Let's Talk Body Armor (Feature Length) 101

Published on January 4, 2020
Duration: 28:20

This comprehensive guide from Copper Jacket TV, featuring insights from 'The Daily Shooter,' delves into body armor selection and understanding. It covers threat levels, material comparisons (steel vs. composite), the nuances of 'Level 3+' ratings, and the critical factors of velocity, spalling, backface deformation, and expiration. The video also touches on plate cuts, weight trade-offs, and various plate carrier types, offering practical advice based on extensive independent testing.

Quick Summary

Body armor threat levels indicate protection against specific ammunition types, from Level 2 (pistol rounds) to Level 4 (armor-piercing rifle rounds). 'Level 3+' is a manufacturer term, not an official NIJ rating. Steel plates are durable but heavy and cause spalling, while lighter composite plates absorb energy but may have higher backface deformation. Proper plate orientation is critical for effectiveness.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Body Armor 101
  2. 00:58Understanding Threat Levels
  3. 02:15Material Comparison: Steel vs. Composite
  4. 04:00Velocity and Penetration Mechanics
  5. 05:40The 'Level 3+' Rating Explained
  6. 07:44Impact Characteristics and Backface Deformation
  7. 08:40Spalling and Build-up Coatings
  8. 10:25Energy Transfer and Trauma Pads
  9. 11:52Plate Cuts: Standard, Shooter's, and Swimmer's
  10. 13:13Weight and Mobility Trade-offs
  11. 15:21Expiration and Environmental Degradation
  12. 17:13Strike Face and Orientation
  13. 18:10Plate Carrier Types

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different threat levels for body armor?

Body armor threat levels range from Level 2 (pistol rounds up to .44 Magnum) to Level 4 (designed for .30-06 M2 Armor Piercing rounds). Level 3 and 3+ typically protect against common rifle rounds like 5.56x45mm NATO and .308 Winchester (7.62x51mm).

What is the difference between steel and composite body armor plates?

Steel plates (like AR500) are durable and cost-effective but heavy and prone to spalling. Composite plates are lighter and absorb more energy but can be more expensive and may exhibit greater backface deformation, indicating blunt force trauma potential.

Does 'Level 3+' body armor meet official standards?

No, the 'Level 3+' rating is not officially recognized by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ). It's a manufacturer-specific designation indicating performance that exceeds standard Level 3 requirements, often against faster or heavier rifle rounds.

Why is plate orientation important for body armor?

Ballistic plates must be oriented correctly with the 'Strike Face' towards the incoming threat. This is crucial for composite plates, where layer sequencing is vital for performance, and for steel plates, which often have anti-spall coatings applied to only one side.

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