How Many Paper Plates Does it Take to Stop a Bullet?

This video from Line45, hosted by Ted, outlines seven critical ammunition calibers Americans should stockpile to prepare for potential ammo shortages, referencing patterns seen in 2020 and anticipating a 2026 crunch. Ted emphasizes the importance of having sufficient defensive and training ammunition for various firearms, detailing why specific calibers disappear first during panic buying and the factors influencing supply chain disruptions. The advice is geared towards intermediate shooters and gun owners concerned with preparedness.

This video demonstrates a practical, albeit informal, test of bullet penetration through common building bricks using various firearms and calibers. From .22 LR to .50 BMG, the experiment visually showcases the significant differences in ballistic energy and stopping power. The presenter, Parker, offers an enthusiastic and knowledgeable approach, highlighting the destructive potential of each round.

This video tests the ballistic resistance of a 1kg rubber mallet against various calibers of ammunition, from .22 LR to .308 Winchester. The mallet demonstrates significant resistance, absorbing or deflecting most rounds, but is ultimately penetrated by the .308. The test highlights the surprising durability of the rubber mallet against firearm projectiles.

This video provides expert guidance on stockpiling ammunition, emphasizing pattern recognition of market shortages rather than panic buying. It details seven calibers that consistently become scarce, offering specific recommendations for reserve quantities for each, distinguishing between training and defensive loads. The advice is presented from the perspective of a firearms instructor focused on practical preparedness.

This video, presented by Sully from Line 45, outlines the top 10 calibers to stockpile before 2026, citing rising ammo prices and potential supply shortages. It emphasizes proactive purchasing of calibers like .40 S&W, 7.62x39mm, .45 ACP, 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Winchester, 12 Gauge, .22 LR, .223 Remington/5.56 NATO, 9mm Luger, and 10mm Auto, explaining the specific reasons for each's vulnerability during market fluctuations.

This video demonstrates a practical, albeit unconventional, test of bullet penetration using decks of cards against various firearm calibers, from 9mm to .50 BMG. The host, a firearms enthusiast, showcases the relative stopping power of different rounds, highlighting the significant energy required to impede even smaller projectiles. The experiment emphasizes firearm safety and provides a visual understanding of ballistic performance.

This video demonstrates the ballistic resistance of an excavator bucket against various firearm calibers, from .22 LR to .50 BMG API. The test, conducted by an experienced individual, shows that while smaller calibers cause minimal damage, larger rounds like the .50 BMG API can penetrate the bucket. The footage provides visual evidence of impact effects and the destructive potential of different ammunition types.

This video tests the penetration capabilities of various calibers against a large pine tree, culminating with a .50 BMG API round. Surprisingly, even powerful rifle rounds like 5.56mm and 7.62mm, as well as handgun rounds like 10mm and .44 Magnum, failed to fully penetrate the tree. The .50 BMG API round, while charring the entry point, also did not exit the back of the tree, demonstrating the significant stopping power of a substantial tree trunk.

This video from Yee Yee Life features an experienced host testing the ballistic penetration of various calibers, from .22 LR to .50 BMG, in an Intex swimming pool. The host demonstrates proper firearm safety and provides detailed measurements of bullet penetration depths, offering unique insights into how different rounds interact with water as a medium. The results highlight significant variations in penetration based on caliber and velocity.

This video tests the ballistic resistance of a Secret Service Suburban window against various calibers, from .22 LR to .50 BMG. While smaller calibers and even a 10mm and .44 Magnum were stopped with varying degrees of damage, the window was eventually penetrated by a .50 BMG sniper rifle round. The testing provides a clear demonstration of the limits of armored vehicle glass against high-powered rifle threats.