243 vs 6.5 vs 7mm-08 vs 308: Not Even Close?

This video from Gun For Hire Range features Rich and Matt conducting a comprehensive caliber comparison test. They fire various calibers (.22, .223, .308, 7.62x39mm, .50 BMG) at multiple targets including paper rolls, ballistic gel, a dead laptop, blast bottles, and tiles. The experiment visually demonstrates the significant differences in power and destructive capability between these common and powerful rounds. The instruction is delivered in an entertaining, expert-led format, showcasing practical application and comparative ballistics.

The video explains that grip depth differences between common handgun calibers like 9mm, .40 S&W, .357 Sig, and .45 ACP are minimal. It notes that some larger magnum rounds may require slightly larger grips. The discussion also clarifies that Glock's SF models refer to short frames, not slim frames, and their grip size was adjusted based on caliber accommodation.

This video demonstrates a ballistic test using pumpkins to gauge the penetration power of various calibers, from .22 LR up to .50 BMG. The experiment, conducted by an experienced individual, showcases how different firearms and rounds interact with a soft barrier, providing a visual understanding of projectile energy and stopping power. The results highlight significant differences in penetration capabilities across the tested calibers.

This video demonstrates that bullets can indeed ricochet off ice, similar to how they behave on water. Using a .45 ACP pistol, the experiment shows that while shallow angles may lead to penetration, shallower angles can induce a skip or ricochet. The presence of water beneath the ice and the high-speed impact are noted as factors influencing bullet behavior. The experiment concludes with a successful ricochet off the ice, impacting a tree, highlighting the potential for unpredictable projectile paths in such conditions.

This video demonstrates a 'redneck science' approach to target testing using common organic materials like watermelons and meat. Host Tim Harmsen and firearms influencer IraqVeteran8888 showcase the effects of 9mm rounds on these targets, highlighting a fun and informal method for observing projectile impact. The segment emphasizes practical application and entertainment value in firearms content.

This video demonstrates a practical, albeit unconventional, test of bullet penetration using decks of cards against various firearm calibers, from 9mm to .50 BMG. The host, a firearms enthusiast, showcases the relative stopping power of different rounds, highlighting the significant energy required to impede even smaller projectiles. The experiment emphasizes firearm safety and provides a visual understanding of ballistic performance.

This video provides an expert-level comparison between the .44 Magnum and .50 Action Express calibers, featuring a Magnum Research Desert Eagle and a Ruger Super Redhawk. The host, demonstrating high authority, conducts a series of tests including penetration through lumber, steel, sand, and concrete, followed by ballistic gel testing with hollow-point rounds. The analysis highlights differences in muzzle energy, penetration, and wound channel, ultimately questioning the cost-to-performance ratio of the .50 AE.

This video provides an in-depth, experimental comparison between .223 Remington and 5.56x45mm NATO cartridges, utilizing a chronograph and various barrier materials. The host, demonstrating high expertise through empirical testing, reveals significant performance differences, particularly in barrier penetration, with 5.56x45mm NATO generally outperforming .223 Remington.

This video from Banana Ballistics explores the surprising lethality of "less lethal" shotgun ammunition. Through rigorous testing with ballistic gel and plywood, the host demonstrates that rounds like bean bags and high-velocity .410 rubber buckshot can cause significant damage, challenging the common perception of these rounds as entirely non-lethal. The testing highlights the importance of understanding ammunition performance beyond its intended classification.

This video provides an objective comparison of 9mm Luger, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP calibers through a series of rigorous tests including lumber, sand, concrete, and ballistics gel. The host, leveraging specialized equipment like a Garmin Xero C1 Pro chronograph and digital calipers, presents data on velocity, penetration, and expansion. While .40 S&W showed competitive performance in some tests, the analysis concludes with a preference for 9mm due to its higher capacity and lower recoil, highlighting the importance of practical considerations beyond raw ballistics.