Rifle Penetration Test

Published on January 7, 2013
Duration: 12:08

This penetration test compares various rifle calibers against trees of different diameters. The 5.45x39mm consistently penetrated smaller trees, while larger calibers like .308 Winchester required high volume fire to breach a 2.5-foot diameter tree. The test highlights that only very thick trees (6ft+) offer reliable cover against rifle rounds.

Quick Summary

The 5.45x39mm caliber was the most consistent penetrator of trees in this test. Larger calibers like .308 Winchester required sustained fire to breach smaller trees, and only trees 6 feet or thicker were deemed reliable cover.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Rifle Penetration Test
  2. 01:155.45x39mm Test vs 3.5ft Tree
  3. 02:137.62x39mm Test vs 3.5ft Tree
  4. 03:05.223 Remington Test vs 3.5ft Tree
  5. 04:00.308 Winchester Test vs 3.5ft Tree
  6. 05:05Testing Smaller Tree (2.5ft Diameter)
  7. 06:16Caliber Comparison on Smaller Tree
  8. 09:30.308 Win Volume Test on 2.5ft Tree
  9. 10:15Conclusion: What Provides Cover?
  10. 11:23Safety Tip: Eye & Ear Protection

Frequently Asked Questions

Which rifle caliber penetrated trees most effectively in the test?

In this specific test, the 5.45x39mm caliber demonstrated the most consistent penetration against trees. While larger calibers like .308 Winchester eventually breached a smaller tree, the 5.45x39mm showed better performance on initial attempts against smaller targets.

Can a 3.5-foot diameter tree stop rifle rounds?

Surprisingly, in this test, a 3.5-foot diameter tree stopped 7.62x39mm and .223 Remington rounds. Even .308 Winchester rounds initially failed to penetrate it, suggesting dense wood can act as effective cover against certain rifle calibers under specific conditions.

How thick of a tree is needed for reliable cover against rifle fire?

According to the host's conclusion from this experiment, only very thick trees, estimated to be 6 feet or greater in diameter, can be considered reliable cover against rifle fire. Smaller trees offered less consistent protection.

What happened to the .308 Winchester rounds when testing penetration?

The .308 Winchester rounds initially failed to penetrate a 3.5-foot diameter tree. When testing a smaller 2.5-foot diameter tree, it took approximately 20 rounds of .308 Winchester fire to eventually breach it, causing significant damage upon exit.

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