Can Soft Armor Stop a Rifle Bullet?

This video demonstrates a ballistic test of a SecDefense USA Level IIIA Bulletproof Mask using a watermelon as a target. The mask is tested against various calibers, including .22LR, 9mm, .357 Magnum, and 5.56 NATO. While it stops handgun rounds, the 5.56 NATO rifle round penetrates as expected for Level IIIA soft armor. The testing is conducted in a casual, experimental, and informative tone by an enthusiast reviewer.

This video from Louisiana Firearms humorously tests the ballistic resistance of a Lodge Cast Iron Skillet against various calibers, from 9mm to .50 BMG. The instructor, demonstrating experienced firearm handling, compares the penetration and damage inflicted by each round. While presented with entertainment value, the segment offers insights into projectile performance against a dense, non-standard material, highlighting the destructive power of larger calibers.

This video from Polenar Tactical showcases an extreme test of a Protection Group Denmark U-line ESAPI XL ballistic plate. The plate, rated NIJ Level 4 (0101.06) and designed to stop a .30-06 M2 AP round, is subjected to non-standard testing including drops, fire, and multiple high-impact rifle rounds. The demonstration highlights the plate's robust construction and protective capabilities beyond typical testing parameters, as assessed by experienced tactical gear reviewers.

This video demonstrates a ballistic test to determine if forklift forks can stop various firearm rounds, from .22 LR up to .50 BMG. The test, conducted by an experienced individual, shows that while forklift forks can stop many common handgun and rifle rounds, they are penetrated by the .50 BMG round. The results provide practical insights into the ballistic resistance of steel under extreme impact.

This video tests the ballistic resistance of a Soviet-era hammer against various calibers. While smaller rounds like .22 LR caused minimal damage, larger calibers like 9mm, 7.62x39mm, .223 Remington, and .308 Winchester inflicted progressively more damage, with the .308 ultimately causing significant structural failure to the hammer's handle.

This guide details a practical test of expired soft body armor, demonstrating its performance against handgun caliber rounds. Chief Instructor Ernie Medina of Tap Rack Bang, LLC, explains that while materials degrade, expired armor may still offer some protection, though it shouldn't be relied upon for primary duty use. The test highlights the importance of understanding ballistic warranties and material limitations.

This video features a critique of a home defense AR-15 build by former Navy SEAL Jeff Gonzales. Key takeaways include the importance of a suppressor for indoor use, the critique of an overly complex sling, and recommendations for reliable optics. The discussion highlights the trade-offs of short-barreled rifles (SBRs) for home defense and emphasizes practical gear selection over complexity.

This guide details the tool-less field stripping process for the Beretta ARX-160, as demonstrated by a Beretta factory representative. It covers the quick-release barrel, stock, trigger group, and bolt assembly, emphasizing ease of maintenance. The representative highlights the rifle's modularity and ambidextrous features, noting its current military availability with future civilian plans.

This entry details the Fostech .50 Cal Drum Magazine, designed for Barrett M107 and 82A1 rifles, featuring a 20-round capacity and billet machined aluminum construction. It also touches upon the Fostech Rader .308 rifle. The information is presented with high technical focus from a manufacturer representative.

This video from ARFCOM News details a ballistic gel test of Remington's 158gr SJHP .357 Magnum ammunition fired from a 16-inch Rossi Model M92 carbine. The test highlights how carbine-length barrels significantly enhance .357 Magnum performance, achieving velocities comparable to some .300 Blackout loads and demonstrating substantial penetration and expansion in ballistic gel. The analysis touches on terminal ballistics theories and the unique behavior of high-velocity pistol rounds fired from rifles.