Can a Shovel Stop a Bullet?

This video from Yee Yee Life features a 100-pound Paradigm Pro Elite kettlebell subjected to a series of ballistic tests, starting with small handgun calibers and escalating to a .50 BMG sniper round. The experiment, led by a high-authority firearms influencer, demonstrates the progressive damage inflicted on the kettlebell, culminating in a significant crack and flash from the .50 BMG impact, indicating it barely stopped the round. The testing highlights the destructive power of larger calibers against dense materials.

This video from Yee Yee Life features an experienced individual testing the bullet-stopping capabilities of a 100-pound lead block against various calibers, from .22LR up to .50 BMG. The test includes firearms like Glocks, Rugers, Desert Eagles, AR-15s, FN SCARs, and Barrett rifles, demonstrating penetration levels and the effectiveness of lead as a ballistic material. The results show that while lead blocks can stop many common rounds, high-powered calibers like the .50 BMG can penetrate significantly.

This video tests the bullet resistance of a sledgehammer against various calibers, from .22 LR to .50 BMG. The sledgehammer demonstrates significant resistance, with no caliber achieving a complete pass-through. Notably, even larger calibers like 7.62x39mm and 5.56x45mm NATO caused significant denting and bullet fragmentation, while the .50 BMG created a substantial divot. The experiment concludes that a sledgehammer is effectively bulletproof against the tested rounds.

This video from Kentucky Ballistics features an expert-level penetration test comparing the 9mm and 10mm calibers. Using a Glock 19 with 124gr FMJ and a Glock 20 with 180gr FMJ, the test demonstrates that the 10mm caliber penetrates more wooden boards than the 9mm. The host, Scott, provides clear visuals and direct comparisons, showcasing safe firearm handling and structured testing methodology.

Ted from Line 45 discusses the evolving landscape of handgun calibers, highlighting how shooters are increasingly looking beyond 9mm for specific needs. The video explores 30 Super Carry for increased capacity in compacts, 5.7x28mm for flat trajectory and speed, 10mm for significant stopping power, 357 SIG for barrier penetration, and 22 TCM for rifle-like velocity in a pistol platform. The discussion emphasizes that while 9mm remains a standard, newer calibers offer solutions for specialized applications.

This video provides an expert-level analysis of the .45 ACP cartridge's effectiveness, comparing it to 9mm. It delves into the historical context of its design by John Browning, its ballistics, and its performance in modern contexts. The analysis debunks myths like 'knockdown power' and emphasizes that shot placement, penetration, and expansion are key factors, with modern ammunition narrowing the performance gap between calibers. The video concludes that .45 ACP remains a viable and effective cartridge, especially for suppressed use, but stresses that shooter skill and training are paramount.

This video demonstrates the ballistic resistance of an excavator bucket against various firearm calibers, from .22 LR to .50 BMG API. The test, conducted by an experienced individual, shows that while smaller calibers cause minimal damage, larger rounds like the .50 BMG API can penetrate the bucket. The footage provides visual evidence of impact effects and the destructive potential of different ammunition types.

This video tests the penetration capabilities of various calibers against a large pine tree, culminating with a .50 BMG API round. Surprisingly, even powerful rifle rounds like 5.56mm and 7.62mm, as well as handgun rounds like 10mm and .44 Magnum, failed to fully penetrate the tree. The .50 BMG API round, while charring the entry point, also did not exit the back of the tree, demonstrating the significant stopping power of a substantial tree trunk.

This video from Yee Yee Life features an experienced host testing the ballistic penetration of various calibers, from .22 LR to .50 BMG, in an Intex swimming pool. The host demonstrates proper firearm safety and provides detailed measurements of bullet penetration depths, offering unique insights into how different rounds interact with water as a medium. The results highlight significant variations in penetration based on caliber and velocity.

This video tests the ballistic resistance of a Secret Service Suburban window against various calibers, from .22 LR to .50 BMG. While smaller calibers and even a 10mm and .44 Magnum were stopped with varying degrees of damage, the window was eventually penetrated by a .50 BMG sniper rifle round. The testing provides a clear demonstration of the limits of armored vehicle glass against high-powered rifle threats.