How strong are cockpit windshields from a Boeing 737 airplane - heavy sniper rifle

Published on July 16, 2018
Duration: 13:27

This video demonstrates the ballistic resistance of Boeing 737 cockpit windshields against various high-powered firearms and calibers, including .50 BMG, 9mm, .458 SOCOM, .308, 5.7x28mm, and .44 Magnum. The tests, conducted by Edwin Sarkissian, show the impressive durability of the aviation-grade glass, with most rounds being stopped or significantly impeded. The experiment highlights the structural integrity of the windshields, even when subjected to powerful rifle rounds.

Quick Summary

Boeing 737 cockpit windshields are approximately 1 to 1.5 inches thick and are designed to withstand bird strikes. Tests show they offer significant ballistic resistance, stopping rounds like .308, .458 SOCOM, and even .50 BMG on intact layers, though pre-existing damage can compromise their integrity.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Material Overview
  2. 02:12.50 BMG Ballistic Test
  3. 05:209mm and .458 SOCOM Tests
  4. 07:21.308 and Secondary .50 BMG Test
  5. 10:485.7x28mm and .44 Magnum Tests

Frequently Asked Questions

How thick are Boeing 737 cockpit windshields?

Boeing 737 cockpit windshields are approximately 1 to 1.5 inches thick. They are designed with multiple layers to withstand significant impacts, such as bird strikes during flight, ensuring pilot safety and aircraft integrity.

What firearms were used to test the Boeing 737 windshield?

The Boeing 737 windshield was tested using a variety of firearms, including a Serbu BFG-50A firing .50 BMG rounds, a CMMG rifle firing .458 SOCOM and .308 rounds, an FN Five-seven firing 5.7x28mm, and a Desert Eagle firing .44 Magnum rounds. 9mm rounds were also tested.

Can a .50 BMG round penetrate a Boeing 737 cockpit windshield?

In initial tests, a .50 BMG round from a Serbu BFG-50A penetrated the first two layers of a Boeing 737 cockpit windshield but was stopped by the third. However, on a windshield already compromised by previous impacts, a .50 BMG round penetrated all three layers.

Are Boeing 737 windshields designed to stop rifle rounds?

While not their primary design purpose, Boeing 737 windshields are exceptionally strong, designed to withstand bird strikes. Tests show they can stop or significantly impede various rifle calibers like .308 and .458 SOCOM, and even .50 BMG on intact layers, demonstrating remarkable ballistic resistance.

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