Can Level III Armor Survive UNRATED Threats at Range?

Published on August 28, 2021
Duration: 12:38

This video from Iraqveteran8888 features an expert-level test of the RMA Model 1078 Level III armor plate. The instructor, Eric, demonstrates that while the plate can stop standard NIJ threats like M80 Ball, it is vulnerable to unrated threats such as M855 and 7.62x54R, even at extended ranges. The testing highlights the critical importance of using armor rated for specific threats.

Quick Summary

Level III armor, like the RMA Model 1078 tested, is only rated for specific threats such as 7.62x51mm M80 Ball. It is not designed to stop armor-piercing or steel-tipped rounds like M855 or 7.62x54R, which can penetrate the plate even at extended ranges.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: RMA Model 1078 Armor Test
  2. 00:54Understanding Standoff Ballistic Testing
  3. 02:44NIJ Standard Test: M80 Ball vs Level III Armor
  4. 04:43100 Yard Test: M855 Ball vs Level III Armor
  5. 06:17200 Yard Test: M855 Ball vs Level III Armor
  6. 08:01277 Yard Test: M855 & 7.62x54R vs Level III Armor
  7. 09:05Conclusion: Level III Armor Limitations

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Level III armor stop M855 rounds?

No, Level III armor is not rated for M855 (5.56x45mm NATO) steel-tipped rounds. Testing shows that M855 rounds consistently penetrate Level III armor, even at extended ranges like 100 yards and beyond.

What is the purpose of standoff testing for body armor?

Standoff testing involves firing unrated threats at armor from increased distances. The goal is to see if the reduction in projectile velocity due to range is enough for the armor to stop a round it's not officially rated for.

What threats does NIJ Level III armor protect against?

According to NIJ 0101.06 standards, Level III armor is designed to stop specific rifle threats like 7.62x51mm M80 Ball ammunition fired at specified velocities. It is not designed for armor-piercing or steel-core ammunition.

What was the outcome of testing 7.62x54R against Level III armor?

Testing showed that 7.62x54R light ball ammunition, even at 277 yards, easily penetrated the RMA Model 1078 Level III armor plate, demonstrating its inadequacy against this type of threat.

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