Subsonic Vs Supersonic 22lr! (Lethality Test)

Published on December 23, 2025
Duration: 1:16

This test compares subsonic and supersonic .22LR ammunition lethality using Clear Ballistics gelatin and a cloth barrier. Results indicate that heavy subsonic FMJ rounds can penetrate beyond the FBI's 12-inch minimum, challenging the assumption that they are less deadly than supersonic hollow points. The supersonic hollow point demonstrated expected mushrooming.

Quick Summary

Heavy subsonic .22LR FMJ rounds can be surprisingly lethal, penetrating over 12 inches in ballistic gelatin with a cloth barrier, meeting FBI standards. This challenges the notion that subsonic ammo is inherently less deadly than supersonic rounds.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Subsonic vs Supersonic .22LR
  2. 00:11Test Setup: Ballistics Gelatin
  3. 00:21Supersonic .22LR Test Firing
  4. 00:26Subsonic .22LR Test Firing
  5. 00:34Barrier Testing: Jeans
  6. 00:44Results: Penetration & Expansion Analysis

Frequently Asked Questions

Are subsonic .22LR rounds less deadly than supersonic ones?

Not necessarily. This test showed heavy subsonic FMJ .22LR rounds penetrated over 12 inches in ballistic gelatin with a barrier, exceeding FBI standards, indicating significant lethality potential comparable to or exceeding some supersonic loads.

How does subsonic .22LR perform in ballistic gelatin?

Heavy subsonic .22LR FMJ rounds demonstrated deep penetration, exceeding 12 inches in Clear Ballistics gelatin when tested with a cloth barrier, suggesting they retain significant energy and effectiveness.

What is the difference in performance between subsonic and supersonic .22LR?

Supersonic hollow points tend to mushroom and expand upon impact. Subsonic FMJ rounds, while not expanding, can achieve deeper penetration, potentially exceeding 12 inches, making them surprisingly effective.

What are the FBI standards for bullet penetration?

The FBI generally requires handgun ammunition to penetrate at least 12 inches in ballistic gelatin to ensure it can reach vital organs through clothing or other barriers.

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