5.7x28 FN FMJ vs FN SS197 Ballistic Gel Review & Test

Published on May 17, 2025
Duration: 15:26

This video provides a detailed ballistic gelatin test comparing FN's 40-grain FMJ and 40-grain SS197 V-Max ammunition fired from a PSA Rock 57 pistol. The test evaluates projectile performance, including velocity, penetration, expansion, and tumbling, both in bare gelatin and after passing through a makeshift barrier. The presenter notes the tendency of 5.7x28mm FMJ to tumble and its impact on damage, contrasting it with the SS197's ballistic tip performance.

Quick Summary

In ballistic gelatin tests, FN 5.7x28mm FMJ ammunition typically tumbles around 5 inches, creating a small wound channel before significant damage. The FN SS197 V-Max, with its ballistic tip, generally fragments and expands more reliably, creating a wider wound cavity up to approximately 12.25 inches.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: 5.7x28mm Ballistic Gel Test
  2. 00:05Testing FN FMJ vs. FN SS197 V-Max
  3. 00:52Test Pistol: PSA Rock 57
  4. 01:01Ballistic Gelatin Setup
  5. 02:04Makeshift Barrier Test Preparation
  6. 03:07Chronograph Readings: FN FMJ
  7. 04:07Chronograph Readings: FN SS197
  8. 04:55Setting Up Gel Blocks for Firing
  9. 05:12Firing FN FMJ into Gel
  10. 05:31Analyzing FMJ Wound Channel
  11. 07:14Analyzing SS197 Wound Channel
  12. 08:24Preparing for Barrier Test
  13. 08:51Barrier Test: Firing SS197
  14. 09:10Barrier Test: Firing FMJ
  15. 10:01Analyzing Barrier Test Results: SS197
  16. 10:26Analyzing Barrier Test Results: FMJ
  17. 12:04Measuring Barrier Test Penetration
  18. 12:25Projectile Weight and Measurement
  19. 13:56Measuring Expansion Diameter
  20. 14:27Conclusion and Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

How does FN 5.7x28mm FMJ perform in ballistic gelatin?

The FN 5.7x28mm FMJ ammunition tends to tumble around 5 inches into ballistic gelatin. Before tumbling, it creates a small pinhole. Once it tumbles, it causes significant damage, but its effectiveness is dependent on this tumbling action.

What is the performance of FN 5.7x28mm SS197 V-Max in ballistic gelatin?

The FN 5.7x28mm SS197 V-Max ammunition, featuring a ballistic tip, typically fragments and creates a wider wound cavity. In tests, it extended to about 12.25 inches and achieved an expansion diameter of roughly 0.55 inches.

How does a makeshift barrier affect 5.7x28mm ammunition performance in ballistic gelatin?

A makeshift barrier, like stacked napkins and targets, significantly altered performance. The SS197 V-Max did not expand and tumbled after 2 inches. The FMJ also tumbled quickly with minimal effect through the barrier, showing reduced terminal ballistics.

What are the average velocities for FN 5.7x28mm FMJ and SS197 ammunition?

The FN 5.7x28mm FMJ averaged around 1600 feet per second, demonstrating consistent velocities. The FN 5.7x28mm SS197 V-Max averaged slightly higher, around 1655 feet per second, and also showed good consistency.

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