HST VS Gold Dot!...45 ACP Carbine Self-Defense Ballistic Gel AMMO Test!

Published on November 30, 2025
Duration: 10:03

This video provides an expert-level ballistic gel test comparing Federal HST and Speer Gold Dot .45 ACP ammunition fired from a Ruger LC Carbine. The host, demonstrating high authority through detailed analysis and professional equipment, found both rounds performed exceptionally well, with nearly identical expansion and weight retention. The test highlights the effectiveness of these premium self-defense rounds when fired from a carbine platform.

Quick Summary

Expert ballistic gel testing shows both Federal HST and Speer Gold Dot 230-grain .45 ACP ammunition perform exceptionally well from a 16.25-inch carbine. Both rounds exhibited robust expansion (around 0.75 inches) and deep penetration (15.25-17.5 inches) while retaining nearly all their weight, making them excellent self-defense choices.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Setup
  2. 01:34Federal HST Velocity Test
  3. 03:03Speer Gold Dot Velocity Test
  4. 04:19Ballistic Gel Impact
  5. 05:21Gel Track Analysis
  6. 07:04Recovered Projectile Examination
  7. 09:07Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Federal HST .45 ACP perform from a 16-inch carbine?

The 230-grain Federal HST averaged 959 fps from a 16.25-inch barrel. It penetrated 17.5 inches in ballistic gel and expanded to approximately 0.75 inches, retaining nearly 100% of its weight, demonstrating excellent performance for self-defense.

What were the results for Speer Gold Dot .45 ACP fired from a carbine?

The 230-grain Speer Gold Dot averaged 993 fps from a 16.25-inch barrel, producing 504 ft-lb of energy. It penetrated 15.25 inches in ballistic gel and expanded to about 0.72 inches, retaining almost all its original weight.

Is .45 ACP effective from a carbine for self-defense?

Yes, this test shows .45 ACP ammunition like Federal HST and Speer Gold Dot performs very effectively from a 16-inch carbine. The increased barrel length boosts velocity, enhancing expansion and penetration characteristics suitable for self-defense scenarios.

Which .45 ACP round is better for self-defense: HST or Gold Dot?

According to this expert test, both Federal HST and Speer Gold Dot .45 ACP rounds performed nearly identically and exceptionally well from a carbine. Either would be an excellent choice for self-defense, showing robust expansion and deep penetration.

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