How Easily Do Bullets Deflect?

Published on January 12, 2026
Duration: 16:56

This video demonstrates how easily bullets can deflect when fired through obstacles like thick brush. Instructor Kyle from Classic Firearms tests common calibers including 9mm, 5.56x45mm, 7.62x39mm, .308 Winchester, and .45 ACP at 25-35 yards. The results show significant deflection, tumbling, and altered trajectories, highlighting the importance of understanding bullet behavior in real-world hunting or self-defense situations.

Quick Summary

Yes, bullets can deflect significantly when shot through obstacles like branches and brush. This video demonstrates how even common calibers can have their trajectories altered, leading to missed targets or unexpected impacts. Smaller, pointed bullets like 5.56x45mm are generally more prone to deflection.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Bullet Deflection Explained
  2. 00:44Test Setup: Shooting Through Dense Brush
  3. 01:03Calibers Tested: 9mm, 5.56, 7.62x39, .308, .45 ACP
  4. 04:039mm Bullet Deflection Test Results
  5. 05:465.56x45mm Bullet Deflection Test Results
  6. 07:317.62x39mm Bullet Deflection Test Results
  7. 09:19.308 Winchester Bullet Deflection Test Results
  8. 11:40.45 ACP Bullet Deflection Test Results
  9. 13:105.56x45mm Re-test in Denser Brush
  10. 14:55Summary of Bullet Deflection Findings
  11. 16:06Viewer Thoughts & Future Videos

Frequently Asked Questions

Do bullets deflect when shot through brush?

Yes, bullets can deflect significantly when shot through obstacles like branches and brush. This video demonstrates how even common calibers can have their trajectories altered, leading to missed targets or unexpected impacts.

Which bullet calibers deflect the most?

Smaller, pointed bullets like 5.56x45mm are generally more prone to deflection and tumbling. However, this test showed that larger calibers like .308 Winchester and even .45 ACP can also experience significant deflection and altered flight paths.

What factors influence bullet deflection?

Bullet deflection is influenced by the bullet's construction, shape, weight, and velocity, as well as the density and type of the obstacle it encounters. Smaller, lighter bullets tend to deflect more easily than larger, heavier ones.

Why is understanding bullet deflection important for shooters?

Understanding bullet deflection is crucial for hunters and those in self-defense situations. It helps anticipate potential misses or unintended impacts when firing through cover, ensuring responsibility for every round fired.

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