9mm vs 45 ACP Barrier Test: No Debate?

Published on December 7, 2023
Duration: 10:09

This video conducts a comprehensive barrier test comparing 9mm and .45 ACP ammunition across lumber, sand, concrete, and ballistics gel. The 9mm caliber demonstrated superior penetration in lumber and ballistics gel, ultimately winning the overall challenge. While both calibers struggled with sand and concrete barriers, the 9mm's performance in gel, including a slightly wider wound channel, suggests its effectiveness in self-defense scenarios.

Quick Summary

In a comprehensive barrier test, 9mm outperformed .45 ACP, winning the overall challenge 75 to 25. 9mm showed superior penetration in lumber and ballistics gel, achieving 13.25" penetration in gel versus .45 ACP's 12.75".

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: 9mm vs .45 ACP Barrier Test
  2. 00:17Round 1: Lumber Penetration Test
  3. 02:41Round 2: Sand Barrier Test
  4. 04:11Round 3: Concrete Paver Test
  5. 05:58Round 4: Ballistics Gel Test
  6. 09:51Conclusion: 9mm vs .45 ACP Results

Frequently Asked Questions

Which caliber performed better in the 9mm vs .45 ACP barrier test?

The 9mm caliber won the overall barrier test challenge with a score of 75 to 25. It demonstrated superior penetration through lumber and achieved better results in ballistics gel compared to the .45 ACP.

How did 9mm and .45 ACP perform against concrete barriers?

In the test against 1.57-inch concrete pavers, both 9mm and .45 ACP calibers shattered the concrete. However, neither caliber was able to penetrate fully and reach the plywood backing, resulting in a draw for this round.

What were the ballistics gel results for 9mm vs .45 ACP?

Using Federal HST ammunition, the 9mm (147 gr) penetrated 13.25 inches in ballistics gel, while the .45 ACP (230 gr) penetrated 12.75 inches. The 9mm also produced a slightly wider wound channel.

Did 9mm or .45 ACP penetrate deeper in lumber?

Yes, during the test involving 6x6 pressure-treated lumber, the 9mm bullets penetrated over an inch deeper than the .45 ACP counterparts. This gave the 9mm an early lead in the barrier test.

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