5.56 NATO vs 7.62x39: Unexpected Results - UBT

Published on November 16, 2023
Duration: 9:32

This guide details the Ultimate Barrier Testing (UBT) methodology used by Banana Ballistics to compare 5.56 NATO and 7.62x39mm calibers. The testing involves evaluating penetration through lumber, sand, concrete, and steel, with objective measurements of velocity, energy, and impact depth. The results provide data-driven insights into the practical performance differences between these popular rifle cartridges.

Quick Summary

The Banana Ballistics Ultimate Barrier Test (UBT) compared 5.56 NATO and 7.62x39mm across multiple barriers. While both performed similarly on lumber, sand, and concrete, the 5.56 NATO's higher velocity resulted in significantly deeper penetration on 3/8 inch steel, making it the overall winner.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Ultimate Barrier Testing (UBT)
  2. 00:33Objective 1: Velocity and Energy Measurement
  3. 00:57Round 1: Lumber Barrier Test
  4. 03:02Round 2: Sand Barrier Test
  5. 04:49Round 3: Concrete Barrier Test
  6. 06:31Round 4: Steel Barrier Test
  7. 09:18Final Results and Winner Declaration

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the key findings of the Banana Ballistics Ultimate Barrier Test (UBT) comparing 5.56 NATO and 7.62x39mm?

The UBT found that while both calibers performed similarly on lumber, sand, and concrete, 5.56 NATO demonstrated superior penetration on 3/8 inch steel due to its higher velocity, ultimately winning the test session.

How did the velocity and energy of 5.56 NATO and 7.62x39mm compare in the UBT?

The 5.56x45mm NATO (55gr FMJ) averaged 3008 fps with 1105 ft/lbs of energy, whereas the 7.62x39mm (122gr FMJ) averaged 2344 fps with 1489 ft/lbs of energy, showing a significant velocity advantage for the 5.56 NATO.

What were the results of the steel barrier test in the UBT?

Both 5.56 NATO and 7.62x39mm easily penetrated 1/4 inch steel. On 3/8 inch steel, the 5.56 NATO created a deeper crater (0.340") compared to the 7.62x39mm (0.192"), indicating better penetration performance for the higher-velocity round.

Which caliber won the Banana Ballistics Ultimate Barrier Test (UBT)?

The 5.56 NATO caliber was declared the winner of the UBT session. This was primarily due to its superior performance in the steel barrier test, which contributed to its higher overall score against the 7.62x39mm.

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