223 and 7.62x39

[1911greg]

Do either of these rounds defeat light body armor?

[Bill]

Basically ALL rifle rounds defeat light body armor. The edge goes to velocity and weight. In the case of the two listed, the .223 will do it, but will probably break up in the process. The 7.62x39 is slower, but will hold together better.

Light body armor was designed to stop handgun rounds. Rifle rounds are a whole different animal.

If you are talking about home defense, I'd not worry about the body armor, as very few 2-legged varmints are using it.