How Lethal Are Pocket Pistols ??? (Part 1)

Published on October 13, 2022
Duration: 16:02

This video from Kentucky Ballistics features an expert-level lethality test of various pocket pistols and small firearms against a ballistic dummy. The instructor, Scott, demonstrates the effectiveness of calibers ranging from .22 Short to .500 Magnum, highlighting significant differences in penetration and terminal ballistics. The tests provide valuable data for understanding the real-world stopping power of these compact firearms, with clear visual evidence of projectile performance.

Quick Summary

Expert ballistician Scott from Kentucky Ballistics conducted a comprehensive lethality test on various pocket pistols and small firearms. Using a ballistic dummy, he demonstrated the performance of calibers from .22 Short to .500 Magnum, highlighting significant differences in penetration and terminal ballistics, offering valuable insights into the real-world effectiveness of these compact firearms.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Skit
  2. 02:07.22 Short Ballistics Test
  3. 03:45.22 Long Rifle Ballistics Test
  4. 04:49.22 Magnum Ballistics Test
  5. 07:12.25 ACP Ballistics Test
  6. 08:19.32 ACP Ballistics Test
  7. 09:05.380 ACP Ballistics Test
  8. 10:31.410 Shotgun Shell Test
  9. 11:50.45-70 Derringer Test
  10. 13:46.500 Magnum 'Pocket Pistol' Test

Frequently Asked Questions

How lethal are pocket pistols like the Ruger LCP Max?

The Ruger LCP Max in .380 ACP, when paired with Underwood Extreme Defender ammunition, demonstrated significant effectiveness in ballistic tests, breaking a rib, penetrating the torso, and exiting the shoulder blade, indicating substantial stopping power for its size.

What is the difference in performance between .22 Magnum and .22 Short rounds?

In ballistic tests, the .22 Magnum round showed markedly superior penetration compared to the .22 Short. While the .22 Short barely entered the torso and stopped on the ribs, the .22 Magnum successfully penetrated through the entire torso of the ballistic dummy.

Can a .410 shotgun shell be effective from a small firearm?

Yes, a .410 shotgun shell fired from a Cobray double-barrel shotgun caused significant internal damage to the ballistic dummy, with pellets lodging deep within the torso, demonstrating considerable destructive potential.

Which calibers performed best in the pocket pistol lethality test?

The most effective calibers tested for lethality were the .45-70 Government and the .500 Magnum, which caused catastrophic damage to the ballistic dummy. The .380 ACP with specialized ammo and the .22 Magnum also showed notable effectiveness.

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