Which Armor Will Get You Killed? Steel vs Ceramic

Published on August 13, 2022
Duration: 14:42

This video from Administrative Results provides a practical, albeit informal, comparison of steel versus ceramic body armor. The host, demonstrating high expertise in tactical gear, tests both AR500 steel and Highcom ceramic plates against various rifle calibers using a ballistic gel head to assess secondary effects like spalling. The key takeaway is the significant spalling hazard from steel armor, even when it stops a projectile, leading to a recommendation for ceramic armor for its fragment containment properties.

Quick Summary

Administrative Results tests steel vs ceramic body armor, highlighting the significant spalling hazard from steel plates even when they stop a projectile. Ceramic armor is recommended for its superior fragment containment, despite potential multi-hit failure limitations, offering a safer alternative for ballistic protection.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Steel vs Ceramic Armor
  2. 01:49Test Setup: Ballistic Gel & Armor
  3. 03:53Firearms & Calibers Used
  4. 04:16Steel Armor Testing & Spalling
  5. 08:48Ceramic Armor Testing & Failure
  6. 10:52Conclusion & Recommendation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main danger of steel body armor?

The primary danger of steel body armor is spalling. Even when the steel plate successfully stops a bullet, fragments from the bullet and the armor itself can break off and ricochet, causing serious secondary injuries to the wearer or bystanders.

How does ceramic body armor perform compared to steel?

Ceramic body armor generally performs better at containing fragments and preventing spalling compared to steel. However, ceramic plates can be more brittle and may fail structurally after multiple high-energy impacts, unlike steel which is more resistant to multi-hit scenarios.

Which type of body armor does Administrative Results recommend?

Based on the practical testing shown, Administrative Results recommends ceramic body armor. The key factor is its superior ability to contain fragments and mitigate the dangerous effects of spalling, which poses a significant risk with steel armor.

What are NIJ Level 3+ and Level 4 ratings for body armor?

NIJ Level 3+ and Level 4 are ratings for body armor indicating their ballistic resistance. Level 4 is generally considered superior, designed to stop higher-velocity rifle rounds like the .30-06 M2AP, while Level 3+ offers enhanced protection over standard Level 3.

Related News

All News →

More Tactical & Gear Videos You Might Like

More from Administrative Results

View all →