Is BONDED Really BETTER? Gold Dot vs Nosler!

Published on February 24, 2023
Duration: 10:34

This expert-level analysis from Tools&Targets compares Underwood's 9mm Luger +P+ 124-grain bonded Gold Dot and non-bonded Nosler JHP ammunition through a heavy clothing barrier into ballistic gel. The test, conducted with a Smith & Wesson 9 Shield EZ, reveals the Nosler round achieved superior expansion (0.564-0.573 inches) and adequate penetration (14 inches), while the Gold Dot expanded slightly less (0.529-0.537 inches) but penetrated deeper (18.75 inches). Despite the Gold Dot's bonded construction and deeper penetration, the host surprisingly recommends the Nosler for its more dramatic expansion while still meeting self-defense penetration standards.

Quick Summary

In a ballistic gel test with a heavy clothing barrier, Underwood's 9mm +P+ 124gr non-bonded Nosler JHP demonstrated superior expansion (0.564-0.573 inches) and adequate penetration (14 inches), outperforming the bonded Gold Dot's expansion (0.529-0.537 inches) while still meeting self-defense criteria.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro & Test Setup
  2. 00:28Ammunition & Firearm Selection
  3. 01:57Gold Dot Velocity Test
  4. 02:44Nosler Velocity Test
  5. 03:31Velocity & Energy Comparison
  6. 03:59Ballistic Gel Firing - Gold Dot
  7. 04:41Ballistic Gel Firing - Nosler
  8. 06:15Penetration Measurements
  9. 06:32Wound Channel & Expansion Details
  10. 07:02Recovered Bullet Analysis (Visual)
  11. 07:29Weight Retention & Expansion Measurements
  12. 08:17Final Verdict & Recommendation

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Underwood's 9mm +P+ 124gr Gold Dot and Nosler JHP perform in ballistic gel tests?

The bonded Gold Dot averaged 1239 fps, penetrated 18.75 inches, and expanded to 0.529-0.537 inches. The non-bonded Nosler averaged 1204 fps, penetrated 14 inches, and expanded more significantly to 0.564-0.573 inches, showing superior expansion.

Is bonded ammunition always better than non-bonded for self-defense?

Not necessarily. This test showed the non-bonded Nosler JHP achieved superior expansion compared to the bonded Gold Dot, while still meeting adequate penetration standards for self-defense, suggesting performance can vary by design and manufacturer.

What firearm was used for the 9mm ammunition ballistic gel test?

The ballistic gel test was conducted using a Smith & Wesson M&P 9 Shield EZ pistol, which features a 3.6-inch barrel, chambered in 9mm Luger.

What were the key differences in bullet expansion between the Gold Dot and Nosler rounds?

The Nosler round exhibited more dramatic and immediate expansion, creating a larger wound channel than the Gold Dot. The Gold Dot showed partial expansion, with some clothing fibers fused into its hollow point, potentially limiting its full expansion.

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