10mm Auto | How Much Does Barrel Length Matter? Chronograph Testing Using 3.8”, 4.5” and 5” Barrels

Published on September 23, 2023
Duration: 9:11

This video details a chronograph test comparing the velocity of 10mm Auto ammunition across three different barrel lengths: 3.8", 4.5", and 5". The test utilized 135gr, 200gr, and 220gr bullet weights to assess the impact of barrel length on muzzle velocity. The findings suggest that while barrel length does influence velocity, the difference may not be as drastic as commonly assumed, particularly with certain powder types.

Quick Summary

Chronograph testing of 10mm Auto firearms with 3.8", 4.5", and 5" barrels reveals that barrel length impacts velocity. Differences between a 3.8" and 5" barrel can range from 31-62 fps, with slower-burning powders showing greater sensitivity to barrel length.

Chapters

  1. 00:25Introduction & Test Setup
  2. 01:01Ammunition Overview
  3. 02:03Testing 135gr Ammo: 3.8" Barrel
  4. 02:56Testing 135gr Ammo: 4.5" Barrel
  5. 03:17Testing 135gr Ammo: 5" Barrel
  6. 03:49Testing 200gr Ammo: 3.8" Barrel
  7. 04:14Testing 200gr Ammo: 4.5" Barrel
  8. 04:42Testing 200gr Ammo: 5" Barrel
  9. 05:01Testing 220gr Ammo: 3.8" Barrel
  10. 05:33Testing 220gr Ammo: 4.5" Barrel
  11. 05:56Testing 220gr Ammo: 5" Barrel
  12. 06:21Data Analysis & Results
  13. 07:56Conclusion: Barrel Length Impact

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does barrel length affect 10mm Auto velocity?

Chronograph testing shows that 10mm Auto velocity is affected by barrel length. A 5-inch barrel generally yields higher velocities than a 3.8-inch barrel, with differences ranging from approximately 31 to 62 feet per second depending on the ammunition's bullet weight and powder type.

Is a 3.8-inch barrel 10mm Auto significantly less powerful than a 5-inch barrel?

While a 5-inch barrel does produce higher velocities, the difference is not always drastic. For example, the gain from a 4.5-inch to a 5-inch barrel can be as little as 3 feet per second. A 3.8-inch barrel is still considered effective for 10mm Auto.

Does bullet weight matter when testing barrel length impact on 10mm Auto velocity?

Yes, bullet weight influences the velocity difference observed with varying barrel lengths. Heavier bullets, like 220gr, showed a slightly larger absolute velocity difference between the shortest and longest barrels tested (3.8" vs 5") compared to lighter 135gr rounds.

What type of powder is most affected by 10mm Auto barrel length?

Slower-burning powders, such as Blue Dot, tend to be more significantly influenced by barrel length in terms of velocity gain. Faster-burning powders may show less pronounced velocity increases with longer barrels.

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