How Many Rolls of Toilet Paper Does it Take to Stop a 50 Cal?

Published on May 5, 2026
Duration: 1:35

This video demonstrates the penetration capabilities of various firearm calibers through rolls of toilet paper. It highlights how different bullet types and energy levels affect penetration depth, offering a visual, albeit unconventional, comparison of ballistic performance. The experiment provides a basic understanding of how projectile energy translates to stopping power against a soft, compressible medium.

Quick Summary

This ballistic experiment tested the penetration of various firearm calibers through rolls of toilet paper. A .22 stopped in the 3rd roll, .380 in the 7th, 9mm in the 8th, and .45 ACP in the 5th. Rifle rounds like .223 penetrated 12 rolls, .30-06 15 rolls, and the powerful .50 BMG went through 18 rolls.

Chapters

  1. 00:02Introduction: Bullet vs. Toilet Paper Test
  2. 00:11.22 Caliber Bullet Penetration
  3. 00:22.380 ACP Bullet Penetration
  4. 00:309mm Bullet Penetration
  5. 00:37.45 ACP Bullet Penetration
  6. 00:42.44 Magnum Bullet Penetration
  7. 00:54.50 AE (Desert Eagle) Bullet Penetration
  8. 01:04.223 Remington (AR) Bullet Penetration
  9. 01:12.30-06 Springfield Bullet Penetration
  10. 01:28.50 BMG Bullet Penetration

Frequently Asked Questions

How many rolls of toilet paper can a .50 BMG bullet penetrate?

In this experiment, a .50 BMG round demonstrated significant penetration power, ripping through 18 rolls of toilet paper before veering off. This highlights the extreme energy and destructive capability of this large caliber round.

What is the penetration difference between a 9mm and a .45 ACP through toilet paper?

A 9mm round penetrated seven rolls and stopped on the outside of the eighth, while a .45 ACP round penetrated four rolls and stopped in the fifth. This suggests the .45 ACP, with its larger diameter but typically lower velocity, had less penetration in this specific medium compared to the 9mm.

Can common handgun rounds like .380 ACP or 9mm be stopped by soft materials?

Yes, this test shows that common handgun rounds like .380 ACP and 9mm can be significantly slowed or stopped by a sufficient quantity of soft, compressible material like toilet paper. The .380 stopped in the 7th roll, and the 9mm in the 8th.

How does a rifle round like .223 Remington compare to handgun rounds in penetration?

The .223 Remington round, fired from an AR platform, penetrated 12 rolls of toilet paper. This is more than most handgun rounds tested, indicating that rifle cartridges generally possess higher energy and penetration capabilities.

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