9MM vs 45 ACP (Penetration Test)

Published on September 9, 2025
Duration: 0:51

This video from Kentucky Ballistics features Scott, an instructor with high authority, conducting a penetration test comparing 9mm and .45 ACP calibers. The test utilizes a Glock 19 with 124-grain FMJ and a Sig 1911 with 230-grain FMJ, demonstrating their penetration depth through wooden boards.

Quick Summary

In a penetration test by Kentucky Ballistics, a 9mm 124-grain FMJ round from a Glock 19 penetrated 9 wooden boards. A .45 ACP 230-grain FMJ round from a Sig 1911 penetrated 6 boards, indicating greater penetration depth for the 9mm in this specific test scenario.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Setup
  2. 00:069mm Test Preparation
  3. 00:159mm Penetration Results
  4. 00:22.45 ACP Test Preparation
  5. 00:34.45 ACP Penetration Results
  6. 00:43Final Comparison & Viewer Engagement

Frequently Asked Questions

Which caliber penetrates deeper, 9mm or .45 ACP?

In this specific test by Kentucky Ballistics, the 9mm 124-grain FMJ round penetrated 9 wooden boards, while the .45 ACP 230-grain FMJ round penetrated 6 boards. This suggests the 9mm had greater penetration depth in this scenario.

What ammunition was used in the 9mm vs .45 ACP penetration test?

The 9mm test used a Glock 19 with 124-grain Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) ammunition. The .45 ACP test utilized a Sig 1911 with 230-grain Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) ammunition.

What firearms were used for the penetration test?

The penetration test featured a Glock 19 for the 9mm caliber and a Sig 1911 for the .45 ACP caliber. Both firearms were used at an outdoor range for the comparison.

What were the results of the 9mm vs .45 ACP penetration test?

The 9mm round, fired from a Glock 19 with 124gr FMJ, penetrated 9 boards. The .45 ACP round, fired from a Sig 1911 with 230gr FMJ, penetrated 6 boards. The 9mm demonstrated greater penetration in this test.

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