Are Longer Barrel's Really More LETHAL???

Published on June 6, 2024
Duration: 17:01

This video explores the impact of barrel length on bullet performance in self-defense scenarios. Through ballistic testing using a torso dummy, the presenter compares velocities and terminal effects of different barrel lengths with various ammunition types. The findings suggest that while barrel length influences velocity, shot placement and bullet construction are more critical factors in achieving effective results and preventing over-penetration.

Quick Summary

Ballistic testing indicates that while longer gun barrels increase bullet velocity, they do not definitively make a handgun more lethal. Factors like shot placement and bullet construction are more critical for effective self-defense. Increased velocity from longer barrels can sometimes lead to unpredictable results such as over-penetration or bullet fragmentation.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Barrel Length & Lethality
  2. 00:51Chronographing Firearms: Velocity Testing
  3. 01:37Sig P365 XL Velocity Results
  4. 01:37LFA Apollo 11 Velocity Results
  5. 02:21Glock 19 (16-inch Barrel) Velocity Results
  6. 03:30Ballistic Torso Test Setup
  7. 04:05Sig P365 XL Test: Federal HST
  8. 05:4716-inch Glock 19 Test: Federal HST
  9. 07:1616-inch Glock 19 Re-test: Federal HST
  10. 08:43LFA Apollo 11 Test: Federal HST
  11. 11:14Hornady Critical Defense Test: Glock 19
  12. 12:10Hornady Critical Defense Test: Sig P365
  13. 13:09Hornady Critical Defense Test: LFA Apollo 11
  14. 14:30Norma Monolithic Hollow Point Test: Glock 19
  15. 15:12Norma Monolithic Hollow Point Test: Sig P365
  16. 16:03Conclusion: Barrel Length vs. Shot Placement

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a longer gun barrel make a handgun more lethal?

While longer barrels increase bullet velocity, ballistic testing suggests that shot placement and bullet construction are more critical for lethality in self-defense scenarios. The increased velocity from longer barrels doesn't always guarantee better performance and can sometimes lead to unpredictable results like over-penetration or bullet fragmentation.

What is the velocity difference between short and long pistol barrels?

Testing showed significant velocity gains with longer barrels. A Sig P365 XL (approx. 3.1-inch barrel) averaged around 1095 fps, a full-size 9mm pistol averaged 1130-1140 fps, while a Glock 19 with a 16-inch barrel reached up to 1298 fps, demonstrating over a 100 fps increase.

How does barrel length affect bullet penetration in self-defense?

Barrel length impacts velocity, which can influence penetration. However, ballistic tests revealed that sometimes longer barrels led to over-penetration, while shorter barrels with the same ammunition stopped within the target. This highlights that bullet design and target interaction are key factors, not just barrel length.

What ammunition performed best in ballistic torso tests?

Federal HST 124-grain +P ammunition showed effective performance, stopping within the torso from a shorter barrel and demonstrating good expansion. Hornady Critical Defense and Norma Monolithic Hollow Point also performed, but results varied, emphasizing the importance of specific bullet design for intended performance.

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