Short Barrel Showdown!...Hornady Critical Defense 40 S&W vs 45 ACP Self-Defense AMMO Test!

Published on March 15, 2024
Duration: 11:32

This video presents a ballistic gel test comparing Hornady Critical Defense 40 S&W and 45 ACP ammunition fired from short-barreled pistols. The test reveals surprising results, with the 45 ACP demonstrating superior expansion and less penetration than the 40 S&W, contrary to the presenter's expectations. Both calibers performed adequately for self-defense, but the 45 ACP exhibited more ideal expansion characteristics.

Quick Summary

In short barrel ballistic gel tests, Hornady Critical Defense 45 ACP (185gr) averaged 963 ft/s and achieved 16.25 inches of penetration with superior expansion. The 40 S&W (165gr) averaged 1117 ft/s but penetrated 23.25 inches with less ideal expansion, making the 45 ACP the better performer in this specific test.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Setup
  2. 00:37Ammunition & Firearms
  3. 01:5340 S&W Velocity Test
  4. 03:1845 ACP Velocity Test
  5. 04:42Ballistic Gel Test: 40 S&W
  6. 05:30Ballistic Gel Test: 45 ACP
  7. 05:50Gel Test Results & Analysis
  8. 07:24Close-up Gel Results
  9. 08:11Projectile Examination
  10. 08:50Measurements & Weight Retention
  11. 09:31Conclusion & Takeaways
  12. 10:13Final Thoughts & Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Hornady Critical Defense 40 S&W and 45 ACP perform in short barrel ballistic gel tests?

In short barrel tests, the 45 ACP demonstrated superior expansion and less penetration (16.25 inches) compared to the 40 S&W (23.25 inches). The 45 ACP's expansion was more symmetrical and complete, while the 40 S&W showed less ideal expansion despite a higher velocity.

What were the average velocities for 40 S&W and 45 ACP Critical Defense rounds from short barrels?

The 165-grain Hornady Critical Defense 40 S&W averaged 1117 ft/s from a 3.5-inch barrel. The 185-grain Hornady Critical Defense 45 ACP averaged 963 ft/s from a 3.8-inch barrel.

Which caliber performed better in terms of expansion during the short barrel gel test?

The 45 ACP performed better in terms of expansion, showing significant, uniform opening of the projectile. The 40 S&W expanded less, with the jacket peeling back but not achieving the same level of opening as the 45 ACP.

Are Hornady Critical Defense 40 S&W and 45 ACP suitable for short-barreled self-defense firearms?

Yes, both calibers are considered suitable for self-defense from short barrels. While the 45 ACP showed more ideal expansion characteristics in this test, both rounds are expected to perform adequately to stop a threat.

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