Knowledgebase
A large database of information on armor materials, systems, test methods, and current threats. Start with the glossary. All works copyright 2021 Adept, but may be reprinted without compensation or permission provided they are properly attributed to Adept.
Test Standards and Specifications
Armor Levels A Comprehensive Table of Current Ballistic Standards for Body Armor and Helmets: Like the glossary, this page “Armor Levels” is wholly derived from our book Body Armor Materials and Systems, where it is included in that book as an appendix. The aim here is to clearly lay out the different test protocols for […]
Glossary of Terms
This page is wholly derived from our book Body Armor Materials and Systems, and is included in that book as an appendix. The aim here is to clarify terms and jargon that one might encounter when reading about armor materials in technical and scientific literature, in ballistic test reports, or in product specifications.
Are ballistic helmets bulletproof?
20th century steel helmets have very poor resistance to small arms threats; the PASGT, ACH, and most “IIIA”-rated helmets will stop virtually all pistol caliber threats, but will not stop rifle rounds; the ECH and IHPS will stop some rifle threats, but will not reliably stop all or even a majority of them, and helmet shell deformation may cause the shell to come into contact with the wearer’s head, potentially causing serious injury; future helmets will reliably stop steel-cored rifle ball threats with minimal helmet shell deformation.
Titanium Armor in Detail
The first titanium alloys — including the famous Ti6Al4V, which now accounts for more than 50% of total titanium production — were developed in the USA in the late 40s. Shortly after their development, a military assessment noted that these new alloys showed promise at defeating small arms projectiles.
Body Armor Statistics and Plate Selection
It should go without saying that military body armor must be designed to prevent military injury. Patterns of wounding are not static — they’re situational and evolve in response to the arms, armor, and doctrine employed — so this is an ongoing effort. Fortunately, the US Military keeps reasonably good public records, which can be summarized:
The Effect of Resin Selection on UHMWPE armor performance
Modern body armor is an insert, made of a strong material, that fits inside a garment such as a vest or plate carrier. Body armor comes in two varieties: “Hard” and “soft.” Hard armor generally consists of rigid panels which are built to offer protection from common rifle rounds.
The Decline and Fall of Steel Body Armor
Modern body armor is an insert, made of a strong material, that fits inside a garment such as a vest or plate carrier. Body armor comes in two varieties: “Hard” and “soft.” Hard armor generally consists of rigid panels which are built to offer protection from common rifle rounds.
Is Riot Armor Bulletproof?
Modern body armor is an insert, made of a strong material, that fits inside a garment such as a vest or plate carrier. Body armor comes in two varieties: “Hard” and “soft.” Hard armor generally consists of rigid panels which are built to offer protection from common rifle rounds.
The Decline, Resurgence, and Future of Steel Armor II: The Rise and Fall of the 20th Century Steel Helmet
The Decline and Fall of Steel Body Armor II” examines the historical development and eventual decline of steel body armor, focusing on its effectiveness, design evolution, and the factors that led to its replacement by more advanced materials.
