The question of whether 5.7x28mm ammunition can penetrate body armor is complex, with the answer heavily dependent on several factors. This article will delve into the specifics, examining the ammunition's capabilities, the varying types of body armor, and the crucial elements influencing penetration.
Understanding 5.7x28mm Ammunition
The 5.7x28mm cartridge, famously used in the FN Five-seveN pistol and the P90 submachine gun, is designed for high velocity and penetration. Its small size and lightweight projectile allow for high magazine capacity and manageable recoil. However, its effectiveness against body armor is not a given.
Key Characteristics Affecting Penetration:
- High Velocity: This contributes significantly to its potential for penetration, but this alone doesn't guarantee it will pierce all body armor types.
- Small Caliber: The small diameter of the bullet can potentially find weaknesses in the weave or materials of some body armor.
- Projectile Design: Different 5.7x28mm rounds are designed for different purposes. Some are optimized for penetration, while others prioritize stopping power. SS190, for example, is known for its penetrative capabilities, while SS192 focuses more on incapacitation.
Body Armor Classifications and Penetration Resistance
Body armor is categorized based on its ability to stop specific threats. The most common standard used is the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) standard. This standard categorizes body armor into different levels, each with varying degrees of protection against handgun and rifle rounds.
NIJ Threat Levels and 5.7x28mm Penetration:
- NIJ Level IIA: Designed to stop .38 Special and .357 Magnum rounds, this level is generally not expected to stop 5.7x28mm rounds, especially those designed for penetration.
- NIJ Level II: Stops 9mm and .40 S&W rounds, offering better protection. Penetration by 5.7x28mm is possible, but less certain than against Level IIA. Success depends on the specific round and the armor's quality.
- NIJ Level IIIA: Stops 9mm, .40 S&W, and .44 Magnum rounds. This level provides significantly better protection against 5.7x28mm ammunition; penetration is less likely, but not impossible, particularly with high-velocity rounds like SS190.
- NIJ Level III and IV: Designed to stop rifle rounds, these levels offer substantial protection against 5.7x28mm ammunition. Penetration is highly improbable.
Factors Influencing Penetration:
Beyond the ammunition type and armor level, several other variables affect penetration success:
- Armor Material: Different materials (e.g., Kevlar, ceramic, polyethylene) offer different levels of protection. The quality and construction of the armor play a crucial role.
- Distance: The distance between the shooter and the target directly impacts the bullet's velocity and energy upon impact. Closer ranges increase the likelihood of penetration.
- Angle of Impact: A direct, perpendicular impact delivers maximum force, increasing the chance of penetration. An oblique angle reduces the impact force.
- Armor Condition: Damaged or worn body armor is significantly less effective and more prone to penetration.
Conclusion: No Simple Answer
Determining whether 5.7x28mm ammunition can penetrate body armor doesn't have a straightforward answer. It hinges on the interplay of various factors: the specific type of 5.7x28mm ammunition used, the NIJ rating of the body armor, the material and condition of the armor, the range and angle of impact. While 5.7x28mm might penetrate lower-level armor, its effectiveness diminishes significantly against higher-rated body armor. It's crucial to remember that this information is for educational purposes and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any specific action.
