The Longer The Barrel, The Faster The Bullet

Published on January 31, 2022
Duration: 5:32

This video demonstrates how firearm barrel length directly impacts bullet velocity and energy. Using CCI Maxi Mag 22 Magnum ammunition, the presenter tested Heritage revolvers with barrel lengths of 1.68 inches, 6.5 inches, and 16 inches. The results clearly show that longer barrels yield higher velocities and greater energy, up to a point where friction may negate further gains.

Quick Summary

Firearm barrel length directly impacts bullet velocity and muzzle energy. Longer barrels provide more time for expanding gases to accelerate the bullet, leading to higher speeds and greater energy upon exit. However, excessive barrel length can increase friction, eventually limiting velocity gains.

Chapters

  1. 00:06Introduction: Barrel Length & Bullet Velocity
  2. 00:29Viewer Request & Test Setup
  3. 01:01Heritage Revolvers & Fair Testing
  4. 01:16Ammunition: CCI Maxi Mag 22 Magnum
  5. 01:34Featured Barrels: 1.68", 6.5", 16"
  6. 02:06Revolver Pressure Loss Considerations
  7. 02:20Chronograph Testing: 1.68" Barrel Results
  8. 03:14Chronograph Testing: 6.5" Barrel Results
  9. 03:53Chronograph Testing: 16" Barrel Results
  10. 04:19Final Velocity & Energy Comparison
  11. 04:45Why Longer Barrels Increase Velocity
  12. 04:56Limits of Barrel Length & Friction
  13. 05:13Conclusion & Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

How does firearm barrel length affect bullet speed?

A longer firearm barrel generally increases bullet velocity because it allows the expanding gases from the gunpowder more time to push the bullet, accelerating it further before it exits the muzzle. This principle is demonstrated by chronograph testing across various barrel lengths.

What is the relationship between barrel length and muzzle energy?

Bullet velocity is a key component in calculating muzzle energy. As demonstrated in tests, longer barrels increase bullet velocity, which in turn leads to higher muzzle energy, meaning the projectile carries more force upon impact.

Does barrel length have a limit for increasing bullet velocity?

Yes, there's a point of diminishing returns. While longer barrels increase velocity, eventually the friction of the bullet traveling down the bore can counteract the gas pressure, potentially slowing the bullet down if the barrel becomes excessively long.

What ammunition was used in the barrel length velocity test?

The test utilized CCI Maxi Mag 22 Magnum ammunition, specifically featuring 40-grain bullets. This choice was made to maximize pressure and clearly demonstrate the velocity differences across the tested barrel lengths.

Related News

All News →

More Range & Competition Videos You Might Like

More from Guns of the West

View all →