Top Hunting Bullets Tested at ZERO Yards!

Published on March 31, 2026
Duration: 7:19

This video tests six different hunting bullet types fired at zero yards into a block of paper to assess penetration depth and terminal performance. The Federal Terminal Ascent and Barnes 127 LRX demonstrated the deepest penetration, while the Hornady 147 ELDM showed the least. The test highlights how different bullet constructions perform when encountering resistance, simulating passage through an animal's thick hide and tissue.

Quick Summary

In a zero-yard penetration test into paper, the Federal Terminal Ascent and the Barnes 127 LRX demonstrated the deepest penetration. These bullets maintained their integrity well, suggesting they are suitable for hunting large game where deep tissue penetration is crucial. The Hornady 147 ELDM showed the least penetration, breaking apart significantly.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Paper Shield Test
  2. 00:10Ammunition Selection for Testing
  3. 01:10Test Rifle: Custom Howa 6.5 PRC
  4. 01:31Firing Sequence and Initial Observations
  5. 03:03First Block Penetration Results
  6. 03:35Federal Terminal Ascent Performance
  7. 04:10Barnes 127 LRX Performance
  8. 04:40Digging for Bullets: Barnes Harvest Load
  9. 05:13Sierra Game King Performance
  10. 05:25Federal Fusion Performance
  11. 05:45Norma Bond Strike Performance
  12. 06:14Hornady 147 ELDM Performance
  13. 07:04Test Results and Bullet Winners

Frequently Asked Questions

Which hunting bullets performed best in a zero-yard penetration test?

In a zero-yard penetration test into paper, the Federal Terminal Ascent and the Barnes 127 LRX demonstrated the deepest penetration. These bullets maintained their integrity well, suggesting they are suitable for hunting large game where deep tissue penetration is crucial.

How did the Hornady 147 ELDM perform in the bullet penetration test?

The Hornady 147 ELDM showed the least penetration among the tested bullets. It broke apart significantly, leaving only shards, indicating it may not be the optimal choice for hunting scenarios requiring deep penetration through tough animal tissue.

What rifle was used for the hunting bullet penetration test?

The test utilized a custom Howa rifle chambered in 6.5 PRC. This rifle was chosen for its long barrel, which helps achieve higher bullet velocities, allowing for a more thorough test of the bullets' penetration capabilities.

What types of hunting bullets were tested for penetration?

The test included Federal Terminal Ascent, Barnes Harvest Load, Norma Bond Strike, Barnes 127 LRX, Hornady Match (ELDM), and Federal Fusion 140 grain. These represent common hunting loads used by many sportsmen.

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