Would You Bet On Black?...10MM Hornady Black Self-Defense AMMO Ballistic Gel Test!

Published on January 10, 2026
Duration: 11:52

This video provides a critical analysis of Hornady Black 10mm 155gr XTP ammunition through rigorous ballistic gel testing. The host, an experienced reviewer, uses professional equipment like LabRadar to measure velocities from both a Glock 29 and Glock 20. The results indicate that while the ammunition performed adequately in terms of expansion and penetration, the velocities achieved were significantly lower than advertised, leading to a conclusion that it performs more like a 'spicy .40 S&W' than true 10mm power.

Quick Summary

Expert ballistic gel testing of Hornady Black 10mm 155gr XTP revealed velocities averaging 1204 fps (Glock 29) and 1286 fps (Glock 20), significantly below the advertised 1410 fps. Despite lower velocity, the ammo expanded well (0.55"-0.59") and retained 97.5% weight, penetrating 17.5" (Glock 29) and 16" (Glock 20).

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Range Conditions
  2. 00:33Test Setup: Gel & Clothing Barrier
  3. 01:34Firearms: Glock 29 vs Glock 20
  4. 02:01Chronograph Test: Glock 29 Velocity
  5. 03:32Chronograph Test: Glock 20 Velocity & Energy
  6. 04:54Ballistic Gel Shots
  7. 06:17Gel Analysis: Penetration & Wound Channel
  8. 08:11Projectile Recovery & Measurements
  9. 09:26Final Assessment & Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

How did the Hornady Black 10mm 155gr XTP perform in ballistic gel tests?

The Hornady Black 10mm 155gr XTP ammunition showed good terminal ballistics, achieving significant expansion and retaining most of its weight (around 97.5%). Penetration depths were 17.5 inches from a Glock 29 and 16 inches from a Glock 20, with expanded diameters between 0.55" and 0.59".

What were the actual velocities achieved by the Hornady Black 10mm ammunition?

During testing with a LabRadar chronograph, the Hornady Black 10mm 155gr XTP averaged 1204 fps from a Glock 29 (3.8" barrel) and 1286 fps from a Glock 20 (4.6" barrel). These velocities were considerably lower than the advertised 1410 fps.

Is Hornady Black 10mm a good self-defense round based on this test?

While the ammunition expanded well and penetrated adequately, its significantly lower-than-advertised velocity led the expert reviewer to question its 'true' 10mm performance, likening it to a 'spicy .40 S&W'. Further testing or comparison might be needed for a definitive recommendation.

What firearms were used in the Hornady Black 10mm ballistic gel test?

The ballistic gel test utilized two Glock pistols: the Glock 29, representing a subcompact/EDC platform with a 3.8-inch barrel, and the Glock 20, a full-size pistol with a 4.6-inch barrel. Both were chambered in 10mm Auto.

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