Videos tagged with Bullet Tumble Myth

This 'Smyth Busters' episode tackles the persistent myth of 5.56 NATO bullets tumbling in flight. Hosts Steve and Caleb from Brownells Gun Techs investigate whether this phenomenon, often cited as a reason for the cartridge's lethality, is real. They explain how early M16s with slower 1-12" twist barrels might have contributed to the misconception, with bullets potentially tumbling after impact rather than in the air. The video clarifies that accurate flight requires stability and that heavier bullets (62 and 77 grain) might yaw but don't tumble end-over-end. The discussion highlights the importance of modern, faster twist rates (1-7" and 1-8") for optimal accuracy with heavier projectiles in AR-15 platforms. Ultimately, the myth of 5.56 NATO bullets tumbling in flight is definitively busted.