9mm Full Metal Jacket Ballistic Gel Test. Viable Option For Self-Defense?

Published on August 29, 2021
Duration: 11:51

This video provides an expert-level analysis of 9mm Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) ammunition for self-defense, featuring a ballistic gel test conducted by an experienced firearms enthusiast. The test evaluates Winchester 115gr and 124gr FMJ rounds fired from a Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield EZ, measuring velocity and penetration depth. The findings highlight significant over-penetration risks, concluding that while FMJ can be a threat stopper, its use for self-defense requires extreme caution regarding backstop safety.

Quick Summary

9mm Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) ammunition is generally not recommended for self-defense due to its high penetration depth and lack of expansion, posing risks of over-penetration. While it can stop a threat, specialized defensive rounds offer better terminal ballistics and are safer for bystanders.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: 9mm FMJ for Self-Defense?
  2. 01:18Velocity Test: Winchester 115gr FMJ
  3. 02:11Velocity Test: Winchester 124gr FMJ
  4. 03:28Ballistic Gel Test Setup
  5. 05:49Gel Results: Penetration & Expansion Analysis
  6. 09:46Conclusion: FMJ for Self-Defense Risks

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 9mm Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) ammunition suitable for self-defense?

While 9mm FMJ can act as a threat stopper if necessary, it is generally not recommended for self-defense due to its tendency to over-penetrate. This poses a significant risk to bystanders and requires a very robust backstop. Specialized defensive ammunition typically offers better terminal ballistics with reduced penetration.

What were the penetration depths of 9mm FMJ rounds in the ballistic gel test?

In this test, the Winchester 115gr 9mm FMJ penetrated 23 inches in ballistic gel, and the 124gr 9mm FMJ penetrated 24.25 inches. Both depths significantly exceed the FBI's recommended 12-18 inch penetration range for self-defense ammunition.

Did the 9mm FMJ projectiles expand in the ballistic gel?

No, the 115gr and 124gr Winchester 9mm FMJ projectiles tested showed no expansion or significant deformation after penetrating the ballistic gel. They tumbled but retained their full metal jacketed form.

What firearm was used in the 9mm FMJ ballistic gel test?

The firearm used for the 9mm FMJ ballistic gel test was a Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield EZ pistol. This compact handgun features an internal hammer-fired action and a 3.5-inch barrel.

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