Subsonic Vs Supersonic 22lr! (Lethality Test)

Published on December 23, 2025
Duration: 1:16

This video from Civilian Tactical provides an expert-level comparison of subsonic versus supersonic .22LR ammunition lethality. Using Clear Ballistics gelatin and simulating FBI testing standards with denim, the host demonstrates that heavy subsonic .22LR rounds can achieve greater penetration than their supersonic counterparts, challenging common assumptions about terminal performance. The experiment highlights the importance of bullet design and weight in terminal ballistics.

Quick Summary

A ballistic gel test comparing subsonic and supersonic .22LR rounds revealed that heavy subsonic FMJ bullets can penetrate over 12 inches, meeting effectiveness standards, while supersonic hollow points expand more. This indicates subsonic .22LR is not inherently less deadly, challenging common assumptions about terminal ballistics.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Subsonic vs. Supersonic .22LR
  2. 00:11Test Setup: Clear Ballistics Gel
  3. 00:21Supersonic .22LR Test Firing
  4. 00:26Subsonic .22LR Test Firing
  5. 00:34Barrier Testing: Denim Simulation
  6. 00:44Results and Analysis: Penetration vs. Expansion

Frequently Asked Questions

How does subsonic .22LR compare to supersonic .22LR in terms of lethality?

A test using Clear Ballistics gel and simulating FBI standards showed that heavy subsonic .22LR FMJ rounds can penetrate over 12 inches, exceeding the minimum requirement, while supersonic hollow points expand more. This suggests subsonic isn't necessarily less deadly, depending on bullet design.

What are the key differences between subsonic and supersonic .22LR ammunition?

Supersonic .22LR travels faster than the speed of sound, often designed for expansion (hollow points). Subsonic .22LR travels below the speed of sound, typically featuring Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) designs for deeper penetration rather than expansion.

Can subsonic .22LR penetrate as deeply as supersonic rounds?

Yes, heavy subsonic .22LR FMJ rounds demonstrated penetration exceeding 12 inches in a ballistic gel test, comparable to or greater than some supersonic rounds, especially when barriers like denim were introduced.

What equipment is needed for a ballistic gel test like this?

Essential equipment includes ballistic gelatin (like Clear Ballistics), a firearm chambered in .22LR, the ammunition types to be tested (subsonic and supersonic), a method for measuring velocity (optional but recommended), and potentially barriers like denim to simulate real-world conditions.

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