Textbooks in Backpack BULLETPROOF? (And A Better Alternative)

Published on January 10, 2025
Duration: 2:53

This video from Civilian Tactical tests the ballistic resistance of a backpack filled with 1,200 sheets of printer paper against various firearm calibers. The host, demonstrating high authority and expertise in firearm handling and ballistic penetration, shows that passive protection is largely ineffective against common threats. The content advocates for active safety measures over relying on improvised armor.

Quick Summary

A backpack filled with 1,200 sheets of paper was tested for ballistic resistance. While it stopped handgun rounds like 9mm after significant penetration (500 pages), it was completely penetrated by a .223 Remington rifle round. The video emphasizes that passive protection is insufficient and advocates for active deterrents.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Test Setup
  2. 00:26Birdshot and .22 LR Testing
  3. 00:59.380 Auto and 9mm Testing
  4. 01:46.223 Rifle Testing and Policy Discussion

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a backpack full of textbooks stop bullets?

Testing shows that while a backpack filled with approximately 1,200 sheets of paper can stop handgun rounds like 9mm, it is ineffective against rifle rounds such as .223 Remington, which penetrate completely. This highlights the limitations of passive protection.

What is the most effective way to ensure safety in potential threat situations?

According to Civilian Tactical, relying on passive protection like a textbook-filled backpack is insufficient. The video advocates for active deterrents, such as trained armed personnel, as a more effective strategy for ensuring safety in critical incidents.

Which calibers were tested against the backpack armor?

The test included 12-gauge birdshot, .22 LR, .380 Auto, 9mm, and .223 Remington. The 12-gauge and .22 LR were stopped relatively easily, while 9mm required significant paper thickness. The .223 Remington round completely penetrated the simulated armor.

What alternative safety measures are suggested?

The host suggests that active deterrents, such as having armed teachers or police officers present, are a more viable and effective solution for safety compared to improvised ballistic protection like a backpack filled with textbooks.

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