World’s first 50cal rated helmet

Published on August 4, 2020
Duration: 11:14

This video tests a custom-built helmet claiming to be .50 cal rated. Initial tests with 9mm and .308 Winchester rounds show promising results, with the helmet stopping projectiles. However, a .50 BMG API round completely penetrates the AR500 steel, proving the initial rating false. The helmet is re-evaluated as effectively Level 3 rated.

Quick Summary

A custom helmet claiming a .50 cal rating was tested and failed. While it stopped 9mm and .308 rounds, a .50 BMG API round penetrated the AR500 steel. The helmet was ultimately assessed as effectively Level 3 rated.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Custom Helmet Intro & Inspiration
  2. 01:419mm Ballistic Testing with FN 509 Tactical
  3. 03:20.308 Winchester Test with FN SCAR 17
  4. 05:14.50 BMG Ballistic Testing (The Big Test)
  5. 08:39Final Assessment & Re-rating: Level 3?

Frequently Asked Questions

Was the custom helmet truly .50 cal rated?

No, the helmet failed the .50 BMG test. A .50 BMG API round completely penetrated the AR500 steel plating, proving the initial rating was inaccurate. The helmet was later assessed as effectively Level 3 rated.

What materials were used in the custom helmet?

The helmet featured AR500 steel plating for ballistic protection and a 3-inch thick bulletproof glass viewfinder salvaged from a German tank. It was inspired by the Russian K6 helmet but heavily modified.

How did the helmet perform against smaller calibers?

It performed well against smaller calibers. The helmet successfully stopped multiple 9mm rounds from an FN 509 Tactical and deflected .308 Winchester rounds from an FN SCAR 17, though one round penetrated an unreinforced visor section.

What is the final assessment of the helmet's protection level?

After failing the .50 BMG test, the helmet was re-evaluated. The speaker concluded that the helmet is effectively a 'Level 3' rated piece of gear, primarily due to the AR500 steel and the robust glass viewfinder.

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