Chain Shot: Extremely Painful…

Published on August 10, 2025
Duration: 6:50

This video from Civilian Tactical explores the effectiveness of chain shot, a historical pirate projectile, adapted into modern shotgun shells. The expert instructor details the historical context, tests three chain types (fine, medium, thick) for accuracy, impact on pineapples, water, and ballistics gelatin. The findings suggest chain shot is not a practical or deadly modern ammunition, best left to historical reenactments.

Quick Summary

Modern chain shot shotgun shells, tested by Civilian Tactical, show limited effectiveness. While accurate on paper, penetration in ballistics gel was poor for fine and thick chains, with medium chain showing more promise but still not a viable tactical round compared to standard ammunition.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Chain Shot
  2. 00:13Testing Objectives
  3. 00:27Chain Types for Testing
  4. 00:33Historical Chain Shot Use
  5. 00:57Accuracy Test Setup
  6. 01:07Loading Shotgun Shells
  7. 01:17Accuracy Test Firing
  8. 01:30Accuracy Test Results
  9. 01:53Pineapple Impact Test Introduction
  10. 02:05Fine Chain Pineapple Test
  11. 02:20Medium Chain Pineapple Test
  12. 02:49Thick Chain Pineapple Test
  13. 03:13Water Bucket Impact Test
  14. 03:27Thick Chain Water Bucket Test
  15. 03:52Sponsor Segment
  16. 04:40Ballistics Gel Test Introduction
  17. 04:44Fine Chain Ballistics Gel Test
  18. 05:19Medium Chain Ballistics Gel Test
  19. 05:44Thick Chain Ballistics Gel Test
  20. 06:12Safety and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is chain shot and how was it historically used?

Chain shot is a type of ammunition consisting of two or more projectiles linked by a chain. Historically, pirates used it in cannons to destroy enemy ship rigging and sails, rendering vessels inoperable rather than sinking them.

How effective is modern chain shot in shotgun shells?

Testing by Civilian Tactical suggests modern chain shot is not highly effective. While accurate on paper, penetration in ballistics gel was limited, with medium chain showing the most promise but still not comparable to standard ammunition.

What are the different types of chain shot tested in the video?

The video tests three types of chain shot: fine chain, medium chain, and thick chain. Each type was loaded into shotgun shells and subjected to various tests including accuracy, impact, and ballistics gel penetration.

Are there any safety concerns with chain shot ammunition?

Yes, attempting to create or fire chain shot ammunition without professional expertise is extremely dangerous. The video emphasizes that this is not a DIY project and highlights the unpredictable nature and potential hazards of such projectiles.

More Tactical & Gear Videos You Might Like

More from Civilian Tactical

View all →