500 Auto Max vs Ballistic Gel

Published on May 24, 2018
Duration: 10:04

This guide details the process of conducting ballistic gel tests, as demonstrated by Scott from Kentucky Ballistics. It covers setting up the gel, chronograhping rounds, firing into the gel, and meticulously measuring penetration, weight retention, and expansion of recovered projectiles. The expert-level demonstration emphasizes data-driven analysis of terminal ballistics for the .500 Auto Max cartridge.

Quick Summary

The .500 Auto Max cartridge, tested in an AR-500 rifle, demonstrated impressive terminal ballistics in 10% ballistic gel. Loads ranged from 1585 to 2345 fps, achieving deep penetration and significant expansion. Equipment like chronographs and calipers were used for precise data collection on velocity, weight retention, and wound cavity size.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Shooting Montage
  2. 00:56Caliber Comparison: .500 Auto Max vs .500 S&W Magnum
  3. 01:40Ammunition Overview and Chronograph Results
  4. 02:30Ballistic Gel Test: Barnes 275gr HP
  5. 03:35Ballistic Gel Test: Buffalo Bore 400gr Flat Point
  6. 04:56Ballistic Gel Test: 500gr Flat Point
  7. 05:54Ballistic Gel Test: 350gr XTP HP
  8. 07:17Post-Test Analysis and Measurements

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the .500 Auto Max cartridge and how does it perform in ballistic gel?

The .500 Auto Max is a rimless cartridge designed for AR-style platforms. In ballistic gel tests, it demonstrated significant terminal ballistics, with various loads showing deep penetration, substantial temporary wound cavities, and notable projectile expansion, especially from heavier bullets.

What equipment is needed for ballistic gel testing as shown in the video?

Essential equipment includes Clear Ballistics 10% gel blocks, a chronograph (like the ProChrono Digital) for velocity, a measuring tape for penetration, a scale (like a Lyman digital scale) for weight retention, and digital calipers for measuring projectile expansion.

How does the .500 Auto Max compare to the .500 S&W Magnum?

The .500 Auto Max is a rimless version of the .500 S&W Magnum, specifically adapted for reliable feeding in AR-style semi-automatic rifles. This platform allows for higher capacity magazines and potentially longer barrels, enhancing ballistic performance.

What types of ammunition were tested for the .500 Auto Max?

The video tested several loads including Barnes 275gr HP (XPB), Hornady 350gr XTP HP, Buffalo Bore 400gr Flat Point, and Buffalo Bore 500gr Flat Point, providing a range of weights and designs for terminal ballistics analysis.

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