My AR-15 Is Longer Than Yours…

Published on February 13, 2023
Duration: 13:11

This video from Kentucky Ballistics features Scott, an established firearms expert, conducting an in-depth comparison between a standard 16-inch barrel AR-15 and a custom 36-inch barrel AR-15. The expert guide details tests for cycling reliability, accuracy at various distances, and crucially, ballistics performance using a chronograph and ballistics gel. The comparison highlights a significant velocity increase with the longer barrel, demonstrating its impact on terminal performance and penetration capabilities.

Quick Summary

Expert Scott from Kentucky Ballistics demonstrates that a 36-inch barrel AR-15 achieves significantly higher muzzle velocity (3,284 fps vs 2,923 fps) compared to a standard 16-inch barrel. This increase enhances terminal ballistics and penetration, while the custom rifle maintained cycling reliability and accuracy at 100 yards despite handling challenges.

Chapters

  1. 00:51Introduction of the 36-inch Barrel AR-15
  2. 01:42Functionality and Cycling Test
  3. 02:22Accuracy Testing
  4. 03:22Ballistics and Velocity Comparison
  5. 06:06Destructive Testing on Various Targets
  6. 10:15Vehicle Penetration Test

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the velocity difference between a 16-inch and a 36-inch barrel AR-15?

A 36-inch barrel AR-15 achieved 3,284 fps with a 55gr round, while a standard 16-inch barrel AR-15 reached 2,923 fps, demonstrating a significant velocity increase with the longer barrel.

How does an extended barrel affect AR-15 accuracy?

While an extended barrel like the 36-inch can increase velocity, it also makes the rifle front-heavy, potentially impacting balance and handling, though accuracy at 100 yards was still demonstrated.

Does a longer AR-15 barrel improve cycling reliability?

In testing, the custom 36-inch barrel AR-15 functioned reliably and cycled properly even during rapid fire with a 20-round magazine, indicating no negative impact on its operational cycling.

What are the terminal performance benefits of a longer AR-15 barrel?

The increased muzzle velocity from a longer barrel, like the 36-inch compared to a 16-inch, enhances terminal ballistics, leading to greater penetration power, as shown in tests through various targets and a truck bed.

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