What Is the Best Caliber for Exploding Watermelons?

Published on December 31, 2018
Duration: 14:54

This video scientifically tests various firearm calibers to determine their effectiveness in exploding watermelons. Higher velocity rounds, particularly rifle calibers like 5.56 NATO and .30-06, demonstrated significantly more explosive results than handgun rounds. The experiment highlights that velocity, rather than just bullet diameter, is the primary factor for achieving a dramatic 'explosion' effect on targets.

Quick Summary

Higher velocity rifle calibers like 5.56 NATO, 7.62x39, .30-06, and 12 gauge slugs are most effective at exploding watermelons. They cause significant fragmentation or complete obliteration due to hydrostatic shock, demonstrating that velocity is key.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Watermelon Explosion Test
  2. 01:00Firearm and Caliber Lineup
  3. 01:38Handgun Testing: 9mm, .40, .45
  4. 04:00Magnum Handgun Testing (.357 Mag, .44 Mag)
  5. 06:16Rifle Testing: 5.56 NATO & 7.62x39
  6. 08:00Full-Power Rifle & Shotgun (.30-06, 12ga Slug)
  7. 09:14Velocity Comparison: .357 Mag Rifle
  8. 11:36Conclusion: Velocity is Key

Frequently Asked Questions

Which firearm calibers are most effective at exploding watermelons?

Higher velocity rifle calibers like 5.56 NATO, 7.62x39, .30-06, and 12 gauge slugs are most effective. They cause significant fragmentation or complete obliteration. Magnum handgun rounds like .44 Magnum show more effect than standard pistol rounds, but still less than rifles.

Does bullet diameter or velocity matter more for exploding targets?

Velocity appears to be the key factor. High-velocity rifle rounds, even those with smaller diameters like 5.56 NATO, cause more explosive results due to hydrostatic shock compared to larger, slower handgun rounds.

What is the difference in effect between handgun and rifle calibers on watermelons?

Rifle calibers, due to their higher velocities achieved from longer barrels, create significantly more explosive effects. They tend to vaporize or shatter the watermelon into small fragments, whereas handgun rounds often leave larger chunks.

What specific firearms were used in the watermelon explosion test?

The test featured various firearms including handguns in 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, .357 Mag, and .44 Mag. Long guns included AR-15 style rifles (5.56 NATO), AK-47 variants (7.62x39), an M1 Garand (.30-06), a Marlin lever-action (.357 Mag rifle), and a shotgun (12ga slug).

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