BEST Bear Defense Caliber? 10mm vs .357 vs .44 vs 12GA

Published on February 27, 2026
Duration: 11:09

This video conducts a penetration test comparing 10mm, .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, and 12 Gauge for bear defense scenarios. It includes velocity testing with a chronograph and tests against paper blocks and a Level IV ceramic armor plate. While some rounds penetrated paper, the Level IV plate remained largely intact, with minor cosmetic damage after multiple impacts, including a concentrated 10mm assault.

Quick Summary

The Mr. Madness video tested 10mm, .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, and 12 Gauge for bear defense. A Level IV armor plate was shot with these calibers, showing dents but no penetration. The .44 Magnum with hardcast bullets demonstrated superior penetration through paper targets.

Chapters

  1. 00:25Caliber Penetration Test Setup
  2. 02:28Alternative Defense & Target Setup
  3. 03:40Velocity Testing Results
  4. 05:57Paper Target Penetration Results
  5. 06:38Level IV Armor Plate Testing
  6. 08:43Final Armor Plate Assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

What calibers were tested for bear defense in the Mr. Madness video?

The video tested 10mm, .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, and 12 Gauge for bear defense. Specific firearms included a Glock 20 (10mm), Smith & Wesson Model 66 (.357 Magnum), Smith & Wesson 329 PD (.44 Magnum), and a Mossberg 88 Maverick (12 Gauge).

How did the tested calibers perform against a Level IV armor plate?

A Level IV ceramic armor plate from RTS Tactical remained intact after being shot with 10mm, .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, and 12-gauge slugs. While there were dents and minor penetration spots from concentrated 10mm fire, the plate was not compromised.

What were the muzzle velocities recorded during the bear defense caliber test?

The Glock 20 (10mm) with 200gr ammo clocked 1069 fps. The S&W Model 66 (.357 Magnum) with 200gr hardcast hit 1112.3 fps. The S&W 329 PD (.44 Magnum) with 240gr hardcast achieved 1173.1 fps.

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