Which Caliber Can Bust Open a Lock?

Published on September 11, 2015
Duration: 9:13

This video tests the effectiveness of various calibers against high-security Brinks padlocks. It demonstrates that smaller calibers like .22 LR and 9mm are largely ineffective, while rifle rounds like 5.56mm and .44 Magnum cause significant damage but may not immediately breach the lock. High-power rounds like 12 Gauge slugs and .50 BMG prove capable of complete destruction.

Quick Summary

Testing reveals that smaller calibers like .22 LR and 9mm are ineffective against high-security padlocks, only causing minor damage or jamming. Rifle rounds like 5.56mm and .44 Magnum cause more significant damage but may require multiple shots. High-power rounds like 12 Gauge slugs and .50 BMG are capable of complete destruction and breach.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Testing Movie Lock Myths
  2. 00:36.22 LR Padlock Test
  3. 01:459mm Pistol Effectiveness
  4. 02:375.56mm Rifle Power Test
  5. 03:51.44 Magnum Lever-Action Test
  6. 06:1612 Gauge Shotgun Slug Power
  7. 07:44.50 BMG Total Destruction

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a .22 LR bullet break a high-security padlock?

No, a .22 LR round is largely ineffective against high-security padlocks like the Brinks model tested. While multiple shots can jam the lock and make it unusable, it remains securely locked and unbreached.

What caliber is needed to effectively breach a high-security padlock?

To effectively breach a high-security padlock, significant power is required. While 5.56mm and .44 Magnum cause damage, a 12 Gauge slug or a .50 BMG round are shown to be capable of complete destruction and breach.

How does a 9mm round perform against a padlock?

A 9mm handgun round can cause some structural damage to a padlock, such as breaking off bottom tabs. However, it is not powerful enough to overcome the lock's mechanism and open it.

Which firearm caliber is most effective for destroying a padlock?

The .50 BMG caliber, demonstrated with a Barrett M82A1, is the most effective for destroying a padlock. A single shot completely obliterates the lock and its mounting, proving absolute breach capability.

Related News

All News →

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from DemolitionRanch

View all →