HST vs GOLD DOT!...Short Barrel .357 Sig Self-Defense AMMO Ballistic Gel Test & Review!

This review details a ballistic gel test of Speer Gold Dot .357 Magnum 135-grain short barrel ammunition. The test evaluates performance from both a 2-inch and a 4-inch ported revolver, measuring velocity, penetration, and projectile expansion. The instructor notes the ammunition's effectiveness in expansion and penetration despite lower-than-expected velocities for the caliber.

This video presents a ballistic gel test and review of Speer Gold Dot 125-grain .357 Magnum ammunition, evaluating its performance from both a 4-inch and a 2-inch barrel. The instructor notes that while the 4-inch barrel achieved acceptable penetration and expansion, the velocity was lower than advertised, and he expresses a general dissatisfaction with Gold Dot's consistency across calibers. The 2-inch barrel demonstrated a significant velocity drop and complete failure to expand, leading to over-penetration and a classification as a failure for self-defense purposes.

This video details a ballistic gel test of Speer Gold Dot 185-grain .45 ACP ammunition, evaluating its performance from both a 5-inch 1911 and a 3.8-inch Glock 30. The test includes velocity measurements across various distances and detailed analysis of projectile expansion and penetration in gel with a clothing barrier. The instructor notes the ammunition's consistent performance and significant expansion, making it a viable self-defense option.

This video provides a detailed ballistic gel test of the Sig V-Crown Elite Performance .40 S&W 180gr ammunition, conducted by Buckeye Ballistics. The test evaluates penetration, expansion, and retained weight through a t-shirt and four layers of denim, using a Glock 35 with a 5.2-inch barrel. The instructor highlights the impressive wound cavity and expansion in the t-shirt test, noting slight over-penetration by FBI standards in the denim test.

This video conducts a ballistic gel test comparing Federal Premium HST and Speer Gold Dot 9mm Luger +P 124-grain self-defense ammunition. The test, performed with a Glock 19 Gen 5, evaluates expansion, penetration, and velocity. Both rounds demonstrated excellent performance, with the Gold Dot showing slightly more penetration and energy in this specific test, though the HST also performed exceptionally well.

This video explores the evolving landscape of handgun calibers, moving beyond the traditional 9mm. The presenter, Ted from Line 45, details several alternative calibers gaining traction in 2025, including 30 Super Carry for increased capacity in compacts, 5.7x28mm for flat trajectory and speed, 10mm for significant power and penetration, 357 SIG for barrier penetration and velocity, and 22TCM for rifle-like speed in a pistol platform. The discussion highlights the specific advantages and use cases for each caliber, suggesting a shift towards more specialized choices for concealed carry and self-defense.

This guide details the field strip and reassembly process for the Mossberg Maverick 88 shotgun, as demonstrated by the Tools&Targets host. It covers the removal and reinstallation of key internal components, emphasizing the platform's simplicity for maintenance. The host, possessing high authority and hands-on experience, provides practical insights into the shotgun's design and operation.

This video details a comprehensive terminal ballistics test of Federal Syntech Defense 9mm ammunition. The host, demonstrating high authority and expertise, uses professional equipment like LabRadar and standardized protocols to evaluate projectile performance in ballistic gel through a clothing barrier. The test compares results from a Canik Mete MC9 and a Glock 17 Gen 4, providing objective data on velocity, segmentation, and penetration depth.

This video provides an expert-level unboxing and range test of the Taurus Model 856 .38 Special revolver. The host, an experienced firearms enthusiast, conducts empirical trigger weight testing and side-by-side comparisons. He demonstrates proficiency in both single and double-action shooting, achieving tight groups at various distances and with different ammunition types. The review highlights the revolver's accuracy, reliability, and comfortable handling, recommending it as a solid choice for a .38 Special snub-nose.

This comprehensive review from Tools&Targets analyzes the performance of three top .380 ACP ammunition loads: Federal Premium Hydra-Shok Deep, Underwood Xtreme Penetrator, and Winchester 95-grain FMJ. Using a Ruger LCP Max and standardized ballistic gel testing through a heavy clothing barrier, the analysis provides objective data on velocity, penetration, and expansion. The expert assessment highlights the practical implications for concealed carry and self-defense scenarios.