Does Bore Matter, Part II

Published on May 29, 2024
Duration: 5:30

This follow-up video tests the impact of bore condition on accuracy at 15 yards using a P38 pistol with interchangeable barrels. The experiment compares a pristine barrel to one with significant wear. While close-range differences were minimal in a previous test, this extended distance aims to reveal if bore quality significantly affects bullet stability and terminal impact.

Quick Summary

A test comparing a P38 pistol with a pristine barrel versus a severely worn bore at 15 yards revealed that the worn bore caused keyholing and less clean bullet holes, indicating bullet instability. While accuracy is reduced, the firearm remained shootable, highlighting the shooter's skill's importance.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Follow-up to Bore Matter Video
  2. 00:13Previous Test Recap: P38 Barrel Swap
  3. 01:03Introducing Isaiah & New Test Setup
  4. 01:12Testing Theory: Increased Distance
  5. 01:30Test Parameters: P38 at 15 Yards
  6. 01:40Loading Magazine: 9x19mm Parabellum
  7. 02:04First Shots Analysis (Good Bore)
  8. 02:34P38 Barrel Swap Procedure
  9. 03:40Bullet Hole Comparison: Good vs. Poor Bore
  10. 04:03Visual Assessment of Bullet Holes
  11. 04:15Surprise: How Little Bore Matters
  12. 04:37Conclusion: Bore Matters, But Less Than Expected
  13. 05:05Future Test Ideas: 100 Yards

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the condition of a firearm's bore significantly impact accuracy at 15 yards?

In a test with a P38 pistol, a severely worn bore showed signs of keyholing and less clean bullet holes at 15 yards compared to a pristine barrel. While the worn bore caused instability, the firearm remained shootable, suggesting the shooter's skill is a major factor even with a poor bore.

What are the signs of a worn bore affecting bullet flight?

A worn bore can cause bullets to tumble, leading to keyholing (the bullet entering the target sideways) and ripped, non-clean bullet holes on paper. This indicates a lack of stable projectile spin, which is crucial for accuracy.

How does a P38 pistol allow for barrel swapping?

The P38 features a mechanism for barrel swapping that involves disengaging a lever, dropping the slide, and utilizing a dropping block feature. This allows for the removal of the old barrel and the insertion of a new one with relative ease.

Is a firearm with a 'zero bore' or very worn barrel still safe to shoot?

According to the video, a firearm with a 'zero bore' or a bore rated as 'five' is still considered shootable and not dangerous. The primary concern with a poor bore is accuracy due to potential bullet instability, not immediate safety.

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from Legacy Collectibles

View all →