PKM vs. Level IV Plate Armor

Published on October 6, 2021
Duration: 13:43

This expert-level analysis from Military Arms Channel details a rigorous test of RMA Armament's Level IV 1199SC ballistic plates against a PKM rifle firing 7.62x54R ammunition. The assessment focuses on penetration, backface deformation, and edge impact performance, providing valuable insights into the real-world capabilities of affordable, NIJ-certified armor.

Quick Summary

The RMA Armament Level IV armor, rated for .30-06 AP 'Black Tip', demonstrated impressive performance against a PKM firing 7.62x54R ball rounds. It stopped multiple impacts, including edge shots, with minimal, non-lethal backface deformation, showcasing its value and effectiveness.

Chapters

  1. 00:10Introduction and Test Setup
  2. 01:01Armor Specifications and Test Goals
  3. 02:51Armor Material and Weapon Background
  4. 03:44First Shot Analysis
  5. 05:17Second Shot into Same Spot
  6. 06:20Armor Plate Details and Value
  7. 06:53Second Shot Result and Edge Shot Plan
  8. 08:26Edge Shot Results
  9. 09:50Top Edge Shot and Final Assessment
  10. 11:57Conclusion and Support

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the NIJ rating for the RMA Armament armor tested?

The RMA Armament armor tested is NIJ certified Level IV. This rating signifies its capability to stop a single hit from a .30-06 caliber M2 Armor Piercing (AP) round fired from a rifle.

What ammunition was used to test the Level IV armor?

The primary ammunition used for testing was 7.62x54R ball ammunition with 174-grain bullets fired from a PKM rifle. The armor's rating is based on .30-06 AP 'Black Tip' rounds.

What is backface deformation and why is it important?

Backface deformation is the inward bulge on the rear of an armor plate after impact. It's critical because excessive deformation (over 44mm or 1.7 inches) can cause lethal blunt force trauma to the wearer, even if the plate isn't penetrated.

How did the RMA Armament Level IV armor perform against edge shots?

The RMA Armament Level IV armor performed exceptionally well on edge shots. Even when the ceramic was compromised, the underlying fiber layer stopped the rounds with minimal, non-lethal backface deformation, exceeding expectations.

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