FAIL - Ballistic Helmet made in China

Published on April 13, 2023
Duration: 2:11

This video provides an expert-level assessment of an AliExpress ballistic helmet, highlighting critical flaws in its performance despite claims of NIJ Level IIIA certification. The instructor, Ziga, demonstrates significant backface deformation across various calibers, indicating a high risk of traumatic brain injury even when projectiles are stopped. The review emphasizes the importance of understanding deformation limits beyond just penetration resistance.

Quick Summary

An expert review of an AliExpress Ballistic Helmet reveals critical failures in meeting NIJ Level IIIA standards due to excessive backface deformation. Despite stopping various calibers including 9x19mm and 7.62x25mm, the helmet's significant indentation poses a high risk of traumatic brain injury, rendering its protective value questionable.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Material Specs
  2. 00:31Low Caliber Testing (.22 LR, .32 ACP)
  3. 01:07Handgun Caliber Testing (9x19mm, 7.62x25mm)
  4. 01:43Shotgun Slug Test (12 gauge)

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key performance issues with the AliExpress Ballistic Helmet tested?

The primary issue is excessive backface deformation, even when stopping projectiles. This means the helmet indents significantly, posing a high risk of traumatic brain injury despite not being penetrated. This failure was observed across multiple calibers, including .22 LR, .32 ACP, 9x19mm, 7.62x25mm, and a 12 gauge slug.

Does the AliExpress Ballistic Helmet meet NIJ Level IIIA standards?

Based on the observed backface deformation, the helmet appears to fail the critical requirements for NIJ Level IIIA certification. While it stopped projectiles, the deformation exceeded acceptable limits, indicating it would not adequately protect a wearer from severe blunt force trauma.

What materials is the AliExpress Ballistic Helmet made from?

The helmet is stated to be made from High Density Polyethylene (HDP). This material contributes to it being relatively lightweight compared to some standard ballistic helmets, but it did not prevent significant deformation under impact.

What calibers were tested against the ballistic helmet?

The testing included .22 LR, .32 ACP, 9x19mm, 7.62x25mm, and a 12 gauge shotgun slug. The helmet stopped all projectiles, but the backface deformation was a critical failure point in most tests.

More Tactical & Gear Videos You Might Like

More from Polenar Tactical

View all →