Will these old sapi plates stop a bullet 🤔

Published on June 26, 2024
Duration: 17:46

This video tests the ballistic resistance of SAPI side plates against various calibers including 9mm, 5.56x45mm (55 and 62 grain green tip), and 7.62x39mm. The plates, despite being older (2007 date code) and purchased at a flea market, demonstrated significant resistance, stopping all tested rounds without dangerous pass-throughs, even under multiple hits. The presenter notes their effectiveness and value for their cost.

Quick Summary

Vintage SAPI side plates were tested against 9mm, 5.56x45mm (55 and 62 grain), and 7.62x39mm rounds. Despite their age (2007 date code) and flea market origin, the plates demonstrated impressive ballistic resistance, stopping all tested rounds without dangerous pass-throughs, even under multiple impacts.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction & Range Setup
  2. 00:15Testing SAPI Side Plates
  3. 01:049mm Ballistic Test
  4. 02:485.56x45mm (55 Grain) Test
  5. 05:055.56x45mm (62 Grain Green Tip) Test
  6. 06:207.62x39mm Test (Draco)
  7. 08:40Second 7.62x39mm Test
  8. 10:44Plate Date Code & Origin
  9. 12:17Preparing for 77 Grain OTM Test
  10. 14:1077 Grain OTM Ballistic Test
  11. 15:45Second 77 Grain OTM Test & Plate Failure
  12. 17:27Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Frequently Asked Questions

What calibers were used to test the SAPI side plates?

The SAPI side plates were tested against 9mm handgun rounds, 5.56x45mm rifle rounds (both 55-grain and 62-grain green tip), and 7.62x39mm rifle rounds fired from a Draco pistol.

Did the SAPI plates stop all the tested rounds?

Yes, the SAPI plates successfully stopped all tested rounds, including 9mm, 5.56x45mm, and 7.62x39mm. While the plates eventually failed after multiple 77-grain OTM rounds, they demonstrated significant resistance and prevented dangerous pass-throughs.

Are older SAPI plates still effective for ballistic protection?

The video suggests that older SAPI plates, even those with a 2007 date code, can still be effective. The tested plates, purchased at a flea market, stopped multiple rifle and handgun rounds without penetration, indicating they retained significant protective capability.

What is recommended when buying used ballistic armor?

It is recommended to have used ballistic plates, such as SAPI plates bought from flea markets, x-rayed. This helps ensure there are no internal cracks or damage that could compromise their ability to stop projectiles.

Related News

All News →

More Tactical & Gear Videos You Might Like

More from Appalachian Smokewagon

View all →