Could H&R Be a STAR?...Federal Premium .32 H&R Magnum Hydra Shok Deep Ballistic Gel AMMO Test!

Published on July 12, 2025
Duration: 11:17

This video details a ballistic gel test of Federal Premium .32 H&R Magnum Hydra-Shok Deep ammunition. The test evaluates performance through heavy clothing and a t-shirt only barrier, measuring penetration depth, expansion, and projectile integrity. The presenter, an experienced firearms instructor, expresses initial concerns about the low velocity from a short-barreled revolver but is ultimately surprised by the ammunition's performance.

Quick Summary

Federal Premium .32 H&R Magnum Hydra-Shok Deep 85-grain ammunition averaged 937 ft/s from a 2-inch revolver barrel. In ballistic gel tests, it achieved 14.5 inches of penetration through heavy clothing and 13.75 inches through a t-shirt only, with projectiles expanding up to 0.447 inches, making it a viable self-defense option.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Test Setup
  2. 01:08Ammunition: Federal Premium .32 H&R Magnum Hydra-Shok Deep
  3. 02:34Velocity Test Results
  4. 04:03Ballistic Gel Test: Heavy Clothing
  5. 04:40Ballistic Gel Test: T-Shirt Only
  6. 05:09Gel Test Analysis & Penetration
  7. 06:50Projectile Close-Up & Expansion
  8. 07:38Projectile Measurements & Weight
  9. 09:14Conclusion & Performance Summary
  10. 10:12Carry Considerations & Comparison
  11. 10:39Viewer Feedback & Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Federal Premium .32 H&R Magnum Hydra-Shok Deep perform in ballistic gel tests?

The Federal Premium .32 H&R Magnum Hydra-Shok Deep 85-grain ammunition showed impressive performance, achieving 14.5 inches of penetration through heavy clothing and 13.75 inches through a t-shirt only. It also demonstrated adequate expansion, with projectiles reaching up to 0.447 inches in diameter.

What was the average velocity of the .32 H&R Magnum Hydra-Shok Deep from a short barrel?

From a 2-inch revolver barrel, the Federal Premium .32 H&R Magnum Hydra-Shok Deep 85-grain ammunition achieved a five-round average velocity of 937 ft/s. This was slightly below the advertised 1,025 ft/s, but still yielded good results in ballistic testing.

Is .32 H&R Magnum Hydra-Shok Deep suitable for self-defense?

Yes, the .32 H&R Magnum Hydra-Shok Deep demonstrated effective barrier penetration and expansion in ballistic gel tests, meeting minimum penetration standards. While its energy output is lower than some other calibers like .380 ACP, it remains a viable self-defense option for those carrying .32 H&R Magnum firearms.

How does .32 H&R Magnum Hydra-Shok Deep compare to other self-defense rounds?

Compared to rounds like .380 ACP, the .32 H&R Magnum Hydra-Shok Deep offers good barrier penetration and expansion for its caliber. However, it produces less overall energy (under 200 ft-lbs) and may have lower capacity in firearms, making .380 ACP a potentially preferred choice for some due to higher energy and capacity.

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