Do bulletproof masks actually work? Ballistic test.

Edwin Sarkissian, an experienced firearms influencer, conducts rigorous ballistic testing on the RTS Tactical Level 3A Bulletproof Pillow. The pillow, designed with memory foam and an internal ballistic panel, is tested against calibers ranging from .22 Magnum up to .50 AE, including popular handguns like the HK VP9 Match and Desert Eagle. The testing demonstrates the pillow's capability to stop rounds effectively, highlighting its potential as a defensive tool with integrated arm straps for shield-like use.

This video tests the performance of an affordable Bullet Safe NIJ Level 3A body armor vest and a ballistic cap against various handgun and pistol calibers, including 9mm, .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, .30 Super Carry, 7.5 FK, 5.7x28mm, .460 S&W, and 7.62x39mm. The testing focuses on backface deformation using ballistic clay to assess the impact energy transferred through the armor, demonstrating the vest's ability to stop common handgun threats while highlighting its limitations against rifle calibers.

This video tests the ballistic resistance of the Tardigrade Industries Maxilla face mask against various calibers. The mask, rated to Level IIIA, successfully stopped .22 LR, 9mm, and .45 ACP rounds with minimal damage. While not rated for .223 Remington, it also stopped this round, though it resulted in a visible dent on both sides.

This video demonstrates the ballistic performance of a Premier Body Armor Fortis Level 3A helmet against various handgun calibers, from .22 LR up to .500 Magnum. Using a ballistic dummy head, the test assesses the helmet's ability to stop rounds and mitigate backface deformation. While the helmet successfully stopped all tested calibers, significant deformation occurred with higher-powered rounds, and the .500 Magnum ultimately caused catastrophic damage to the dummy head, indicating potential survivability issues with extreme calibers.

This video conducts a comparative ballistic test between a US Army IHPS (Integrated Head Protection System) helmet and a Chinese-made helmet, evaluating their performance against various calibers including .22 LR, 9mm, .44 Magnum, and 5.56x45mm rifle rounds at different distances. The testing focuses on penetration and backface deformation, crucial metrics for helmet survivability. The instructor notes that while helmets are not typically rated for rifle rounds, they can offer protection at longer ranges or oblique angles.

This video provides an in-depth ballistic test of the Premier Body Armor Level 3 Strata Shield, designed for home protection. The presenter, with clear expertise in firearms and tactical gear, systematically tests the shield against various handgun and rifle calibers, including 9mm, .44 Magnum, 5.56x45mm, 7.62x39mm, and .308 Winchester. The testing also includes extreme bonus rounds like .45-70 Government and .375 H&H Magnum to demonstrate the shield's limits and backface deformation characteristics.

This guide details the proper technique for safely loading the M1 Garand, specifically addressing the common 'Garand Thumb' phenomenon. It emphasizes maintaining downward pressure on the en-bloc clip during loading to prevent the bolt from slamming forward prematurely. Expert instruction from Garand Thumb highlights this as a key safety measure for new shooters.

This comprehensive review of the Russian Altyn helmet, presented by Garand Thumb, details its construction and ballistic performance. The helmet features a 3mm titanium shell with an aramid liner, rated for pistol and fragmentation threats. Testing reveals it stops 9mm and .44 Magnum rounds but fails against rifle calibers like 5.56x45mm and 7.62x39mm. Despite its robust construction for its intended role, its significant weight and lack of rifle protection are noted as drawbacks compared to modern alternatives.

This guide details the correct technique for loading the M1 Garand rifle, specifically addressing how to avoid 'Garand Thumb.' It emphasizes the 'bladed hand' method, a crucial technique for safe and efficient loading demonstrated by the speaker. Proper execution involves a swift, decisive motion to seat the en-bloc clip while protecting the thumb from the forward-moving bolt.

This video by Garand Thumb investigates the lethality of the .22 LR pistol, challenging common underestimations. Through ballistic testing on a realistic dummy, it demonstrates that while lacking raw power, precise shot placement, especially to the head and vital organs, can be devastating. Rapid fire is also shown to compensate for the caliber's lower individual round energy.