338 Lapua vs 7mm RM vs 308 Win vs 6.5 Grendel On Steel

Published on February 28, 2023
Duration: 9:56

This video provides an expert-level comparison of several popular rifle calibers (.338 Lapua Magnum, 7mm Remington Magnum, .308 Winchester, 6.5 Grendel, and .17 HMR) against mild steel targets of increasing thickness. The host, demonstrating high authority and technical proficiency, uses a chronograph and precise measurement tools to record muzzle velocities and penetration depths. The results offer valuable insights into the real-world performance of these rounds for tactical applications and long-range engagements.

Quick Summary

The .338 Lapua Magnum and 7mm Remington Magnum calibers demonstrated superior penetration capabilities against steel targets, successfully piercing 1/2 inch plates. The .338 Lapua Magnum showed the deepest penetration into 3/4 inch steel, while the .308 Winchester and 6.5 Grendel penetrated 1/4 inch steel but not 3/8 inch.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Skit
  2. 00:56Test Setup and Equipment
  3. 02:00.17 HMR Penetration Test
  4. 02:496.5 Grendel Penetration Test
  5. 03:20.308 Winchester Penetration Test
  6. 03:527mm Remington Magnum Penetration Test
  7. 04:33.338 Lapua Magnum Penetration Test
  8. 05:063/8 Inch Steel Plate Test
  9. 06:461/2 Inch Steel Plate Test
  10. 07:513/4 Inch Steel Plate Test
  11. 08:51Final Measurements and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

Which caliber penetrated the thickest steel plate in the test?

The .338 Lapua Magnum demonstrated the most significant penetration, successfully piercing 1/2 inch steel and leaving a deep crater in 3/4 inch steel. The 7mm Remington Magnum also penetrated 1/2 inch steel but showed less penetration on the 3/4 inch plate.

What were the key findings regarding the .308 Winchester and 6.5 Grendel?

Both the .308 Winchester and 6.5 Grendel calibers were able to penetrate 1/4 inch mild steel. However, they failed to penetrate 3/8 inch steel, indicating a performance level below the larger magnum cartridges tested.

How did the .17 HMR perform against steel targets?

The .17 HMR, even with a 17-grain CCI HP round traveling at 2575 fps, was unable to penetrate a 1/4 inch mild steel plate, leaving only a mark. This highlights its suitability for varmint hunting but not for applications requiring barrier penetration.

What equipment is necessary for conducting accurate ballistic penetration tests?

Accurate ballistic penetration tests require specialized equipment such as a robust target system (like the 'Steel Sled 2.0'), a chronograph to measure muzzle velocity, and precise measuring tools like digital calipers for determining penetration depth.

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