308 vs Steel: Bullets Make A BIG Difference

Published on May 30, 2023
Duration: 9:14

This video provides a methodical test of various .308 Winchester bullet types against steel plates of increasing thickness, from 1/4 inch to 1 inch. The host, demonstrating high authority in amateur ballistic testing, uses a custom rifle and MagnetoSpeed V3 chronograph to record velocities and penetration depths. Key findings highlight how bullet construction and weight significantly impact performance, with specialized AP rounds showing superior penetration compared to standard hunting and match bullets.

Quick Summary

Expert ballistic testing reveals that .308 Winchester bullet performance on steel varies greatly by type. Standard bullets often fail to penetrate 1/2 inch steel, while specialized AP rounds demonstrate superior capability. Key factors include bullet construction, weight, and velocity, with tools like chronographs and calipers essential for accurate measurement.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Motivation
  2. 00:19Test Setup and Equipment
  3. 01:241/4 Inch Steel Plate Testing
  4. 02:593/8 Inch Steel Plate Testing
  5. 05:021/2 Inch Steel Plate Testing
  6. 06:31Armor Piercing (AP) Round Test
  7. 07:40Data Analysis and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

How do different .308 Winchester bullet types perform against steel plates?

Testing shows significant variation. Standard 150-165gr lead-core bullets often fail to penetrate 1/2 inch steel. Specialized bullets like a 163gr AP round easily penetrated thicker steel plates, demonstrating superior performance due to hardened construction.

What equipment is needed for ballistic testing of bullet penetration on steel?

Essential equipment includes a reliable rifle chambered in the desired caliber (e.g., a custom .308 with a 24-inch barrel), a ballistic chronograph (like the MagnetoSpeed V3) for velocity measurement, and tools for precise measurement of penetration depth, such as digital calipers and a grinder.

Which .308 bullet types are best for penetrating steel targets?

For significant steel penetration, specialized Armor-Piercing (AP) rounds are most effective. Standard hunting or match bullets, even heavier ones, typically lack the construction to consistently penetrate steel thicker than 3/8 inch.

What factors influence a bullet's ability to penetrate steel?

Bullet construction (e.g., solid copper, hardened steel core), weight, and velocity are key factors. Heavier, faster bullets with robust construction, like AP rounds, will penetrate steel more effectively than lighter, softer-construction bullets.

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