Will A Gun Shoot Underwater ???

Published on December 19, 2025
Duration: 2:56

This guide details a method for testing firearm functionality and durability underwater, as demonstrated by Kentucky Ballistics. It emphasizes safety through remote firing and controlled environments. The tests reveal significant energy loss and potential for catastrophic failure in firearms when fired submerged, with larger calibers like .50 BMG causing extreme water displacement and structural damage.

Quick Summary

Firearms can fire underwater, but with drastically reduced performance and increased risk of failure. Smaller calibers like 9mm and .45 ACP lose significant energy, showing no bullet deformation. Larger calibers and semi-automatic rifles like the AR-15 can experience catastrophic failures, while powerful rounds like .50 BMG can penetrate targets and structures.

Chapters

  1. 00:009mm Underwater Test
  2. 00:21.45 ACP Underwater Test
  3. 00:46500 Magnum Underwater Test
  4. 01:06AR-15 Underwater Test
  5. 01:48AK-47 Underwater Test
  6. 02:1050 BMG Underwater Test

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a 9mm handgun fire underwater?

Yes, a 9mm handgun can fire underwater, but it experiences significant energy loss. The bullet showed zero deformation on a steel target, and a unique physical sensation was noted by the shooter.

What happens when an AR-15 is fired underwater?

When an AR-15 chambered in 5.56x45mm FMJ was fired underwater, it suffered catastrophic failure. The upper receiver split, the bolt jammed, and the magazine was destroyed, indicating extreme stress.

Does a .50 BMG rifle work underwater?

A .50 BMG rifle like the Serbu RN-50 can fire underwater with immense force. In testing, it penetrated a steel target and the pool wall, causing the pool to drain completely.

How does water affect bullet performance?

Water significantly increases resistance, causing rapid deceleration and substantial energy loss. This results in minimal to no bullet deformation for smaller calibers and can lead to catastrophic firearm failures for certain platforms.

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