Expansion Not Required...Underwood Xtreme Defender 9MM +P+ Self-Defense Ammo Ballistic Gel Test!

Published on February 21, 2025
Duration: 13:47

This video details a ballistic gel test of Underwood Ammo's 9mm +P+ Extreme Defender Platinum Edition ammunition. The test evaluates velocity and penetration through a heavy clothing barrier using two different firearm barrel lengths. The instructor provides insights into the performance characteristics of solid copper fluted projectiles, comparing them to traditional expanding rounds.

Quick Summary

Underwood Ammo's 9mm +P+ Extreme Defender is a 90-grain solid copper fluted projectile that does not expand but provides deep penetration. Testing showed velocities averaging 1466 ft/s from a 3.1" barrel and 1569 ft/s from a 4.5" barrel, with consistent penetration of around 17 inches in ballistic gel through a heavy clothing barrier.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Cold Weather Range Setup
  2. 00:21Test Plan: Underwood 9mm Extreme Defender
  3. 00:48Clothing Barrier Setup
  4. 00:56Underwood 9mm +P+ Extreme Defender Specs
  5. 01:13Cartridge & Projectile Overview
  6. 01:34Platinum Edition Features
  7. 01:51Instructor's Preference: Solid Copper vs. Expanding
  8. 02:32Test Barrels: Canik MC9 & Glock 17
  9. 02:55Velocity Test: Canik MC9 (3.1" Barrel)
  10. 03:56MC9 Velocity Average & Energy Calculation
  11. 04:27Resetting for Glock 17 Test
  12. 04:31Velocity Test: Glock 17 (4.5" Barrel)
  13. 05:08Glock 17 Velocity Average & Energy Calculation
  14. 05:30Velocity Comparison: MC9 vs. G17
  15. 06:05Ballistic Gel Test: MC9 Shot
  16. 06:42Ballistic Gel Test: G17 Shot
  17. 07:08Gel Test Results: MC9 & G17 Penetration
  18. 07:17Gel Test Analysis: Disruption & Tumble
  19. 08:45Final Penetration Measurements
  20. 09:01Side-by-Side Gel Block Comparison
  21. 09:29Projectile Examination: Weight & Dimensions
  22. 09:31Projectile Condition: No Expansion or Deformation
  23. 09:47Projectile Rifling Marks Comparison
  24. 10:14Projectile Weight Data
  25. 10:29Projectile Size Data
  26. 10:43Overall Performance Summary
  27. 11:06Instructor's Personal Ammunition Preference
  28. 11:40Conclusion: Extreme Defenders Performance
  29. 12:10Ideal Use Cases for Solid Copper Fluted Rounds
  30. 13:06Viewer Engagement & Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key performance characteristics of Underwood's 9mm +P+ Extreme Defender Platinum Edition ammunition?

The Underwood 9mm +P+ Extreme Defender is a 90-grain solid copper fluted projectile. It does not expand but offers deep penetration and significant disruption. Testing showed velocities around 1466 ft/s from a 3.1-inch barrel and 1569 ft/s from a 4.5-inch barrel, with penetration consistently around 17 inches in ballistic gel through clothing.

How does barrel length affect the velocity of Underwood's 9mm Extreme Defender ammunition?

Barrel length significantly impacts the velocity of the Underwood 9mm Extreme Defender. A shorter 3.1-inch barrel yielded an average of 1466 ft/s, while a longer 4.5-inch barrel achieved an average of 1569 ft/s, demonstrating over a 100 ft/s increase with the additional barrel length.

Does the Underwood 9mm Extreme Defender expand upon impact in ballistic gel?

No, the Underwood 9mm Extreme Defender is a solid copper fluted projectile designed not to expand. Ballistic gel tests confirmed no expansion or significant deformation, with the projectile maintaining its original weight and dimensions after passing through the gel block.

What is the instructor's personal preference for 9mm self-defense ammunition compared to solid copper rounds?

The instructor personally prefers heavier, expanding lead projectiles for 9mm self-defense when reliable expansion is achievable. While acknowledging the consistent performance of solid copper fluted rounds like the Extreme Defender, they are seen as a better fit for 'problem calibers' where expansion is difficult.

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