2 Insanely Powerful Subsonic Bullets

Published on May 16, 2025
Duration: 13:18

This video from Banana Ballistics provides an expert-level comparison of two powerful subsonic cartridges: the .50 Beowulf and the .45-70 Government, featuring Steinel heavy hard cast bullets. The host, demonstrating high expertise in ballistics, conducts controlled tests on ballistic gel, plywood, and steel targets, utilizing Banish suppressors. The analysis includes terminal performance, penetration capabilities, and recoil comparison, offering valuable insights for firearm enthusiasts interested in heavy subsonic loads.

Quick Summary

Expert analysis compares .50 Beowulf and .45-70 Government subsonic cartridges using Steinel heavy bullets. Tests on ballistic gel, plywood, and steel reveal differences in penetration and recoil, with the .45-70 showing potentially deeper penetration. User-serviceable suppressors like the Banish 46 V2 are highlighted for managing lead fouling from heavy subsonic loads.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Subsonic Heavyweights
  2. 00:35Supersonic Baseline Test
  3. 01:22Suppressor Acquisition and Setup
  4. 02:07.50 Beowulf Subsonic Testing
  5. 05:47Steel Target Impact
  6. 08:24.45-70 Subsonic and Banish 46 V2
  7. 09:10.45-70 Performance Testing
  8. 11:49Recoil Comparison and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between .50 Beowulf and .45-70 Government subsonic rounds?

The .50 Beowulf (700gr) and .45-70 Government (730gr) are both powerful subsonic options. Tests show the .45-70 may offer deeper penetration and slightly higher recoil (34 ft/lbs vs 31 ft/lbs). The host suggests 'skinny' bullets like the .45-70 penetrate better than 'wide' ones at subsonic speeds.

How does subsonic ammunition perform against barriers like plywood?

Subsonic rounds exhibit significant momentum but may lack the velocity to penetrate harder barriers after passing through softer media like ballistic gel. The .50 Beowulf failed to penetrate plywood post-gel, while the .45-70 nearly did, indicating differences in terminal ballistics and barrier interaction.

What are the benefits of user-serviceable suppressors for heavy subsonic loads?

User-serviceable suppressors, like the Banish 46 V2 with its 12 removable baffles, are ideal for heavy subsonic cartridges that can produce significant lead fouling. They allow for easy disassembly and cleaning, maintaining optimal performance and longevity.

What recoil can be expected from heavy subsonic cartridges like .50 Beowulf and .45-70?

Testing indicated the .50 Beowulf produced approximately 31 ft/lbs of felt recoil, while the .45-70 Government produced slightly more at around 34 ft/lbs. These figures provide a tangible comparison for shooters evaluating these powerful calibers.

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