CATI 3A+ Steel Plate vs Pistol Threats

This video details a rigorous testing protocol for RTS Tactical's Level IV ceramic composite armor plate, comparing it against their Level III+ steel armor. The ceramic plate successfully stopped multiple rifle rounds including 5.56x45mm, 7.62x39mm, .308 Winchester, and four .30-06 Springfield rounds before failing on the fifth .30-06 shot, demonstrating significant deformation but no penetration on the initial impacts. The test highlights the trade-offs between ceramic (lighter, more deformation) and steel (heavier, less deformation, potential fragmentation) armor systems.

Instruction from Roy at Barrel & Hatchet emphasizes investing in quality armor, specifically plate carriers and ballistic helmets, for comprehensive protection. The expert advises against using steel armor due to its limitations and stresses that quality life-safety equipment is a critical investment.

This video compares steel versus composite armor, discussing their pros and cons. Steel armor is presented as an affordable option with some drawbacks, while composite armor is highlighted as more expensive but lighter and more effective. The video emphasizes that it is recorded on a private range under professional supervision and includes disclaimers about not attempting the demonstrations at home, stating that all work should be performed by a trained professional. The content is strictly for educational and entertainment purposes, and viewers are warned about imitation at their own risk.

This expert-level guide from The VSO Gun Channel compares steel and polyethylene body armor, detailing their differences in weight, profile, durability, and cost. It highlights the importance of anti-spall layers, plate carrier compatibility, and considerations for water operations, offering practical insights for selecting appropriate ballistic protection.

This video explores the perceived fragility of ceramic body armor by testing its multi-hit capabilities. It demonstrates that ceramic plates can withstand multiple impacts from common rifle calibers, challenging the notion that they are not multi-hit rated. The presenter emphasizes that while steel armor is generally more durable against repeated hits, ceramic offers lighter weight and broader threat protection, making it a rational choice for many users.

This video tests a CATI Level 3A Plus steel pistol-rated armor plate against 12-gauge 4-buckshot and supersonic 300 Blackout 147-grain FMJ ammunition. While the plate stopped both threats, it showed signs of cracking and bulging under the rifle round, indicating it is not designed for rifle protection. The test highlights the plate's superior performance compared to Level 3A soft armor, particularly in managing back face deformation.

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.