Smyth Busters: Is Ceramic Body Armor a One-Hit Wonder?

This video from MuzzleBroke tests the durability of the Maxilla Face Mask by Tardigrade Industries against various firearm calibers, including .500 AutoMax. The mask, rated 3A, demonstrated impressive resilience, with only the most powerful round causing significant damage while maintaining full integrity and preventing backside penetration. The testing highlights the mask's capability to withstand substantial ballistic impact.

This video provides an overview of ballistic plates, emphasizing their value for personal protection. The speaker highlights a specific plate model with an MSRP of $399, a 10-year warranty, and NIJ Level 4 to NIJ 7 specifications. The content also touches upon the challenges of YouTube suppressing firearm-related content and encourages viewer support.

This video addresses a viewer's question about 'body gear' for beginners, clarifying that the term is ambiguous. The instructors emphasize that the appropriate gear quality and type depend heavily on the intended use, ranging from serious applications like military service or preparing for civil unrest to recreational activities like larping or airsoft. They strongly advise prioritizing proper footwear as the most crucial initial investment for any scenario.

This video tests budget body armor purchased from Temu, specifically focusing on Level 4 plates. The creator aims to determine if this affordable body armor is capable of stopping threats and can be a life-saving option. The testing involves shooting the armor, followed by a post-use examination to analyze its performance and structural integrity. The video questions the value proposition of budget-friendly body armor.

This video from Tap Rack Bang, LLC, led by Chief Instructor Ernie Medina, tests the ballistic performance of soft body armor that expired in 2006. Despite its age, the ABA Xtreme Armor vest, manufactured in 2001, demonstrated a surprising ability to stop initial handgun rounds. However, repeated impacts in a tight grouping eventually led to some projectile penetration, highlighting the degradation of materials over time. Medina advises that while expired armor may offer some residual protection, it should not be relied upon for primary duty use.

This video tests a Chinese ballistic face shield's ability to stop various handgun rounds. While it successfully deflected birdshot, .22 LR, .380 Auto, .38 Special, .357 Magnum, and 5.7x28mm rounds, it ultimately failed against the powerful .460 S&W Magnum. The test highlights the mask's limitations against extreme calibers, despite its initial impressive performance.

This video details the installation of a Geissele MK8 Super Modular Rail on an AR-15. Key steps include using a Geissele Reaction Rod for upper receiver stability, proper torquing of the proprietary barrel nut, and secure installation of the gas block and tube. The rail is then slid on and secured with two cross-bolts using a T-handle hex wrench. Final steps involve muzzle device installation and a thorough inspection.

Proper ammunition storage is crucial for maintaining reliability and safety. Avoid storing ammo in cardboard boxes in damp environments, as this leads to moisture absorption and corrosion. Utilize airtight containers like ammo cans and control humidity with desiccants like silica gel packs. Heat accelerates gunpowder and primer degradation, so store ammo at stable room temperatures. Reloading primers are particularly vulnerable to moisture and require strict airtight storage.

This video demonstrates how to upgrade an AR-15's A2 furniture to Magpul components. It details the removal of the A2 grip using a Bondhus hex set and the installation of a Magpul MIAD grip with interchangeable backstraps for improved ergonomics. The process also covers preparing and installing the Magpul PRS stock, highlighting its adjustable features for cheek weld and length of pull.

This video explores the custom Remington 11-87 shotgun used as a prop in 'No Country for Old Men.' The film required a semi-automatic shotgun with a suppressor, a combination not readily available at the time. Prop master Larry Zanoff details how a non-functional, 'homemade' looking suppressor was custom-built for the 11-87, with the iconic silenced sound effect achieved entirely in post-production.