Comparison of the DM11A1B2 9mm Luger FMJ Bullet from Two Different Manufacturers

Abstract

Currently the certification of UK ballistic resistant police body armour is determined according to HOSDB Body Armour Standards (2007). The test round DM11A1B2 manufactured by Dynamit Nobel is used to assess handgun protection (levels HG1A, HG1 and HG2). This round has proven consistent performance; however, Dynamit Nobel has ceased manufacture of the DM11A1B2 and an alternative test round was required. It was identified that Metallwerk Elisenhütte GmbH (MEN)had manufactured a DM11 A1B2 9mm FMJ Luger which appeared to be the same as the one previously supplied by Dynamit Nobel. However, it became apparent after initial testing that the bullet performance against body armour compared to the current test round varied. This paper presents the work that has been carried out to date to investigate why this discrepancy in performance exists. The comparison included dimensional measurements, micro hardness testing, scanning electron microscopy analysis and elemental analysis.