Shooting A Solid Block Of Sapphire - One Of The HARDEST Minerals In THE WORLD!!!

Published on October 4, 2022
Duration: 24:10

This guide details a series of ballistic tests conducted on a synthetic sapphire block, one of the hardest known minerals. Starting with smaller calibers like .22 LR and 9mm, the tests escalate to high-powered rifle rounds including 5.56 NATO, .308 Win, and finally .50 BMG. The results demonstrate the extreme durability of sapphire, showing how it withstands impacts from smaller rounds but eventually fractures and shatters under the force of larger, high-velocity projectiles. The testing highlights the material's ability to absorb significant energy, even when shattered.

Quick Summary

The video tests the durability of a synthetic sapphire block (Mohs hardness 9) against various firearms. While .22 LR and 9mm rounds caused only minor scuffing, 5.56 NATO initiated internal cracking. A .308 Win round split the block in half, and a .50 BMG round ultimately shattered it, though the material absorbed significant energy.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro Skit
  2. 00:33B&T GHM9 Compact Introduction
  3. 02:11Synthetic Sapphire Block Overview
  4. 03:46.22 LR Ballistic Testing
  5. 06:27Q Erector 9 Suppressor Demo
  6. 11:139mm Ballistic Testing
  7. 14:335.56 NATO Ballistic Testing
  8. 16:02.308 Win Ballistic Testing
  9. 18:28.50 BMG Ballistic Testing

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hardness of the synthetic sapphire block tested?

The synthetic sapphire block used in the test has a Mohs hardness rating of 9. This makes it one of the hardest naturally occurring minerals, second only to diamond, offering extreme resistance to scratching and abrasion.

Which firearm caliber was most effective at damaging the sapphire block?

The .50 BMG caliber, fired from a Barrett M107A1 rifle, was the most effective. It completely shattered the sapphire block, demonstrating the immense energy required to overcome the material's hardness.

Did 9mm rounds damage the sapphire block?

No, 9mm rounds, both subsonic and supersonic, did not cause structural damage to the synthetic sapphire block. The bullets fragmented on impact, leaving lead residue on the surface but failing to scratch or crack the material.

What is the Q Erector 9 suppressor?

The Q Erector 9 is a modular suppressor designed for 9mm firearms. Its key feature is the ability to adjust its length by adding or removing baffle segments, allowing users to customize sound suppression levels and overall firearm length.

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