Ballistics testing: M9 vs.1860 Army

Published on August 5, 2013
Duration: 8:27

This video provides a direct ballistics comparison between a modern Beretta M9A1 (9mm) and a historical Colt 1860 Army (.44 caliber) revolver. The M9A1 demonstrated superior muzzle velocity (1138 fps vs. 752.7 fps) and significantly greater penetration and wound cavity in ballistic gel compared to the 1860 Army. Despite the historical firearm's lower performance, it remains a potent weapon, though its loading process is considerably more time-consuming.

Quick Summary

In a ballistics test, the Beretta M9A1 (9mm) averaged 1138 fps, penetrating 29 inches of gel with significant tumbling. The Colt 1860 Army (.44) averaged 752.7 fps, penetrating 23 inches with a narrow wound channel. Neither bullet expanded, retaining nearly all their weight.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: M9 vs. 1860 Army Ballistics
  2. 01:081860 Army Function Check & Prep
  3. 01:37Chronograph: M9A1 vs. 1860 Army Velocity
  4. 02:52M9A1 9mm Ballistics Gel Test
  5. 03:41Loading the 1860 Army Revolver
  6. 05:071860 Army .44 Ballistics Gel Test
  7. 06:00Bullet Recovery and Analysis
  8. 06:51Final Conclusion: Modern vs. Historical

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the muzzle velocities of the Beretta M9A1 and the Colt 1860 Army in the test?

The Beretta M9A1 averaged 1138 feet per second (fps) with 115-grain Federal ball ammunition. The Colt 1860 Army averaged 752.7 fps using a 140-grain lead ball and 30 grains of Triple Seven powder.

How did the penetration and wound channels compare in the ballistic gel tests?

The 9mm M9A1 round penetrated 29 inches of gel, tumbling and creating a significant wound track. The .44 caliber 1860 Army round penetrated 23 inches, leaving a straighter, narrower track with minimal projectile deformation.

Did the bullets expand or retain weight in the ballistic gel?

No, both the 9mm and .44 caliber bullets retained nearly 100% of their weight and showed no expansion. The recovered projectiles displayed only rifling marks and indentations from the loading process.

What are the key advantages of the modern Beretta M9A1 over the historical 1860 Army?

The M9A1 offers superior ballistics, including greater penetration and a larger wound cavity. It also boasts significantly faster reload times, higher reliability, and a more modern, user-friendly design compared to the cap and ball revolver.

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