The National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center (NLECTC), a program of the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), was recently made aware of an informal report concerning the testing of a frangible bullet against body armor, where a portion of the bullet penetrated the armor. As several independent sources notified us of this report, NIJ requested that staff of the Office of Law Enforcement Standards (OLES) investigate this matter to research the likelihood of frangible ammunition penetrating ballistic-resistant armor.
Frangible bullets, which are composites of hybrid materials either pressed together at high pressure or glued together with adhesives, are primarily used in training exercises to reduce lead hazards on firing ranges. Frangible bullets are designed to break up into smaller pieces upon contact with harder objects or surfaces. These small fragments quickly lose energy and significantly reduce the possibility of injury from ricochet, making them ideal for use in training exercises.
Continuing with our mission to provide accurate research data to the public safety community, NIST/OLES will conduct a limited series of controlled tests using frangible bullets and body armor. Results should be available within 30-45 days. This work will also support a new initiative to produce a Selection and Applications Guide for Frangible Ammunition. This project is expected to be completed in approximately 12 months.
Results of the limited testing of frangible bullets against body armor will be released as soon as they are available and approved for distribution. Please direct any inquires or requests for information on this topic to NLECTC at 800-248-2742.