Chain Shot

Published on February 4, 2026
Duration: 1:21

This video demonstrates a ballistic gel test of 'chain shot' ammunition, an adaptation of historical pirate cannon shot, loaded into modern shotgun shells. The test evaluates the penetration of fine, medium, and thick chain shot. The instructor, exhibiting experienced authority, concludes that chain shot is impractical and potentially dangerous for modern use, best left to historical reenactments.

Quick Summary

A ballistic gel test evaluated chain shot ammunition loaded into modern shotgun shells. Fine chain shot penetrated 1 inch, medium chain shot penetrated 4 inches, while thick chain shot failed to penetrate and ricocheted, deeming it impractical for modern use.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Chain Shot
  2. 00:07Chain Types Introduced
  3. 00:12Fine Chain Test
  4. 00:20Fine Chain Results
  5. 00:37Medium Chain Test
  6. 00:41Medium Chain Results
  7. 00:51Thick Chain Test
  8. 00:59Thick Chain Results & Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is chain shot and how was it tested?

Chain shot is a historical projectile adapted for modern shotgun shells. This test involved firing fine, medium, and thick chain shot into ballistic gel at an outdoor range to measure penetration and observe effects.

What were the penetration results for the different types of chain shot?

Fine chain shot penetrated about 1 inch, medium chain shot penetrated about 4 inches, and thick chain shot failed to penetrate the ballistic gel, ricocheting instead.

Is chain shot practical for modern firearms?

Based on this ballistic gel test, chain shot is considered impractical and potentially dangerous for modern use due to unpredictable performance, especially the thick variant which ricocheted.

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