Will Ammo Fire If It's Completely FROZEN??? (Arctic Torture Test)

Published on January 30, 2026
Duration: 25:54

This "Arctic Torture Test" by 1ShotTV rigorously evaluates firearm performance with frozen ammunition in sub-zero Indiana temperatures. The host, demonstrating high authority, found that while most ammunition fires, mechanical failures often stem from ice interfering with the gun's cycling mechanism, particularly in firearms with tighter tolerances like the Hi-Point and AR-15. Platforms like the AK-47, with looser tolerances, and revolvers showed superior reliability in these extreme conditions.

Quick Summary

Frozen ammunition generally fires, but ice can cause mechanical failures in firearms. Issues like failure to return to battery or feed often occur due to ice buildup affecting the gun's cycling mechanism, especially in firearms with tighter tolerances. Platforms like the AK-47 and revolvers tend to be more reliable in extreme cold.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Arctic Torture Test Intro & Conditions
  2. 00:43Experiment Setup: Frozen Ammo & Guns
  3. 03:35.22 LR Test: Ruger Mark IV Lite Frozen
  4. 05:289mm Test: Hi-Point Yeet Cannon Failure
  5. 07:529mm Test: Glock 17 & Glock V Success
  6. 10:07.357 Magnum Test: SAR USA Revolver
  7. 11:41.50 AE Test: Desert Eagle Frozen
  8. 13:215.56 NATO Test: BCM AR-15 Initial Issues
  9. 15:117.62x39 Test: AK-47 Flawless
  10. 17:2112 Gauge Test: Mossberg Shockwave
  11. 19:01.50 BMG Test: Barrett Frozen APIT
  12. 21:16Conclusion: Frozen Ammo Reliability Factors

Frequently Asked Questions

Will ammunition fire if it is completely frozen?

Yes, in most cases, frozen ammunition will fire. The primary issue arises not from the primer or powder freezing, but from ice interfering with the firearm's mechanical operation, such as preventing the slide from returning to battery or causing feeding failures.

Which firearms are most reliable with frozen ammunition?

Firearms with looser tolerances, like the AK-47, tend to perform better with frozen ammunition. Revolvers and some semi-automatic pistols like Glocks also demonstrated high reliability in extreme cold, while firearms with tighter tolerances may experience more malfunctions.

What causes firearms to fail when using frozen ammunition?

Failures are typically caused by ice buildup. This ice can freeze magazines to receivers, prevent the bolt or slide from fully returning to battery, or impede the feeding of rounds from the magazine into the chamber.

Does extreme cold affect gunpowder or primers in ammunition?

While extreme cold can slightly affect propellant burn rates, it generally does not prevent ammunition from firing. The main challenge is the physical presence of ice impacting the firearm's moving parts and ammunition feeding system.

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from 1ShotTV

View all →