Can A 20 Grain Bullet Go Boom?

Published on November 13, 2025
Duration: 1:00

This guide details an experiment testing the effectiveness of 20-grain, 590 FPS Aguila Super Colibri .22LR subsonic ammunition against a Firebird M50 reactive target. The experiment, conducted by Civilian Tactical Host, demonstrates that while subsonic rounds may penetrate, full-power .22LR is generally required to detonate such targets. The host, an experienced shooter, highlights safe firearm handling and knowledge of specialized ammunition.

Quick Summary

The Aguila Super Colibri .22LR, featuring a 20-grain bullet at 590 FPS, is generally too low-powered to detonate explosive reactive targets like the Firebird M50. These targets typically require the higher energy impact of full-power .22LR or rifle ammunition to ignite their explosive filler, as demonstrated in tests using a suppressed Bersa Thunder .22 handgun.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Targets & Subsonic Ammo
  2. 00:15Aguila Super Colibri Specs & Expectations
  3. 00:27Test 1: Subsonic vs. Reactive Target
  4. 00:41Test 2: Full Power .22LR vs. Target

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the specifications of the Aguila Super Colibri .22LR ammunition tested?

The Aguila Super Colibri .22LR ammunition features a 20-grain bullet with a stated velocity of 590 feet per second (FPS). It is known for being extremely quiet, even without a suppressor.

Can a 20-grain subsonic bullet detonate an explosive reactive target?

Typically, a 20-grain subsonic bullet like the Aguila Super Colibri lacks the velocity and energy required to detonate an explosive reactive target. These targets usually require higher-energy impacts, often from rifle ammunition.

What firearm was used to test full-power .22LR ammunition?

A suppressed Bersa Thunder .22 handgun was used to test full-power .22LR ammunition against the Firebird M50 reactive target after the subsonic rounds failed to detonate it.

What is the purpose of subsonic ammunition like the Aguila Super Colibri?

Subsonic ammunition is designed for reduced noise and recoil, making it ideal for use with suppressors in environments where noise reduction is a priority, such as training or pest control.

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