I Shot a Car Door With My AR-15 and Here's What Happened

Published on October 5, 2023
Duration: 6:26

This guide details an experiment testing the ballistic performance of a car door against various firearms, including an AR-15, AK-47, and Walther PPQ handgun. Conducted by Jason Hanson, a professional firearms instructor, the test reveals that car doors offer concealment, not reliable cover, against rifle rounds and are inconsistent against handgun rounds. The findings emphasize the importance of understanding the difference between cover and concealment in self-defense scenarios.

Quick Summary

Car doors offer concealment, not reliable ballistic cover. Tests show rifle rounds like 7.62x39mm and .223 easily penetrate them, while 9mm handgun rounds may only pass through the first panel. For effective protection, seek substantial cover such as engine blocks, concrete, or thick walls.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Hypothesis
  2. 00:26Firearm Selection
  3. 01:00AK-47 Penetration Test
  4. 02:44AR-15 Penetration Test
  5. 04:169mm Handgun Penetration Test
  6. 06:01Conclusion and Tactical Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a car door provide adequate cover in a self-defense situation?

No, a car door primarily offers concealment, not reliable ballistic cover. Tests show that rifle rounds like 7.62x39mm and .223 can easily penetrate car doors, and even handgun rounds may pass through or fail to stop effectively. Always seek substantial cover like engine blocks or concrete structures.

How do different firearms perform against a car door?

An AK-47 with 7.62x39mm rounds penetrates easily. An AR-15 with .223 rounds shows inconsistent penetration. A 9mm handgun like the Walther PPQ penetrates the first panel but often fails to exit the second, stopping inside the vehicle. Car doors are not reliable shields.

What is the difference between cover and concealment in self-defense?

Cover is anything that can stop or significantly slow down incoming projectiles, providing protection. Concealment merely hides you from view. A car door offers concealment but lacks the structural integrity to be considered effective cover against most firearms.

What should be used for actual cover instead of a car door?

For effective ballistic cover, prioritize solid, substantial objects. Recommended options include the engine block of a vehicle, thick concrete structures, large trees, or sturdy brick walls. These provide a much higher level of protection than a car door.

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