Fisticuffs!...9MM vs .40S&W Federal Punch Self-Defense AMMO Ballistic Gel Test!

Published on September 6, 2024
Duration: 13:34

This video details a ballistic gel test comparing Federal Punch 9mm and .40 S&W self-defense ammunition. The instructor conducts velocity tests using a Lab Radar and then fires rounds through a clothing barrier into ballistic gel. The results provide data on penetration, expansion, and recovered projectile weight, offering insights into the real-world performance of these ammunition types from short-barreled handguns.

Quick Summary

In ballistic gel tests, Federal Punch 9mm (124gr) from a 3.1-inch barrel averaged 1,074 FPS, penetrating 17.25 inches with a 0.681-inch expanded diameter. The .40 S&W (165gr) from a ~3.5-inch barrel averaged 1,093 FPS, penetrating 19.75 inches with a 0.635-inch expanded diameter. Both retained full weight.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Setup
  2. 00:47Ammunition Overview: Federal Punch 9mm & .40 S&W
  3. 01:32Cartridge Comparison
  4. 02:02Firearm Selection: Short Barrels
  5. 02:32Test Firearms: Canik MC9 & Glock 27
  6. 02:55Velocity Testing: 9mm Federal Punch
  7. 04:30Velocity Testing: .40 S&W Federal Punch
  8. 05:59Ballistic Gel Test: Firing the Rounds
  9. 06:35Gel Test Results: Initial Observations
  10. 07:05Gel Test Analysis: Penetration & Disruption
  11. 08:37Penetration Depth: 9mm vs .40 S&W
  12. 09:30Recovered Projectile Analysis
  13. 10:30Projectile Weight & Expansion Measurements
  14. 11:18Conclusion: Federal Punch Performance
  15. 11:409mm vs .40 S&W: Caliber Comparison Insights
  16. 12:31Final Verdict: Both Calibers are Winners
  17. 13:11Support the Channel & Outro

Frequently Asked Questions

How did the Federal Punch 9mm and .40 S&W perform in ballistic gel tests?

The 9mm Federal Punch (124gr) from a 3.1-inch barrel averaged 1,074 FPS and achieved 17.25 inches of penetration with significant expansion. The .40 S&W (165gr) from a ~3.5-inch barrel averaged 1,093 FPS, penetrating 19.75 inches with good expansion, though the 9mm achieved a wider final diameter.

What were the measured velocities for Federal Punch 9mm and .40 S&W from short barrels?

From a 3.1-inch barrel, the 9mm Federal Punch averaged 1,074 FPS. From a ~3.5-inch barrel, the .40 S&W Federal Punch averaged 1,093 FPS. Both were lower than the manufacturer's claimed velocities from a 4-inch barrel.

Did Federal Punch ammunition retain its weight after ballistic gel testing?

Yes, both the Federal Punch 9mm and .40 S&W projectiles retained their full weight after passing through the ballistic gel. This indicates robust construction and effective expansion without significant fragmentation.

Which Federal Punch caliber, 9mm or .40 S&W, expanded more in the gel test?

Interestingly, the 9mm Federal Punch projectile achieved a larger final expanded diameter (0.681 inches) compared to the .40 S&W Federal Punch (0.635 inches), despite the .40 S&W having higher velocity and energy.

What is the significance of Federal dropping nickel plating on Punch ammunition?

The removal of nickel plating from Federal Punch ammunition suggests it is no longer positioned as a premium product line by the manufacturer. This change may reflect a shift in product strategy or cost-saving measures.

More Tactical & Gear Videos You Might Like

More from Tools&Targets

View all →