Short vs. Long Barrel 22 Magnum Test

Published on March 15, 2025
Duration: 6:56

This video compares the ballistic performance of .22 Magnum ammunition from a short-barreled revolver versus a 16-inch barreled rifle. It highlights the significant velocity and energy loss in short-barreled revolvers due to barrel length and cylinder gap, demonstrating how these factors impact terminal ballistics.

Quick Summary

Shorter barrels in revolvers significantly reduce .22 Magnum velocity because there's less time for the gunpowder to fully combust and propel the bullet. This loss is compounded by gas escaping through the cylinder gap, a necessary space for cylinder rotation but a detriment to ballistic performance.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Short vs. Long Barrel .22 Magnum
  2. 00:10Question: Barrel Length & Velocity
  3. 00:23Ammunition Used: Armscor 40 Grain .22 Magnum
  4. 00:45Factors Affecting Revolver Performance
  5. 01:05Understanding Cylinder Gap
  6. 01:58Short Barrel Revolver Test Results
  7. 03:4216-Inch Barrel Revolver Test Results
  8. 04:02Target Testing: Steel Cans & Water Jug
  9. 04:19Short Barrel Revolver vs. Targets
  10. 05:34Longer Barrel Revolver vs. Targets
  11. 06:03Comparing Target Impact
  12. 06:26Conclusion: Longer Barrel Advantage
  13. 06:36Outro & Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

How does barrel length affect .22 Magnum velocity in revolvers?

Shorter barrels in revolvers significantly reduce .22 Magnum velocity because there's less time for the gunpowder to fully combust and propel the bullet. This loss is compounded by gas escaping through the cylinder gap.

What is a cylinder gap and how does it impact firearm performance?

The cylinder gap is the small space between the cylinder and the barrel in a revolver. It's necessary for the cylinder to rotate but causes gas to escape, reducing muzzle velocity and energy compared to firearms without this gap.

Does a longer barrel make a noticeable difference for .22 Magnum in revolvers?

Yes, while steel target tests might show minimal difference, a longer barrel allows for more complete powder burn and less gas escape, resulting in higher velocity and energy, which is evident in more significant target impacts like on a water jug.

What are the typical ballistics for Armscor 40-grain .22 Magnum ammunition?

Armscor rates their 40-grain .22 Magnum ammunition for approximately 1875 feet per second and 312 foot-pounds of energy when fired from a rifle. Revolver performance will be considerably lower.

Related News

All News →

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from DEUCE AND GUNS

View all →