HELP! Bullets impacting Sideways!? #shorts

Published on April 3, 2023
Duration: 0:41

This video addresses a common shooting problem: bullets impacting targets sideways, known as 'keyholing.' The presenter, an intermediate enthusiast, uses an Aero Precision AR-15 with AAC 5.56 NATO ammunition and seeks solutions. The guide outlines steps to diagnose the issue, focusing on target analysis, firearm function, and ammunition/barrel specifications.

Quick Summary

Bullet keyholing, where bullets impact targets sideways, indicates a stabilization issue. Causes can include ammunition inconsistencies, incorrect barrel twist rate for the bullet weight, or barrel wear. Inspect targets for keyhole marks, verify ammo specs, and check the firearm's barrel for damage.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Bullet Impact Problem
  2. 00:12Identifying Keyholing on Target
  3. 00:21Ammunition and Barrel Specifications
  4. 00:32Seeking Solutions for Bullet Tumbling

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes bullets to impact sideways on a target?

Bullets impacting sideways, known as 'keyholing,' typically occur when the bullet is not stabilizing correctly in flight. This can be due to issues with the ammunition (e.g., inconsistent weight, improper construction), or problems with the firearm's barrel, such as insufficient rifling twist rate for the bullet weight, or significant wear.

How can I diagnose bullet keyholing with my AR-15?

To diagnose keyholing, first observe your target for elongated or 'keyhole' shaped impact holes instead of round ones. Ensure your rifle is cycling properly. Then, check your ammunition specifications and inspect your barrel for any signs of damage or excessive wear that might affect bullet stabilization.

What ammunition was used in the video showing AR-15 keyholing?

The video used AAC (America's Ammunition Company) 5.56 NATO ammunition. Specifically, it was 55 Grain Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) rounds, which have a stated velocity of 3175 FPS.

Is a new AR-15 barrel prone to causing keyholing?

While less common in new barrels, keyholing can still occur. The video's AR-15 barrel had only about 500 rounds through it, indicating that even with low round count, factors like ammunition compatibility with the barrel's twist rate or manufacturing defects could lead to stabilization issues.

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