7.62x39 Ballistics Gel Test: 16” barrel

Published on March 27, 2021
Duration: 13:52

This video provides an expert-level ballistics gel test of five different 123-grain 7.62x39mm loads fired from a 16-inch barrel Ruger American Ranch rifle. The host, demonstrating high authority and significant experience, analyzes terminal ballistics, including penetration depth and projectile expansion, for hunting and self-defense applications. Key findings highlight the varied performance of hollow point, soft point, and SST designs.

Quick Summary

This expert 7.62x39mm ballistics gel test from The Gun Dungeon evaluates five 123-grain loads (Wolf HP, Speer Gold Dot, Nosler Varmageddon, Federal SP, Hornady SST) fired from a 16" Ruger American Ranch. The analysis focuses on terminal ballistics, detailing penetration depths and projectile expansion to assess suitability for hunting and self-defense.

Chapters

  1. 00:10Introduction and Test Overview
  2. 00:53Ammunition Selection
  3. 02:38Test Firearm Specifications
  4. 04:22Wolf Hollow Point Results
  5. 05:15Speer Gold Dot Results
  6. 06:19Nosler Varmageddon Results
  7. 07:33Federal Soft Point Results
  8. 08:45Hornady SST Results
  9. 10:00Final Analysis and Projectile Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

What 7.62x39mm loads were tested in the ballistics gel?

The test included Wolf Hollow Point, Speer Gold Dot (handload), Nosler Varmageddon (handload), Federal Soft Point (factory), and Hornady SST (factory), all 123-grain projectiles.

What rifle was used for the 7.62x39mm ballistics gel test?

The test utilized a Ruger American Ranch rifle equipped with a 16-inch barrel, known for its accuracy and lightweight handling, featuring a threaded barrel and Mini-30 magazine compatibility.

How did the Federal Soft Point 7.62x39mm ammunition perform in ballistics gel?

The Federal 7.62x39mm 123 Grain Soft Point ammunition achieved the deepest penetration in the ballistics gel, measuring 23.25 inches, though it created a smaller wound cavity compared to other tested rounds.

What were the key findings regarding projectile expansion in the 7.62x39mm test?

The Speer Gold Dot and Hornady SST demonstrated significant expansion, creating substantial wound cavities. The Wolf Hollow Point also expanded but showed jacket separation, while the Nosler Varmageddon fragmented violently.

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