Sierra 115gr 9mm JHP Ballistic Gelatin Test & Review

Published on April 5, 2022
Duration: 8:09

This ballistic gelatin test evaluates the Sierra 115gr 9mm JHP. The test reveals inconsistent expansion and significant penetration issues, with some rounds passing completely through a 10% ballistic gelatin block even after passing through denim and t-shirt barriers. The instructor notes that only one out of three rounds expanded through denim, and expansion was minimal. The test highlights potential limitations of this ammunition for self-defense applications requiring reliable expansion and controlled penetration.

Quick Summary

The Sierra 115gr 9mm JHP exhibited inconsistent expansion in ballistic gelatin tests with denim and t-shirt barriers. Only one of three rounds expanded through denim, with minimal expansion. Penetration depths varied, with one non-expanding round reaching 24 inches through denim, indicating potential over-penetration issues.

Chapters

  1. 00:37Introduction: Sierra 115gr 9mm JHP Test
  2. 00:45Test Setup: Ballistic Gelatin & Firearm
  3. 01:28Gelatin Calibration & Barrier Setup
  4. 02:18First Round Analysis: Non-Expansion & Pass-Through
  5. 03:03Penetration Measurement (T-Shirt)
  6. 03:11Penetration Measurement (Denim)
  7. 04:07Second Test: Expansion Observed
  8. 04:23Analysis: Inconsistent Expansion & Stopping Power
  9. 05:37Tumbling Theory for Non-Expanding Round
  10. 05:51Penetration Measurements (Expanded vs. Non-Expanded)
  11. 06:20Bullet Weight Measurement
  12. 07:17Bullet Diameter Measurements
  13. 07:30Overall Performance Conclusion
  14. 07:39Comparison to Previous Test Results
  15. 07:49Future Ammunition Tests

Frequently Asked Questions

How did the Sierra 115gr 9mm JHP perform in ballistic gelatin tests with barriers?

The Sierra 115gr 9mm JHP showed inconsistent expansion. When fired through four layers of denim, only one out of three rounds expanded, and expansion was minimal. One non-expanding round penetrated 24 inches, while a round through a t-shirt penetrated 17.5-17.75 inches.

What firearm was used for the Sierra 115gr 9mm JHP ballistic test?

The ballistic gelatin test for the Sierra 115gr 9mm JHP utilized a Taurus G2 pistol equipped with a 3-inch barrel. This specific firearm choice is relevant for understanding potential velocity and performance factors in the test.

What were the measured expanded diameters of the Sierra 115gr 9mm JHP bullets?

The expanded diameter of the Sierra 115gr 9mm JHP bullet that successfully expanded through denim measured 0.510 inches. A bullet that passed through a single layer of t-shirt measured a narrower 0.464 inches in diameter.

Did the Sierra 115gr 9mm JHP reliably expand through denim barriers?

No, the Sierra 115gr 9mm JHP demonstrated unreliable expansion through denim. In the test, only one out of three rounds fired through four layers of denim showed any expansion, and that expansion was described as minimal.

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