Smyth Busters: Will Excess Bullet Setback Blow Up Your Gun?

Published on March 15, 2022
Duration: 5:38

Repeatedly chambering rounds can cause bullet setback, pushing the bullet deeper into the case. This reduces internal volume, significantly increasing chamber pressure and risking firearm damage or catastrophic failure ('KA-BOOM'). Different firearm designs, like the 1911 with its steeper feed ramp, are more prone to causing setback than others, such as Glocks. Proper handloading techniques, including adequate neck tension and crimping, are crucial to prevent this dangerous phenomenon.

Quick Summary

Bullet setback occurs when a bullet is pushed deeper into its case, reducing internal volume and significantly increasing chamber pressure. This can lead to firearm damage or catastrophic failure ('KA-BOOM'). It's often caused by repeatedly chambering rounds, especially in firearms with steeper feed ramps like the 1911.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Bullet Setback Myth
  2. 00:40Causes of Bullet Setback
  3. 01:16Pressure Risks Explained
  4. 02:20Feeding & Case Issues
  5. 03:10Firearm Design & Handloading
  6. 04:08Rifle Calibers & Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is bullet setback and how does it happen?

Bullet setback is when a bullet is pushed deeper into the cartridge case than intended. This commonly occurs when a round is repeatedly chambered, causing the bullet to strike the feed ramp and gradually seat further back into the case.

Can bullet setback cause a gun to explode?

Yes, bullet setback can significantly increase chamber pressure because it reduces the internal volume of the cartridge case. This pressure spike can potentially damage the firearm or even cause a catastrophic failure, often referred to as a 'KA-BOOM'.

Which firearms are more prone to causing bullet setback?

Firearms with steeper feed ramps, such as the 1911 platform, are more likely to cause bullet setback than those with more direct feeding mechanisms like Glocks. Repeated chambering impacts the bullet more forcefully on steeper ramps.

How can handloaders prevent bullet setback?

Handloaders can prevent bullet setback by ensuring adequate neck tension on the bullet and applying a proper crimp to the case mouth. These steps help secure the bullet and resist it being pushed deeper into the case.

Related News

All News →

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from Brownells, Inc.

View all →