🧥Does Your AMMO Really NEED a JACKET?🧥

Published on October 2, 2022
Duration: 10:08

This video demonstrates how barrel length affects bullet velocity and, consequently, the expansion of hollow-point ammunition. Testing with Remington HTP .38 Special +P 158 GR LHP from a 2-inch and a 4-inch Taurus revolver showed that the shorter barrel produced insufficient velocity for proper bullet expansion in ballistic gel, while the longer barrel achieved designed expansion. The expert instructor highlights the critical role of velocity in terminal performance for self-defense.

Quick Summary

Bullet expansion is critical for terminal ballistics and is directly influenced by velocity, which is significantly impacted by barrel length. Testing with .38 Special +P hollow points from 2-inch and 4-inch Taurus revolvers showed the longer barrel achieved sufficient velocity for proper expansion in ballistic gel, unlike the shorter barrel.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Ammo Jacket Question
  2. 00:10Testing Setup Overview
  3. 00:28Ammunition Details
  4. 00:57Revolver Details
  5. 01:28Explaining Testing Methodology
  6. 01:462-inch Barrel Velocity Test
  7. 02:354-inch Barrel Velocity Test
  8. 03:292-inch Barrel Gel Test
  9. 04:204-inch Barrel Gel Test
  10. 05:50Gel Comparison and Expansion
  11. 06:17Retrieving Bullets from Gel
  12. 06:29Recovered Bullet Comparison
  13. 07:10Measuring 2-inch Barrel Recovered Bullet
  14. 08:00Measuring 4-inch Barrel Recovered Bullet
  15. 08:54Conclusion: Velocity and Bullet Performance

Frequently Asked Questions

Does barrel length affect bullet expansion?

Yes, barrel length significantly impacts bullet expansion. Longer barrels provide more time for gunpowder to burn, increasing muzzle velocity. Higher velocity is crucial for hollow-point bullets to expand properly upon impact, as demonstrated in tests comparing 2-inch and 4-inch barrels.

What is the role of velocity in bullet expansion?

Velocity is a primary factor in bullet expansion. Hollow-point bullets are designed to expand when they reach a certain velocity threshold upon hitting a target. If the muzzle velocity is too low, the bullet may not expand, leading to a narrower wound channel and reduced effectiveness.

How does ballistic gel help test bullet performance?

Ballistic gel simulates human tissue and allows for visual assessment of how a bullet performs after impact. It shows the bullet's penetration depth, expansion, and the temporary cavity created, providing critical data on terminal ballistics without live animal testing.

What are the key differences in bullet performance from short vs. long barrels?

From a shorter barrel (like 2 inches), bullets often lack the necessary velocity to expand, resulting in a narrow wound channel. From a longer barrel (like 4 inches), higher velocity allows hollow-point bullets to expand as designed, creating a wider wound channel and increasing their effectiveness for self-defense.

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