Gun Calibers Explained for Beginners | Understanding Firearm Calibers (Simple Explanation)

Published on May 6, 2026
Duration: 1:11

This video clarifies the common misunderstanding of firearm caliber, explaining that it primarily refers to the diameter of the bullet. The instructor emphasizes that caliber does not directly equate to a gun's power or size, providing examples of different calibers used in both rifles and handguns. The explanation highlights the actual measurement differences between calibers like 9mm and .45 ACP, and notes that even within the same caliber designation (e.g., .45), different cartridge types exist.

Quick Summary

Firearm caliber is a measurement of the bullet's diameter, not necessarily its power. A .45 caliber bullet is about 11.43 mm wide, while a 9mm bullet is 9 mm wide. Both calibers can be used in rifles and handguns, and different cartridge types exist within the same caliber designation.

Chapters

  1. 00:02Caliber Misunderstandings
  2. 00:08What Caliber Actually Means
  3. 00:17.45 Caliber Measurement
  4. 00:199mm Caliber Measurement
  5. 00:24Caliber vs. Power Myth
  6. 00:29Caliber in Rifles vs. Handguns
  7. 00:38Metric vs. Imperial Caliber
  8. 00:48Diameter Difference Explained
  9. 00:52Different .45 Cartridges
  10. 00:58.45 ACP Explained
  11. 01:01.45 Long Colt and .45-70
  12. 01:04Caliber is Diameter

Frequently Asked Questions

What does firearm caliber actually mean?

Firearm caliber refers to the internal diameter of the barrel or the diameter of the bullet. For example, a .45 caliber bullet is approximately 0.45 inches wide, and a 9mm bullet is 9 millimeters wide. It's a measurement of the projectile's width.

Is a .45 caliber gun more powerful than a 9mm gun?

Not necessarily. While a .45 caliber bullet is wider than a 9mm bullet, caliber alone doesn't determine a firearm's power. Factors like bullet design, powder charge, and barrel length also play significant roles in a cartridge's performance.

Can 9mm and .45 caliber be used in both rifles and handguns?

Yes, both 9mm and .45 caliber cartridges can be chambered in both rifles and handguns. The caliber designation refers to the bullet diameter, not the type of firearm it's used in.

Are all .45 caliber cartridges the same?

No, even within the .45 caliber designation, there are different cartridge types such as .45 ACP, .45 Long Colt, and .45-70. These are distinct rounds with different specifications and are not interchangeable.

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