RTS Tactical Level IIIA Special Threat Ballistic Mini Shield Test & Review

Published on April 23, 2022
Duration: 12:15

This review and test of the RTS Tactical Level IIIA Special Threat Ballistic Mini Shield highlights its value as a budget-friendly option for ballistic protection. The shield is constructed from steel and offers protection against various pistol rounds and some rifle rounds, though its effectiveness against high-velocity rifle rounds like M855 is limited. The review emphasizes its utility as mobile cover, particularly in confined spaces, and discusses concerns regarding spall and fragmentation, noting that the coating helps mitigate this but is not foolproof against rifle impacts.

Quick Summary

The RTS Tactical Level IIIA Special Threat Ballistic Mini Shield is a budget-friendly steel shield claimed to stop M855 and 7.62x39mm rounds, along with all pistol calibers. While it offers mobility advantages and can serve as mobile cover, concerns exist regarding spall and fragmentation, especially against high-velocity rifle rounds.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to RTS Tactical Shield
  2. 00:13Special Threat Rating Explained
  3. 00:40Shield Sizes and Weight
  4. 00:56Steel Armor Concerns: Spall & Fragmentation
  5. 01:31Shield Features: Padding & Strap
  6. 01:55Grip and Handling
  7. 02:08Shield Advantage: Mobility & Cover
  8. 03:00Price Point and Weight Comparison
  9. 03:16Test Setup: Dirt Box & Distance
  10. 03:29Test 1: .22LR Rounds
  11. 04:07Test 2: 9mm Rounds
  12. 04:39Test 3: .45 ACP Rounds
  13. 05:17Test 4: 300 Blackout
  14. 06:07Test 5: .223 Remington (M249)
  15. 06:52Test 6: M855 (SS109)
  16. 07:40Test 7: .223 Remington (16" Barrel)
  17. 08:46Overall Assessment: Pros & Cons
  18. 09:09Pros: Inexpensive, Pistol/Rifle Protection
  19. 09:44Pros: Mobility Advantage
  20. 10:08Cons: Spall Protection Limitations
  21. 10:33Conclusion and Channel Support

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the RTS Tactical Level IIIA Special Threat Ballistic Mini Shield rated to stop?

The RTS Tactical shield is rated as 'Special Threat Level IIIA,' which is not a standard NIJ rating. However, it is claimed to stop M855 and 7.62x39mm rounds, as well as all pistol calibers.

What are the main concerns with steel ballistic shields like the RTS Tactical model?

The primary concerns with steel ballistic shields are spall and fragmentation. While the RTS Tactical shield has a coating to mitigate this, it's not foolproof, especially against high-velocity rifle rounds.

How does the RTS Tactical shield compare to body armor plates in terms of usability?

The RTS Tactical shield offers a significant mobility advantage over body armor plates. It can be easily moved and used as mobile cover, making it particularly useful for maneuvering in confined spaces.

What was the performance of the RTS Tactical shield against rifle rounds during testing?

The shield successfully stopped M855 and 7.62x39mm rounds, though some spalling occurred. It failed to stop a .223 Remington round fired from a 16-inch barrel, highlighting the impact of velocity on armor penetration.

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