[TESTING TUESDAY] Is It Possible For The Internet To Be WRONG?!? Testing The Twist Rate Tale

Published on June 15, 2021
Duration: 14:12

This video from ARFCOM News debunks the myth that a slower 1:12 twist rate on an M16A1 produces more severe wounds than a faster 1:7 twist rate on an M16A2. Through ballistic gel testing with M193 ammunition, the host, demonstrating expert knowledge, found no significant difference in terminal performance between the two twist rates. The myth is attributed to differences in ammunition types (M193 vs. M855) used with the respective rifle platforms, not the twist rate itself.

Quick Summary

ARFCOM News expert testing found no significant difference in ballistic gel performance between 1:12 and 1:7 twist AR-15 barrels using M193 55-grain FMJ ammunition. The extreme density of ballistic gel renders minor stability differences from twist rate immeasurable, debunking the myth that slower twists cause more severe wounds.

Chapters

  1. 00:08Introduction & Myth Testing
  2. 00:54Rifling and Twist Rate Explained
  3. 01:27M16A2 Ammo & Wounding Theory
  4. 02:04Skepticism & Testing Setup
  5. 02:47Ammunition & Gel Setup
  6. 03:171:12 Twist Gel Test & Analysis
  7. 05:52M193 Ammo for Defense
  8. 06:191:7 Twist Gel Test & Analysis
  9. 10:05Conclusion: No Significant Difference
  10. 10:43Why Twist Rate Irrelevance in Gel
  11. 11:32Myth Origin Explained
  12. 12:20M193 for Defensive Use

Frequently Asked Questions

Does AR-15 twist rate affect bullet performance in ballistic gel?

In tests using M193 55-grain FMJ ammunition, ARFCOM News found no significant difference in ballistic gel performance between a 1:12 twist barrel and a 1:7 twist barrel. The extreme density of the gel likely negates minor stability differences from twist rate.

What is the difference between 1:7 and 1:12 twist rates in AR-15 barrels?

A 1:12 twist rate means the rifling completes one full rotation every 12 inches of barrel length, while a 1:7 twist rate completes a rotation every 7 inches. Faster twist rates (like 1:7) are generally needed for heavier, longer bullets to stabilize them in flight.

Why did older M16A1 rifles supposedly cause worse wounds than M16A2s?

The perceived difference in wound severity was likely due to the ammunition used. M16A1s typically fired M193 ammo, which fragments more readily, while M16A2s often fired M855 ammo. The ammunition type, not just the twist rate, significantly impacts terminal ballistics.

Is M193 55-grain FMJ ammunition good for self-defense?

M193 55-grain FMJ is considered a decent all-purpose round for defensive use, offering a balance of cost and performance. While not as effective as specialized expanding ammunition, it provides adequate results, especially when fired at higher velocities.

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