How Lethal Are Pocket Pistols ??? (Part 2)

Published on February 9, 2023
Duration: 22:35

This video from Kentucky Ballistics, featuring expert Scott, tests the lethality of various pocket pistols against a realistic ballistic dummy. The tests cover a range of calibers and firearm types, from small derringers to compact revolvers and even a 12-gauge shotgun, providing valuable insights into their real-world effectiveness. Scott's high-energy, expert analysis highlights the performance differences based on caliber and firearm design.

Quick Summary

Expert Scott from Kentucky Ballistics tests pocket pistol lethality against a ballistic dummy, evaluating calibers from .22 LR to 12 Gauge. The AMT Backup (.45 ACP) and COP (.357 Magnum) showed strong penetration, while .22 LR proved insufficient. Rifle calibers and 12-gauge slugs demonstrated extreme effectiveness.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Target Setup
  2. 04:12Pin Gun Test (.22 LR)
  3. 05:06Ducktown Derringers (.22 LR, .45 Colt, .410)
  4. 09:55AMT Backup (.45 ACP)
  5. 10:56COP Pocket Pistol (.357 Magnum)
  6. 11:55Heizer Rifle Caliber Derringers (.223 & 7.62x39)
  7. 14:04Remington Road Warrior (12 Gauge)

Frequently Asked Questions

How effective are .22 LR pocket pistols for self-defense?

.22 LR pocket pistols, like the Pin Gun tested, often lack the necessary penetration to be effective defensive tools. In testing against a ballistic dummy, a .22 LR round failed to penetrate the rib bone, stopping completely, indicating it's not a reliable choice for incapacitating a threat.

What is the performance of .45 ACP pocket pistols in ballistic tests?

.45 ACP pocket pistols, such as the AMT Backup, can be highly effective. When tested with Underwood 230-grain hollow points, the .45 ACP round demonstrated excellent expansion and achieved full penetration through a ballistic dummy torso, showing significant stopping power.

Can .357 Magnum pocket revolvers be effective for self-defense?

.357 Magnum pocket pistols, like the 4-barrel COP model, generally perform well. Tests showed that multiple rounds achieved full penetration through a ballistic dummy, indicating sufficient power and effectiveness for self-defense applications when fired from these compact firearms.

What is the terminal ballistics of .410 shotshells from pocket firearms?

.410 shotshells, particularly buckshot fired from longer-barreled derringers (like the 10-inch Ducktown model), can achieve full penetration through ballistic dummies. However, performance can vary significantly based on the specific load and barrel length used.

More Tactical & Gear Videos You Might Like

More from Kentucky Ballistics

View all →