Will a 50BMG Bullet Curve?

Published on September 25, 2020
Duration: 15:17

This video from Edwin Sarkissian explores whether a .50 BMG bullet can curve. Using a Serbu RN-50 and various pipe configurations, the experiment demonstrates that while a 9mm bullet shows some curvature, the high-velocity .50 BMG round tends to penetrate the pipe's side on sharp bends or exhibits instability (keyholing) on smoother curves. The expert instructor emphasizes safety through remote firing.

Quick Summary

Expert firearms instructor Edwin Sarkissian tested if a .50 BMG bullet could curve. Using a Serbu RN-50 and custom pipe setups, the .50 BMG round either penetrated the pipe's side on sharp bends or became unstable on smooth curves, resulting in 'keyholing' impacts. A 9mm baseline test showed more curvature adherence.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Experiment Introduction
  2. 01:169mm Baseline Test
  3. 03:14Serbu RN-50 Overview
  4. 05:00Gear and EDC Showcase
  5. 07:36First .50 BMG Test (Sharp Bend)
  6. 11:05Second .50 BMG Test (Smooth Curve)

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a .50 BMG bullet curve when fired through pipes?

In tests by Edwin Sarkissian, a .50 BMG bullet fired through a sharp 45-degree pipe bend penetrated the side. When fired through a smooth curve, it followed the bend but became unstable, causing a 'keyhole' impact.

What is 'keyholing' in ballistics?

Keyholing occurs when a bullet becomes unstable in flight and strikes a target sideways, creating an elongated, oval-shaped impact mark resembling a keyhole. This often happens with unstable projectiles or those fired from improperly rifled barrels.

What is the Serbu RN-50 rifle?

The Serbu RN-50 is an affordable, break-action, single-shot rifle chambered in .50 BMG. Its simple design makes it suitable for experimental shooting and testing extreme ballistics.

How does a 9mm bullet behave in a curved pipe?

During a baseline test, a 9mm bullet fired through a curved pipe appeared to follow the bend to some extent, though it fragmented upon exiting and hit the target with shrapnel.

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