Does a longer barrel improve performance? 9mm carbine 124gr Federal HST gel test

Published on February 19, 2018
Duration: 5:32

This test evaluates the performance of Federal 124gr +P HST ammunition fired from a 16-inch 9mm carbine. In bare gel, the increased velocity caused excessive fragmentation and insufficient penetration (9.6-9.7 inches). However, when fired through four layers of denim simulating clothing, the ammunition performed optimally, achieving proper expansion and penetration (11.8-13.3 inches), meeting defensive standards. The instructor highlights how clothing can alter bullet behavior.

Quick Summary

A 16-inch 9mm carbine barrel increases velocity for Federal 124gr +P HST to 1476.4 FPS, causing excessive fragmentation and insufficient penetration (9.6-9.7") in bare gel. However, when fired through four layers of denim, the ammunition performed optimally, achieving 11.8-13.3" penetration and meeting defensive standards.

Chapters

  1. 00:03Introduction & Test Setup
  2. 00:24Bare Gel Test Firing
  3. 00:58Bare Gel Results & Fragmentation
  4. 01:30Insufficient Penetration for Defense
  5. 01:50Bare Gel Bullet Specs
  6. 02:09Clothed Gel Test Setup
  7. 02:32Clothed Gel Test Firing
  8. 03:03Clothed Gel Results: Good Performance
  9. 03:50Clothed Gel Bullet Specs & Physics
  10. 04:18Call to Action & Channel Support

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a longer barrel improve 9mm carbine performance with Federal HST?

A 16-inch 9mm carbine barrel significantly increases velocity for Federal 124gr +P HST, but this can lead to excessive fragmentation and insufficient penetration in bare gel. Performance improves when fired through clothing, which moderates expansion.

What is the optimal penetration depth for defensive handgun ammunition?

For defensive handgun ammunition, the recommended minimum penetration depth is generally 12 inches to ensure adequate reach to vital organs. This test showed the 9mm carbine failed this in bare gel but met it when clothed.

How does clothing affect bullet performance in ballistic gel tests?

Clothing, like four layers of denim, can act as a barrier that slows down a bullet's expansion process. This moderation prevents over-fragmentation and allows the projectile to achieve better penetration and retained weight, as seen in the clothed gel test.

Why did Federal HST fragment so much from a 9mm carbine?

The increased velocity (average 1476.4 FPS) from the 16-inch 9mm carbine barrel exceeded the optimal velocity range for Federal 124gr +P HST designed for handgun use. This higher energy caused the bullet to expand too rapidly and fragment.

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