S&W Ballistic Nylon Body Armor and Grenades

Published on January 4, 2016
Duration: 5:06

This video reviews the Smith & Wesson Police Barrier Vest from the early 1970s, notable for its 18 layers of ballistic nylon and steel plates. It also examines S&W 'Mighty Midget' tear gas grenades and a specialized revolver-mounted launcher. The vest offered protection against .38 S&W rounds with its nylon and .30 Carbine with its steel plates.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson Police Barrier Vest (Model 434-C) from the early 1970s featured 18 layers of ballistic nylon capable of stopping .38 S&W rounds, plus steel plates to defeat .30 Carbine rifle rounds. It was used by NYPD and included a modular groin protector.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: S&W Barrier Vest
  2. 01:16Ballistic Nylon & Protection Levels
  3. 02:43S&W Tear Gas Grenades & Launcher
  4. 03:46Vest Details & Markings

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the Smith & Wesson Police Barrier Vest?

The S&W Police Barrier Vest, model 434-C, was an early armored vest used by US police, notably the NYPD in the early 1970s. It featured 18 layers of ballistic nylon and steel plates for protection.

What level of protection did the S&W Barrier Vest offer?

The vest's ballistic nylon was designed to stop .38 S&W rounds, while the integrated steel plates were intended to defeat .30 Carbine rifle rounds, offering significant protection for its era.

What were the 'Mighty Midget' tear gas grenades?

These were CS gas grenades designed by Smith & Wesson with a contact fuse. They could be launched using a special projector mounted on a revolver, propelled by blank cartridges.

What materials were used in the S&W Barrier Vest?

The vest was constructed from 18 layers of ballistic nylon for the main body and incorporated steel plates for enhanced protection in critical areas like the chest and groin.

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