Body Armor for Civilians in 2022

Published on June 17, 2022
Duration: 11:19

This video provides a practical demonstration of civilian body armor performance, testing various NIJ levels and types against different ballistic threats. The presenters, with apparent expertise in firearms and tactical gear, showcase the capabilities and limitations of soft armor and composite plates. Key takeaways include the effectiveness of Level 3A against common handgun calibers, the superior protection of Level 3 and 4 plates against rifle rounds, and the critical factors of velocity and projectile type in defeating armor.

Quick Summary

This video demonstrates the ballistic performance of civilian body armor, including Level 3A soft armor and Level 3 and 4 composite plates. Tests show 3A effectively stops handgun rounds but can be defeated by high-velocity rifle projectiles. Level 3 and 4 plates provide protection against rifle threats, though impacts can cause significant deformation and some spalling.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Body Armor Testing
  2. 00:19Armor Types and Levels Explained
  3. 00:57Testing Level 3A Soft Armor with Handgun Rounds
  4. 02:01Testing 3A Soft Armor with Torch Round
  5. 03:56Testing Defender 3A Composite Plate
  6. 05:21Testing Level 3 Composite Plate
  7. 06:15Testing Level 3 Plate with .308 Rounds
  8. 07:30Testing Level 4 Plate
  9. 07:44Level 4 Plate vs. M855A1 Rounds
  10. 08:57Level 4 Plate vs. 12-Gauge Magnum Slug
  11. 10:16Body Armor Injury vs. Life Saving
  12. 11:02Conclusion and Research Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the NIJ ratings for the body armor tested?

The video tests Level 3A soft armor, rated for handgun rounds up to .357 Magnum and .44 Magnum. It also tests Level 3 composite plates, rated for rifle rounds up to 7.62x39mm FMJ, and Level 4 composite plates, rated for armor-piercing 30 caliber ammunition.

Can Level 3A soft armor stop rifle rounds?

Generally, Level 3A soft armor is not designed to stop rifle rounds. In this test, a high-velocity 'Torch Round' fired from a PCC at over 2400 fps was able to defeat the 3A soft armor, highlighting the importance of velocity and projectile type.

What is spalling in relation to body armor?

Spalling refers to fragments that break off from the projectile or the armor upon impact. While the tested Level 4 plate stopped M855A1 rounds, some spalling occurred, which could be mitigated by a plate carrier. Ceramic plates can also produce shards.

Does body armor prevent injury?

Body armor is designed to save lives by preventing penetration, but it does not guarantee the wearer will be uninjured. Significant impacts can cause severe backface deformation, leading to injuries like fractured sternums, though the wearer likely remains in the fight.

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