Shooting the Worlds Shortest AR15

Published on August 16, 2024
Duration: 24:03

This video tests the functionality and ballistics of an extremely short 4.75-inch barrel AR-15 in 5.56 NATO. Despite common concerns about reliability with short barrels, this build cycles reliably, though it produces a massive fireball and concussion. Velocity and energy are significantly reduced compared to longer barrels, impacting terminal ballistics, but it remains lethal. The extreme muzzle blast poses a significant safety risk if hands are held too close.

Quick Summary

An AR-15 with a 4.75-inch barrel can be reliable, but it produces a massive fireball and significant velocity loss, averaging 1850 fps. Terminal ballistics are reduced, though still lethal. Extreme muzzle blast poses a serious safety risk if hands are held too close.

Chapters

  1. 02:34Introducing the 4.75" AR-15
  2. 05:14First Shots & Cycling Test
  3. 08:33Velocity Comparison: 4.75" vs Longer Barrels
  4. 12:44Ballistics Gel Testing Results
  5. 15:08Muzzle Blast Safety Demonstration
  6. 17:32Suppressed & Rapid Fire Test

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a 4.75-inch barrel AR-15 reliable?

Yes, the 4.75-inch barrel AR-15 tested by Demolition Ranch demonstrated reliable cycling of ammunition, contrary to common expectations for such short barrels. This suggests that with proper design, even ultra-short configurations can function.

What are the performance differences between a 4.75-inch and a 20-inch AR-15 barrel?

The 4.75-inch barrel significantly reduces velocity and kinetic energy. Compared to a 20-inch barrel, it averages around 1850 fps and 436 ft-lbs, losing nearly half its velocity and two-thirds of its energy.

What are the safety risks of shooting a 4.75-inch barrel AR-15?

The primary safety risk is the extreme muzzle blast. Holding hands too close to the muzzle can cause severe burns and injury due to the intense heat and pressure from unburnt powder exiting the barrel.

How does a 4.75-inch barrel affect terminal ballistics?

While still lethal, the reduced velocity from a 4.75-inch barrel results in less dramatic projectile fragmentation and a smaller temporary wound cavity in ballistics gel compared to higher-velocity rounds from longer barrels.

Related News

All News →

More Range & Competition Videos You Might Like

More from DemolitionRanch

View all →