Testing a level IIIA backpack insert

Published on February 7, 2021
Duration: 24:00

This video tests a Level IIIA ballistic backpack insert from Premier Body Armor against various handgun and shotgun rounds. The insert successfully stopped common handgun calibers like 9mm and .357 Magnum, as well as a 12-gauge slug, demonstrating its effectiveness for everyday carry and preparedness. While it stopped a 10mm Underwood load, it penetrated to the 5th layer, and a folded insert was needed to stop an extreme penetrator round.

Quick Summary

A Level IIIA ballistic insert is rated to stop most common handgun rounds, including up to .44 Magnum semi-jacketed hollow-point bullets. It can also stop a 12-gauge slug traveling at 1600 fps, stopping it at the 11th layer of Kevlar.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro & Binary Trigger Demo
  2. 00:35Premier Body Armor Insert Overview
  3. 03:36Ballistic Test: .32 Cal Black Powder
  4. 04:48Ballistic Test: .22 LR
  5. 06:10Ballistic Test: 9mm Luger
  6. 08:13Ballistic Test: .357 Magnum
  7. 10:22Ballistic Test: 10mm Auto
  8. 12:23Ballistic Test: Underwood 10mm Hard Cast
  9. 14:02Ballistic Test: 12 Gauge Slug
  10. 17:22Ballistic Test: Extreme Penetrator 9mm

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Level IIIA ballistic insert rated to stop?

A Level IIIA ballistic insert is rated to stop most common handgun rounds, including up to .44 Magnum semi-jacketed hollow-point bullets traveling at subsonic or near-subsonic velocities.

Can a Level IIIA insert stop rifle rounds?

No, standard Level IIIA inserts are not designed to stop rifle rounds. For rifle protection, you would need a higher rated armor, such as a Level III or Level IV plate, which are typically hard plates.

How effective is the Premier Body Armor Level IIIA insert against a 12-gauge slug?

In testing, the Premier Body Armor Level IIIA insert successfully stopped a 1-ounce 12-gauge slug traveling at 1600 fps, stopping it at the 11th layer of the Kevlar panel.

What happens when a Level IIIA insert is hit by a 9mm round?

When hit by a standard 9mm Luger round, the Level IIIA insert effectively stops the projectile, causing only a small bulge on the backside of the panel.

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