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

Published on August 29, 2021
Duration: 11:51

This ballistic gel test evaluates 9mm Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) ammunition as a potential self-defense option, particularly during ammo shortages. While FMJ can act as a threat stopper, the test revealed significant over-penetration issues, with rounds exceeding 23 inches of penetration in gel and showing no expansion. The host emphasizes the critical need for a safe backstop due to this over-penetration risk.

Quick Summary

9mm FMJ ammunition can act as a threat stopper but poses a significant over-penetration risk. In ballistic gel tests, both 115gr and 124gr rounds exceeded 23 inches of penetration without expansion, highlighting the critical need for a safe backstop.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: 9mm FMJ for Self-Defense?
  2. 01:18Velocity Test: 115 Grain FMJ
  3. 02:11Velocity Test: 124 Grain FMJ
  4. 03:28Ballistic Gel Test Setup
  5. 05:49Gel Results: Penetration & Wound Channel
  6. 09:46Conclusion: FMJ Over-penetration Risk

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 9mm FMJ ammunition suitable for self-defense?

While 9mm FMJ can act as a threat stopper, this ballistic gel test revealed significant over-penetration issues. Both 115gr and 124gr rounds exceeded 23 inches of penetration in gel without expanding, posing a risk due to the backstop.

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

The 115-grain 9mm FMJ round penetrated 23 inches into the ballistic gel, while the 124-grain FMJ round penetrated 24.25 inches. Both rounds tumbled but did not expand.

What are the risks associated with using 9mm FMJ for self-defense?

The primary risk is extreme over-penetration. FMJ rounds lack expansion and can travel through targets and multiple barriers, posing a significant danger to unintended targets or individuals behind the threat.

What velocities were recorded for the tested 9mm FMJ rounds?

The Winchester 115-grain 9mm FMJ averaged 1149 feet per second, and the Winchester 124-grain 9mm FMJ averaged 1117 feet per second when fired from a Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield EZ.

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