Firearm Facts Episode 28: The Truth about Winchester Black Talon

Published on September 17, 2013
Duration: 4:39

This review delves into the controversial Winchester Black Talon ammunition, examining its unique cutting-tissue design and historical context. Despite its fearsome reputation, testing suggests it had less stopping power than other hollow points. The video also compares its performance and design to modern alternatives like the Winchester Ranger and MagSafe frangible rounds, highlighting differences in bullet construction and wounding mechanisms.

Quick Summary

The Winchester Black Talon, introduced in 1992, was voluntarily removed from the market in 1993 due to controversy. Its unique design aimed to cut tissue, but studies suggest it had less stopping power than other hollow points. Water tests showed excellent weight retention, with bullets maintaining their sharp shape.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Black Talon History & Controversy
  2. 00:42Technical Design: Cutting Tissue Mechanism
  3. 01:22Effectiveness: Stopping Power vs. Reputation
  4. 02:00Water Testing: Weight Retention & Shape
  5. 03:00Comparison: Black Talon vs. Ranger & MagSafe

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was Winchester Black Talon ammunition removed from the market?

Winchester voluntarily removed the Black Talon ammunition from the market in November 1993. This decision was driven by public controversy and concerns raised by the medical community regarding the ammunition's sharp jacket petals and perceived excessive tissue damage.

What made the Winchester Black Talon's bullet design unique?

The Black Talon featured a jacket designed to actively cut tissue, creating a third wounding mechanism. Unlike traditional hollow points where the jacket folds back, the Black Talon's petals were intended to enhance tissue damage.

Did the Winchester Black Talon have high stopping power?

Despite its fearsome reputation, the Black Talon reportedly had the least stopping power of any hollow point tested in a 17-year study referenced in the 'Street Stoppers' book. Other ammunition types, like MagSafe frangible rounds, showed superior stopping power in comparative tests.

How did the Black Talon perform in weight retention tests?

In water testing, 200-grain Winchester Black Talon bullets fired from Glock 20 and 29 pistols demonstrated exceptional weight retention. Recovered bullets weighed approximately 199.2 grains, maintaining their distinctive sharp 'talon' shape.

Related News

All News →

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Iraqveteran8888

View all →