Gun Guys – Ep. 07: Ammo Loads for Compacts

This video tests the penetration capabilities of various calibers through stacked drywall sheets. It demonstrates how different bullet types and calibers perform against this common building material, offering a practical, albeit unconventional, look at projectile energy transfer and stopping power.

This video emphasizes the critical importance of reliability and repeatability in duty handguns, featuring insights from firearm instructors Mike Jones (Grand Thumb) and Nate (Trench Grenade). They stress rigorous testing with thousands of rounds, proper ammunition selection, and the need for consistent training, particularly with 9mm handguns which are currently in a 'golden age' of development. The discussion also addresses common caliber debates and the practicalities of parts availability and maintenance.

This video, presented by an experienced instructor, identifies the five worst calibers for budget ammunition stockpiling in 2026: 300 Blackout, 10mm Auto, .45 ACP, 6.5 Creedmoor, and .308 Win/7.62 NATO. It highlights their high cost per round due to limited mass production or material expenses. The instructor recommends more affordable and widely available alternatives like 9mm, .40 S&W, 5.56mm/.223, and 7.62x39mm for budget-conscious individuals.

This video demonstrates a ballistic test comparing the penetration power of various firearms and calibers through a series of candles. The experiment progresses from smaller calibers like .22 LR and 9mm up to powerful rifle rounds like .50 BMG, showcasing how different projectiles interact with and destroy the wax medium. The results highlight the significant differences in terminal ballistics and energy transfer between various firearm platforms.

The speaker, identified as an experienced firearms instructor, advises against using '+P+' ammunition due to potential risks to firearm longevity and shootability. Instead, they recommend selecting appropriate calibers like .40 S&W, 10mm, or .357 Magnum, which may negate the need for hotter loads. For calibers like 9mm, the speaker suggests that '+P+' or even more powerful loads might be necessary to achieve desired performance.

This video from God Family and Guns identifies the five most expensive and least budget-friendly calibers to stockpile: .300 Blackout, 10mm Auto, .45 ACP, 6.5 Creedmoor, and .308 Winchester/7.62 NATO. The instructor, demonstrating significant expertise in ammunition markets and firearm applications, provides cost estimates and offers more affordable, mass-produced alternatives for each. The advice is geared towards individuals looking to build an ammunition reserve on a budget, emphasizing value and availability.

This guide details the dangers of 'thumbing the hammer down' on a loaded firearm, a technique strongly advised against by experts. It emphasizes that this action, which involves pulling the trigger while manually lowering the hammer, carries a high risk of accidental discharge if the thumb slips. The expert instruction highlights safer alternatives like engaging the manual safety for 'cocked and locked' carry or clearing the chamber entirely.

This guide details the advanced technique of hand stippling a 1911 firearm frame for enhanced grip, as demonstrated by a master gunsmith. It covers the precise application of texture using a punch and hammer, followed by meticulous filing to refine the edges. This process requires significant skill and attention to detail for a professional finish.

This guide details the proper technique for cycling the slide on a semi-automatic pistol, specifically the 1911, as explained by Ken Hackathorn. It emphasizes avoiding "gun abuse" by not slamming the slide on an empty chamber, which can cause premature wear. The explanation includes the mechanical reasons behind this, focusing on how the cartridge rim stabilizes the extractor and cushions the slide's action.

Massad Ayoob, a renowned firearms instructor and legal expert, details the critical post-Defensive Gun Use (DGU) protocol. He emphasizes that the most common mistake is failing to immediately call 911 after a DGU, even if no shots were fired. This action is crucial for establishing oneself as the victim complainant in the ensuing legal aftermath.