1911 Velocity 3" vs 5" Barrel .45acp velocity Chronoed

Published on May 3, 2020
Duration: 3:30

This video compares the muzzle velocity of .45 ACP ammunition fired from a 5-inch barrel 1911 (Ruger SR1911) versus a shorter barrel 1911 (Colt Defender). Using Federal HST 185-grain jacketed hollow points, the test revealed a difference of approximately 100 feet per second, with the longer barrel achieving higher velocities. The results were noted as consistent, even with budget ammunition.

Quick Summary

A chronograph test comparing .45 ACP velocity from a 5-inch Ruger SR1911 versus a shorter Colt Defender revealed a difference of approximately 100 feet per second. The longer barrel achieved higher velocities with Federal HST 185-grain JHP ammunition, demonstrating consistent performance even with budget rounds.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Barrel Length Velocity Difference
  2. 00:09Firearms Used: Ruger SR1911 & Colt Defender
  3. 00:28Ammunition: Federal HST 185gr JHP
  4. 00:43Testing Procedure: 3 Shots Each
  5. 01:36Velocity Results: Ruger SR1911
  6. 02:08Velocity Results: Colt Defender
  7. 02:47Overall Velocity Difference & Consistency
  8. 03:12Related Reviews & Videos

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical velocity difference between a 5-inch and a shorter barrel 1911 in .45 ACP?

In a test using Federal HST 185-grain JHP ammunition, a 5-inch barrel 1911 (Ruger SR1911) achieved approximately 100 feet per second higher muzzle velocity than a shorter barrel 1911 (Colt Defender).

Does barrel length significantly impact .45 ACP velocity?

Yes, barrel length has a measurable impact on projectile velocity. Longer barrels generally allow propellants more time to burn and accelerate the bullet, resulting in higher velocities, as demonstrated in the comparison between a 5-inch and a shorter 1911 barrel.

How consistent are Federal HST 185-grain JHP rounds in terms of velocity?

The video indicated that Federal HST 185-grain JHP ammunition, even though considered budget-friendly, provided consistent velocity readings across multiple shots for both the 5-inch and shorter barrel 1911s tested.

Which 1911 models were used for the barrel length velocity test?

The test featured a full-size 5-inch barrel Ruger SR1911 and a compact Colt Defender carry-size pistol. Both were chambered in .45 ACP and used for the chronograph comparison.

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