Live 22LR Ammo in a Microwave

Published on November 11, 2013
Duration: 5:18

DemolitionRanch, known for unique tests, conducted an experiment to see if live .22LR ammunition would discharge in a microwave. After building a protective bunker, they found that after a 5-minute microwave cycle, the .22LR rounds began to cook off, resulting in shredded casings and powder residue, but no penetration of the microwave door. The expert demonstrated significant safety awareness by constructing a ballistic bunker.

Quick Summary

Live .22LR ammunition, when microwaved for approximately 5 minutes, will 'cook off' due to rapid powder heating, causing casings to rupture and shred. While this experiment resulted in significant internal damage and smoke, the .22LR rounds did not penetrate the microwave door. Extensive safety measures, including a ballistic bunker, were employed.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Series Context
  2. 00:43Microwave Bunker Setup
  3. 00:59Ammunition Selection
  4. 01:54First Test: .22LR (1 Minute)
  5. 02:45Second Test: .22LR (5 Minutes)
  6. 03:44Observing the Results
  7. 04:19Post-Test Analysis
  8. 04:55Conclusion & Teaser

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens when you microwave live .22LR ammunition?

When live .22LR ammunition is microwaved for an extended period (around 5 minutes in this test), the powder inside heats up rapidly, causing it to 'cook off.' This results in the primer igniting and the casing rupturing due to the internal pressure, leading to smoke and debris.

Did the microwaved .22LR ammunition penetrate the microwave?

In this specific test, the .22LR ammunition did not penetrate the Hamilton Beach microwave door. While the casings were shredded and there was powder residue inside, the microwave itself sustained only minor nicks on the door, not structural damage from projectiles.

What safety precautions were taken during the microwave ammunition test?

The experimenter built a substantial safety bunker using cinder blocks filled with dirt to shield against potential explosions and projectiles. Power was also disconnected immediately after the test, and the microwave was allowed to cool before inspection.

What types of ammunition are planned for future microwave tests?

Following the .22LR test, future experiments are planned to include more powerful ammunition. The creator mentioned intentions to test 12 gauge birdshot, 1 oz slugs, and .50 BMG rounds in subsequent episodes.

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