More Like a Tremor...Seismic Ammo 9MM +M Quakemaker Self-Defense AMMO Ballistic Gel Test!

Published on March 6, 2026
Duration: 14:09

This review details a ballistic gel test of Seismic Ammo's 9mm Quakemaker +M 185-grain rounds. The test, conducted by an experienced firearms instructor, evaluated performance through a heavy clothing barrier using a Ruger PC Charger and an HK SP5. The results indicated significant tumbling and a complete failure of the projectile to expand, leading to poor penetration performance and a negative recommendation for self-defense.

Quick Summary

The Seismic Ammo Quakemaker +M 9mm 185-grain rounds failed to expand in ballistic gel after passing through a heavy clothing barrier, exhibiting significant tumbling. Velocities averaged 898 FPS (6.5" barrel) and 949 FPS (8.9" barrel), with penetration depths of 22.5" and 31" respectively. The instructor deemed them unsuitable for self-defense.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Test Setup
  2. 00:24Ballistic Gel & Clothing Barrier
  3. 00:41Seismic Ammo Quakemaker +M Intro
  4. 01:23Ammunition Construction
  5. 02:18Velocity Expectations
  6. 02:50Ruger PC Charger Chronograph Results
  7. 03:38PC Charger Velocity Analysis
  8. 04:07HK SP5 Chronograph Results
  9. 04:44HK SP5 Velocity & Muzzle Energy
  10. 05:31Ballistic Gel Test - PC Charger
  11. 06:04Ballistic Gel Test - HK SP5
  12. 06:44Gel Test Results & Penetration
  13. 08:18Close-up of Gel Tracks
  14. 09:09Recovered Projectiles
  15. 11:16Conclusion & Personal Opinion
  16. 13:00Future Plans & Community

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the key findings from the Seismic Ammo Quakemaker +M 9mm ballistic gel test?

The Seismic Ammo Quakemaker +M 9mm 185-grain rounds failed to expand after passing through a heavy clothing barrier. They exhibited significant tumbling in ballistic gel and were clogged with fabric, leading to a negative recommendation for self-defense.

What were the recorded velocities for the Seismic Ammo Quakemaker +M 9mm?

Velocities averaged around 898 FPS from a 6.5-inch Ruger PC Charger and 949 FPS from an 8.9-inch HK SP5. Muzzle energy was 331 ft-lb and 370 ft-lb respectively.

How did the Seismic Ammo Quakemaker +M 9mm perform in terms of penetration?

The rounds penetrated 22.5 inches in ballistic gel from a 6.5-inch barrel and 31 inches from an 8.9-inch barrel after passing through a heavy clothing barrier. The lack of expansion contributed to these penetration depths.

What is the construction of the Seismic Ammo Quakemaker +M 9mm rounds?

These rounds feature 185-grain projectiles with a black Lubalox-like coating and Shell Shock multi-piece cases made of stainless steel with an aluminum base, designed for higher pressures.

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