The US military is reportedly considering a caliber change for its sidearms due to the perceived ineffectiveness of 9mm ball ammunition on the battlefield, particularly against body armor and in close-quarters combat. This internal discussion stems from historical issues and the limitations imposed by the Hague Conventions, which mandate the use of full metal jacket (FMJ) ammunition, rendering hollow-point rounds illegal for military use. A potential switch could significantly impact civilian 9mm ammunition availability, as a large portion is produced by the US Army's Lake City plant for civilian sale.
This video explores the 7N6 'poison bullet,' a 5.45x39mm round designed for the AK-74. It details how its steel penetrator core, combined with unique geometry, causes extreme tumbling and yaw on impact, creating a large wound channel without fragmentation, thus technically avoiding classification as a prohibited expanding bullet under the Geneva Conventions. The video contrasts its performance with standard 5.45x39mm and 5.56 NATO rounds using ballistics gelatin and water jug tests, highlighting its effectiveness but also noting its corrosive nature and potential availability/price issues.
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