45-70 vs 500 S&W Magnum vs Ballistic Gel (Rifle & Pistol)

Published on August 2, 2018
Duration: 12:56

This video provides a detailed comparison of the .500 S&W Magnum and .45-70 Government calibers using both revolvers and rifles, tested through ballistic gel. Expert analysis from Scott highlights velocity differences, penetration depths, and bullet expansion characteristics for various ammunition types. The methodical testing approach offers valuable insights into the terminal ballistics of these powerful cartridges.

Quick Summary

Scott from Kentucky Ballistics conducted a detailed ballistic gel test comparing the .500 S&W Magnum and .45-70 Government calibers using both revolvers and rifles. He recorded velocities, penetration depths, and analyzed bullet expansion and weight retention, finding the .45-70 Government rifle round offered superior penetration and integrity in this test.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Firearms Overview
  2. 00:42Ammunition and Chronograph Testing
  3. 02:10Ballistic Gel Testing: Revolvers
  4. 05:37Ballistic Gel Testing: Rifles
  5. 08:35Bullet Recovery and Analysis

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences in ballistic performance between the .500 S&W Magnum and .45-70 Government calibers?

The .500 S&W Magnum revolver penetrated 24.5 inches in gel, while the .45-70 Government revolver achieved 32 inches. From rifles, the .45-70 Government penetrated 31 inches with better bullet integrity, compared to the .500 S&W Magnum's 22.5 inches and significant fragmentation.

What were the recorded muzzle velocities for the .500 S&W Magnum and .45-70 Government in the test?

The .500 S&W Magnum achieved 1969 fps from the revolver and 2244 fps from the rifle. The .45-70 Government recorded 1724 fps from the revolver and 1857 fps from the rifle.

Which ammunition types were used in the .500 S&W Magnum vs .45-70 Government ballistic gel test?

The test utilized Doubletap Ammunition, specifically the 275gr Barnes XPB for the .500 S&W Magnum and the 300gr Barnes TSX for the .45-70 Government.

How did the rifle and revolver platforms affect the terminal ballistics of the .500 S&W Magnum and .45-70 Government?

Rifle platforms generally increased velocity for both calibers. The .45-70 Government rifle round maintained better structural integrity and penetration compared to the .500 S&W Magnum rifle round, which fragmented more.

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