How Bullets Effect Ceramic & AR500 Body Armor

Published on March 18, 2016
Duration: 14:15

This expert-level guide details the process of testing ballistic armor, specifically AR500 and ceramic plates, against various rifle calibers. It covers the observation of impact effects, penetration resistance, and spalling, providing critical data for understanding armor performance. The instruction emphasizes the importance of proper testing methodology and safety protocols when evaluating body armor.

Quick Summary

Expert ballistic armor testing shows Level 3 AR500 and ceramic plates from Highcom Security effectively stop 5.56, 7.62x39, and .308 Winchester rounds. AR500 experienced significant spalling, while ceramic plates showed backface deformation but contained projectiles, with bullets largely disintegrating.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Armor Testing Intro: Level 3 & 4 Ratings
  2. 00:45AR500 Plate Test: 5.56 Impact & Spalling
  3. 02:11AR500 Plate Test: 7.62x39 & .308 Impacts
  4. 03:07AR500 Plate Results: No Penetration, Spalling Concern
  5. 05:20Ceramic Plate Test: 5.56 Impact
  6. 06:10Ceramic Plate Test: 7.62x39 Impact Analysis
  7. 06:42Ceramic Plate Test: .308 Winchester Impacts
  8. 08:10Ceramic Plate Breakdown: Projectile Disintegration
  9. 10:31Ceramic Plate Summary: Life-Saving Performance
  10. 11:26Armor Test Conclusion: Highcom Security Gear Review
  11. 13:28Outtakes & Final Thoughts on .308

Frequently Asked Questions

How do AR500 and ceramic body armor perform against common rifle calibers?

In tests, both Level 3 AR500 and ceramic plates from Highcom Security stopped 5.56, 7.62x39, and .308 Winchester rounds without penetration. AR500 showed significant spalling, while ceramic plates exhibited backface deformation but contained projectiles effectively.

What are the key differences in bullet impact effects on AR500 versus ceramic armor?

AR500 armor typically shows visible impact marks and can cause significant spalling, especially with angled hits. Ceramic armor often disintegrates projectiles, leading to less spalling but potential backface deformation or bulges on the rear of the plate.

What is spalling and why is it a concern with ballistic armor?

Spalling is the fragmentation of a bullet or armor surface upon impact. It's a concern because these fragments can act as secondary projectiles, causing injury to the wearer or bystanders, even if the primary threat is stopped.

Which armor rating is needed to stop .308 NATO and .30-06 armor-piercing rounds?

Level 3 armor is rated to defeat up to .308 NATO rounds. For .30-06 armor-piercing rounds, a higher rating, typically Level 4, is required, as these rounds are designed for enhanced penetration.

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