Plate Carrier can drown you fast

Published on August 2, 2022
Duration: 0:15

This video from Polenar Tactical demonstrates the severe drowning risk associated with wearing a plate carrier in deep water. The demonstration shows how the negative buoyancy of ballistic plates and tactical gear can rapidly pull an individual underwater, necessitating the immediate shedding of equipment to survive. It serves as a critical cautionary tale for anyone operating near bodies of water with tactical gear.

Quick Summary

Wearing a plate carrier with ballistic plates in deep water poses a significant drowning risk due to negative buoyancy. This weight can rapidly pull you underwater, making survival dependent on quickly shedding gear like rifles, helmets, and the plate carrier itself to regain buoyancy.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Fall
  2. 00:02Underwater Struggle
  3. 00:08Gear Shedding

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main danger of wearing a plate carrier in deep water?

The primary danger is drowning due to the negative buoyancy of the plate carrier, especially when loaded with ballistic plates. This weight can rapidly pull an individual underwater, making it difficult to swim or stay afloat.

How does gear affect buoyancy in water?

Tactical gear, particularly plate carriers with ballistic plates, significantly increases weight and reduces buoyancy. This can lead to rapid sinking, requiring immediate removal of equipment to regain the ability to swim and surface.

What is the recommended order for shedding gear in a water emergency?

In a water emergency with a plate carrier, it's generally advised to shed lighter items first, such as a rifle or helmet, before attempting to unbuckle and remove the plate carrier itself to regain buoyancy.

What materials contribute to a plate carrier's negative buoyancy?

The main contributors to a plate carrier's negative buoyancy are the ballistic plates themselves, which are dense and designed for protection, not flotation. The carrier material (like Cordura) and other attached pouches and gear also add to the overall weight.

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