Back In BLACK!...357 Magnum Winchester Black Talon Self-Defense AMMO Ballistic Gel Test & Review!

Published on November 23, 2025
Duration: 11:29

This comprehensive review details a ballistic gel test of the Winchester Black Talon .357 Magnum 180-grain ammunition. Conducted by the Tools&Targets host, the test utilized a Ruger GP100 and Colt Python, measuring velocities with a LabRadar and analyzing wound channels through heavy clothing barriers. The results demonstrate significant expansion and penetration, with projectiles retaining 100% of their weight and expanding to approximately 0.75 inches, showcasing the effectiveness of this older ammunition design.

Quick Summary

The Winchester Black Talon .357 Magnum 180-grain ammunition demonstrated impressive terminal ballistics in a ballistic gel test, achieving 20-20.5 inches of penetration and 100% weight retention with 0.72-0.75 inch expansion. Velocities averaged 1175 FPS (4" GP100) and 1238 FPS (6" Python).

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Range Setup
  2. 00:41Ammunition Overview: Winchester Black Talon .357 Magnum
  3. 01:47Test Firearms: Ruger GP100 vs. Colt Python
  4. 02:05Velocity Testing Results
  5. 04:56Ballistic Gel Test Firing
  6. 06:00Wound Track Analysis
  7. 08:14Projectile Recovery & Measurements
  8. 10:15Conclusion & Gear

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the key performance metrics for the Winchester Black Talon .357 Magnum 180-grain ammunition in the ballistic gel test?

The Winchester Black Talon .357 Magnum 180-grain load achieved approximately 20-20.5 inches of penetration in ballistic gel through heavy clothing. Recovered projectiles showed 100% weight retention and expanded to 0.72-0.75 inches, demonstrating significant terminal performance.

What velocities were recorded for the Winchester Black Talon .357 Magnum during the test?

Using a LabRadar chronograph, the 4-inch Ruger GP100 yielded an average velocity of 1175 FPS, while the 6-inch Colt Python averaged 1238 FPS for the Winchester Black Talon .357 Magnum 180-grain ammunition.

How did the Winchester Black Talon .357 Magnum perform compared to modern self-defense loads?

While the Black Talon's performance exceeded expectations for an older design, demonstrating excellent expansion and penetration, the video suggests comparing it to modern high-performance loads like Buffalo Bore is worthwhile to gauge its standing against current technology.

What firearms were used in the ballistic gel test of the Winchester Black Talon .357 Magnum?

The test utilized two revolvers to compare barrel length effects: a 4-inch barrel Ruger GP100 and a 6-inch barrel Colt Python. Both are chambered in .357 Magnum.

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