Tumble or Fumble?...Fort Scott Munitions TUI .38 Special Self-Defense AMMO Ballistic Gel Test!

Published on December 27, 2025
Duration: 14:53

This video provides a critical analysis of Fort Scott Munitions TUI .38 Special ammunition through ballistic gel testing. The expert instructor highlights significant velocity inconsistencies between shots fired from both a Taurus 856 and a Smith & Wesson 686 Plus, despite the projectiles successfully tumbling as designed and achieving adequate penetration. The review concludes that the ammunition is not recommended due to its unreliable performance characteristics.

Quick Summary

A ballistic gel test of Fort Scott Munitions TUI .38 Special ammo revealed critical velocity inconsistencies. Fired from a Taurus 856 and S&W 686 Plus, the rounds showed extreme velocity spreads, making them unreliable for self-defense despite successful tumbling and adequate penetration.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Setup
  2. 00:44Ammunition Overview
  3. 02:14Test Firearms
  4. 02:51Chronograph Testing (2-inch Barrel)
  5. 04:44Chronograph Testing (3-inch Barrel)
  6. 06:49Control Test
  7. 07:53Ballistic Gel Results
  8. 10:55Projectile Recovery and Final Assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the key findings of the Fort Scott Munitions TUI .38 Special ballistic gel test?

The test revealed significant velocity inconsistencies with the Fort Scott Munitions TUI .38 Special ammunition, firing from both a Taurus 856 and S&W 686 Plus. While the projectiles successfully tumbled and penetrated adequately, the extreme velocity spread made the ammo unreliable for self-defense.

How did the Fort Scott Munitions TUI .38 Special perform in terms of penetration?

The tumbling projectiles from the Fort Scott Munitions TUI .38 Special ammunition achieved penetration depths of 16.5 inches from a 2-inch barrel and 17.5 inches from a 3-inch barrel in ballistic gel, meeting expected terminal performance for tumbling rounds.

Why is velocity consistency important for self-defense ammunition?

Velocity consistency is crucial for self-defense ammunition because it ensures predictable performance. Extreme variations can lead to inconsistent penetration, tumbling, or expansion, potentially affecting the ammunition's ability to reliably stop a threat and increasing the risk of over-penetration.

What firearms were used in the ballistic gel test?

The ballistic gel test utilized a Taurus Model 856 with a 2-inch barrel and a Smith & Wesson 686 Plus with a 3-inch barrel. These revolvers represent common platforms for carrying .38 Special ammunition.

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