500 Auto Max vs Ballistic Gel

Published on May 24, 2018
Duration: 10:04

This ballistic gel test of the .500 Auto Max caliber from a Bighorn Armory AR-500 rifle showcases impressive terminal performance. Different ammunition types, including Barnes 275gr HP and Buffalo Bore 400gr Flat Point, were tested, demonstrating significant penetration and expansion. The .500 Auto Max, a rimless .500 S&W Magnum variant, proved effective in the AR platform, offering higher capacity and robust ballistics.

Quick Summary

The .500 Auto Max is a rimless variant of the .500 S&W Magnum, designed for AR-style platforms. Ballistic gel tests with the Bighorn Armory AR-500 showed impressive terminal performance, with loads like the 400gr Buffalo Bore Flat Point penetrating over 31 inches and hollow points exhibiting significant expansion.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Shooting Montage
  2. 00:56.500 Auto Max vs .500 S&W Magnum Explained
  3. 01:40Ammunition Overview & Chronograph Results
  4. 02:30Ballistic Gel Test: Barnes 275gr HP
  5. 03:35Ballistic Gel Test: Buffalo Bore 400gr Flat Point
  6. 04:56Ballistic Gel Test: 500gr Flat Point
  7. 05:54Ballistic Gel Test: 350gr XTP HP
  8. 07:17Post-Test Analysis & Projectile Measurements

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the .500 Auto Max caliber and how does it compare to the .500 S&W Magnum?

The .500 Auto Max is essentially a rimless version of the .500 S&W Magnum, specifically designed for reliable feeding and extraction in AR-style semi-automatic rifle platforms. It aims to deliver similar powerful ballistics in a more modern firearm configuration.

What were the key findings from the .500 Auto Max ballistic gel tests?

The tests showed significant terminal performance across various loads. Heavier bullets like the 500gr Flat Point achieved full penetration, while hollow points like the Barnes 275gr XPB and 350gr XTP demonstrated substantial expansion and wound cavities.

Which ammunition types were tested in the .500 Auto Max ballistic gel test?

The test included Barnes 275gr XPB HP, a 350gr XTP HP, Buffalo Bore 400gr Flat Point, and a 500gr Flat Point load. Velocities ranged from 1585 fps to 2345 fps.

What kind of penetration depths were observed in the .500 Auto Max gel tests?

Penetration depths varied by load, with the Barnes 275gr HP reaching about 21.75 inches and the 350gr XTP HP around 21.5 inches. The Buffalo Bore 400gr Flat Point exceeded 31 inches, and the 500gr Flat Point achieved full penetration through 32 inches.

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