Is It GOOD Without The Lever?....357 Mag vs .44 Mag Lever Evolution AMMO From Revolvers!

Published on May 6, 2023
Duration: 12:48

This video details a ballistic gel test comparing Hornady LeverEvolution .357 Magnum and .44 Magnum ammunition fired from revolvers. The instructor provides chronograph data, penetration depths, and projectile expansion measurements, highlighting the performance differences between the two calibers and comparing them to previous lever-action rifle tests. The ammunition is recommended for woods walking and hunting applications.

Quick Summary

Hornady LeverEvolution .357 Magnum and .44 Magnum ammunition fired from revolvers showed effective ballistic performance. The .44 Magnum achieved 26.5 inches of penetration and significant expansion, while the .357 Magnum penetrated 21.25 inches. Average velocities were 1342 fps for .357 Mag and 1384 fps for .44 Mag from 4-inch barrels.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Test Setup
  2. 00:24Ballistic Gel and Barrier Setup
  3. 00:57Ammunition Overview: Hornady LeverEvolution
  4. 01:23Test Firearms: Taurus Revolvers
  5. 02:31Chronographing .357 Magnum Velocities
  6. 03:54Chronographing .44 Magnum Velocities
  7. 05:20Ballistic Gel Test: .357 Magnum
  8. 06:13Ballistic Gel Test: .44 Magnum
  9. 06:47Gel Results Analysis: .357 Magnum
  10. 07:39Gel Results Analysis: .44 Magnum
  11. 08:33Overhead Gel Comparison
  12. 09:04Projectile Recovery and Analysis
  13. 10:04Projectile Weights and Measurements
  14. 11:01Conclusion: Revolver Evolution Performance
  15. 11:31Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences in performance between .357 Magnum and .44 Magnum Hornady LeverEvolution ammunition when fired from revolvers?

In this test, the .44 Magnum (225gr) demonstrated greater penetration (26.5 inches) and expansion (up to 0.657 inches) compared to the .357 Magnum (140gr), which penetrated 21.25 inches and expanded to approximately 0.612 inches. Both calibers showed significant disruption and material loss.

What were the average velocities achieved by .357 Magnum and .44 Magnum Hornady LeverEvolution rounds from 4-inch ported revolvers?

The .357 Magnum averaged 1342 feet per second, while the .44 Magnum averaged 1384 feet per second. These velocities are lower than advertised, likely due to the shorter barrel length of the revolvers compared to the test barrels used for the box ratings.

How does Hornady LeverEvolution ammunition perform from revolvers compared to lever-action rifles?

While lever-action rifles yield higher velocities and energy, the ballistic gel performance (expansion and disruption) from revolvers is still considered very effective. The instructor noted minimal difference in gel results between the two platforms, suggesting revolvers can effectively utilize this ammunition.

What are the recommended applications for Hornady LeverEvolution ammunition based on this revolver test?

Based on the observed performance, this ammunition is highly recommended for woods walking and hunting applications. The significant expansion and penetration suggest it is well-suited for taking down medium-sized game or for general preparedness in wilderness environments.

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