Understanding the 7.62x39mm and Its Impact on Body Armor
When it comes to evaluating the performance of body armor, the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) standard is a critical reference. This standard helps ensure that body armor is effective against various weapon threats, including handgun and rifle fire. A common question that arises is whether the 7.62x39mm round can penetrate police body armor or other military armor. This article aims to clarify this point and provide a comprehensive understanding of the issue.
The 7.62x39mm Cartridge: An Overview
The 7.62x39mm is a high-velocity intermediate cartridge commonly used in assault rifles such as the AK-47 and SKS rifles. It is well-known for its balance between penetration and recoil, making it popular in both military and civilian settings. However, when it comes to body armor, the effectiveness of this cartridge varies depending on the type of armor and the specific threat level it must defend against.
Body Armor Standards and Testing Protocols
The NIJ is responsible for setting and maintaining standards for ballistic resistant body armor. In 2022, a new standard for ballistic resistance will be released, which includes detailed testing protocols to ensure that body armor can protect against various threats. These protocols are exhaustive and involve testing with specific reference to the different types of threats and the appropriate test rounds for each.
Understanding the NIJ Standards
For starters, it's important to note that the 7.62x39mm cartridge can indeed penetrate body armor, but the severity of this penetration depends on the level of protection provided by the armor. Complete penetration, where the projectile passes through the armor, is a concern that the standard takes into account. The RF1 and RF2 test threats from the NIJ testing protocols specifically target intermediate rifle cartridges, which includes the 7.62x39mm. This means users must employ body armor that meets the appropriate test standards to ensure maximum safety.
The Importance of Specific Threat Levels
There is no generic "body armor." Instead, it is acquired and used based on the perceived threat and an applicable standard. The product is clearly labeled to indicate the types of threats it can protect against. When a threat is perceived, the body armor must be chosen based on the specific test threats that it has been certified to protect against. The testing protocols are designed to be as precise as possible to eliminate any guessing.
Example of Testing Protocols
Consider the table for rifle test threats from NIJ Standard 0101.07. It includes specific test rounds for the 7.62x39mm, such as RF1 and RF2. These tests are crucial for ensuring that body armor can effectively protect against intermediate rifle cartridges like the 7.62x39mm. The table clearly indicates that if a perceived threat includes this round, the user should use body armor that is compliant with these threats.
The Need for Compliance
It is important to emphasize that no one should guess when it comes to the safety of their lives. If there is any doubt about the threat level, it is always advisable to use the standard test round for the corresponding cartridge. Using armor that is not certified to protect against a specific threat significantly increases the risk of failure. For instance, an armor certified for handguns (HG2) is not certified to protect against the velocities and penetration capabilities of rifle rounds like the 7.62x39mm.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 7.62x39mm cartridge can indeed penetrate body armor, but this penetration varies based on the specific type of armor and its compliance with the appropriate standards. The NIJ's rigorous testing protocols and standards ensure that body armor is effective against a wide range of threats, including intermediate rifle cartridges like the 7.62x39mm. By adhering to these standards and using armor that is compliant with the specific threat levels, users can maximize their safety in potentially dangerous situations.