EP 182: Science of Bullet Selection

This video from GBRS Group explains the ballistic principles of deviation and deflection. Deviation is defined as a projectile passing through an object, while deflection is a contact that disrupts or changes trajectory. The demonstration uses 5.56x45mm rounds impacting pillars to illustrate these concepts, showing how fragments can cause minor disruption without lethal effect.

This video compares the terminal ballistics of the 450 Bushmaster and 30-06 Springfield using a ballistic chicken test. The 450 Bushmaster, with a heavier 250-grain bullet, demonstrated significant fragmentation and widespread tissue damage, with large pieces of the projectile and chicken found at considerable distances. The 30-06 Springfield, using a 180-grain bullet, showed good penetration and devastation, passing completely through the ballistic gel after the chicken, indicating a more focused wound channel.

This video explores the terminal ballistics of 9x19mm ammunition by firing rounds into a catalog. The experiment compares a full metal jacket (FMJ) round with a lead-core bullet to a pure lead bullet with an antimony core. The results demonstrate the penetration capabilities of 9mm rounds through paper and the deformation characteristics of different bullet types upon impact with a hard surface.

This gel block test compares the terminal ballistics of 5.56x45mm NATO M855 Green Tip and 7.62x39mm Tula ammunition. The 5.56mm round demonstrated significant expansion and tumbling, while the 7.62x39mm round showed similar width expansion but greater length and penetration. The test highlights the distinct terminal effects of these common rifle calibers.

This video demonstrates the terminal ballistics of a 150-grain 30-06 Springfield bullet, specifically its penetration capabilities through bone. The speaker highlights that the bullet was able to pass through multiple bones, including pork shoulders and a femur, with significant damage. The demonstration aims to illustrate the difficulty of believing claims of no exit wound for this caliber, suggesting the bullet's inherent power.

This video demonstrates the terminal ballistics of 338 ARC supersonic ammunition fired into a ballistic gel block. The test reveals a significant wound channel, with the bullet appearing to tumble and deviate, ultimately stopping within the gel. The performance is contrasted with a previous 300 Blackout supersonic shot that penetrated completely through the block.

This guide details the advanced technique for executing a long-range elk hunt, as demonstrated by a 12-year-old hunter under expert supervision. It emphasizes precise range estimation, scope adjustment using ballistic turrets, and marksmanship fundamentals for a successful shot at extreme distances (1376 yards). The process highlights the importance of preparation, practice, and specialized equipment for challenging hunting scenarios.

This expert guide from Gunwerks demonstrates the significant impact of the Coriolis effect on long-range bullet trajectory. Jeremy Winters, a Gunwerks Product Specialist, explains how Earth's rotation can shift Point of Impact (POI) by over 1 MOA at 1000 yards when shooting East or West. The video provides a live-fire demonstration and recommends shooting North or South to collect accurate ballistic data, minimizing Coriolis-induced errors.

This guide details the process of transforming a factory Remington Model 700 Sendero into a more capable long-range rifle, as demonstrated by Mike Davidson from Gunwerks. Key steps include a trigger upgrade to a 2-pound pull and a precision bedding job using Devcon Aluminum Putty to ensure action stability. The process emphasizes proper disassembly, careful application of bedding materials, and correct reassembly with specific torque values for action screws.

This video demonstrates a professional long-range coyote hunt in Montana, showcasing the effective use of a Gunwerks rifle. Dustin Butler, a representative for Gunwerks, highlights the 'range, dial, and kill' method for successful predator engagement at various distances, from close encounters to over 500 yards. The guide emphasizes proficiency with long-range optics and equipment for accurate shots in challenging terrain.