation when choosing.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Body Armor
  2. 00:47What is Body Armor For?
  3. 01:23How to Carry Body Armor
  4. 01:44Types of Body Armor: Steel
  5. 03:11Types of Body Armor: Ceramic
  6. 04:09Types of Body Armor: Polyethylene
  7. 06:40Body Armor Levels Explained (NIJ Standards)
  8. 09:04Level 1-3A Body Armor (Pistol Rated)
  9. 10:40Level 3 Body Armor (Rifle Rated)
  10. 11:27Level 3+ Body Armor
  11. 12:41Level 4 Body Armor (Highest Basic Level)
  12. 13:54Choosing Armor for Security Roles
  13. 15:03Recommended Body Armor Brands

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main types of body armor materials?

The three main types of body armor materials are steel, ceramic, and polyethylene (poly). Steel offers durability and multi-hit capability but is heavy and prone to spalling. Ceramic is lighter but can crack after impact. Polyethylene is the lightest, offers good protection, and has minimal spalling, but requires careful handling.

What is the difference between Level IIIA, Level III, and Level IV body armor?

Level IIIA armor is pistol-rated, protecting against handgun rounds like 9mm and .44 Magnum. Level III armor is the minimum for rifle protection, typically stopping 7.62x51 NATO. Level III+ specifically stops M855 'green tip' rounds, and Level IV is the highest basic level, designed to stop armor-piercing rifle rounds.

What is spalling and backface deformation in body armor?

Spalling is when fragments break off armor or a bullet upon impact, creating secondary projectiles. Backface deformation is the inward bulge of the armor after stopping a bullet, which can cause blunt force trauma to the wearer if excessive.

Why is NIJ certification important for body armor?

NIJ certification is crucial because it signifies that the body armor has been tested and meets the National Institute of Justice's established standards for ballistic resistance. This provides a reliable benchmark for protection levels, unlike manufacturer-specific ratings.

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