Can You Paddle a Boat with Bullets?!?

Published on November 24, 2016
Duration: 10:49

This experiment tests Newton's Third Law by using firearm recoil to propel a kayak. Larger calibers like the .50 BMG and sustained fire from an AK-47 provided the most significant propulsion. The .338 Lapua Magnum's muzzle brake was observed to potentially reduce backward force.

Quick Summary

Recoil from firearms can propel a kayak, demonstrating Newton's Third Law. Larger calibers like the .50 BMG and sustained fire from an AK-47 produced the most significant propulsion. Muzzle brakes may also influence the force applied.

Chapters

  1. 00:29Experiment Intro: Paddling with Bullets?
  2. 01:479mm Pistol Recoil Test
  3. 02:26.44 Magnum Recoil Test
  4. 03:06.30-30 Rifle Recoil Test
  5. 03:41.45-70 Government Recoil Test
  6. 04:37.338 Lapua Magnum Recoil Test & Muzzle Brake
  7. 06:44.50 BMG Recoil Test
  8. 09:05AK-47 Sustained Fire Test

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you actually paddle a boat with bullets?

Yes, the recoil from firearms can generate enough force to propel a kayak. This experiment demonstrates Newton's Third Law, showing that action (firing a gun) results in an equal and opposite reaction (boat movement).

Which firearm provided the most propulsion for the kayak?

The .50 BMG rifle generated the most significant propulsion from a single shot. However, sustained rapid fire from an AK-47 provided the most consistent and fastest 'paddling' effect throughout the test.

Does a muzzle brake affect recoil propulsion?

Yes, a muzzle brake, like the one on the .338 Lapua Magnum tested, can redirect gases. This redirection might reduce the backward force applied to the watercraft compared to a brake-less firearm of similar caliber.

How does caliber affect the boat's movement?

Larger calibers with more powder and higher energy, such as the .45-70 Government and .50 BMG, produce substantially more recoil and thus greater propulsion than smaller calibers like the 9mm pistol.

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