Makarov 9x18mm Vs Luger 9x19mm Hornady Critical Defense Gel Test

Published on November 3, 2015
Duration: 3:33

This video compares the ballistic performance of 9x18mm Makarov and 9x19mm Luger ammunition, specifically Hornady Critical Defense and XTP rounds, using FBI gel blocks. The test indicates that while the 9x19mm Luger generally produces a larger wound cavity and exhibits more energy, the 9x18mm Makarov remains a relevant caliber, particularly with modern ammunition designs like Hornady's FTX bullets, which showed good performance and integrity.

Quick Summary

The 9x19mm Luger generally outperforms the 9x18mm Makarov in ballistic gel tests, producing larger wound cavities due to higher velocity and weight. However, modern ammunition like Hornady's Critical Defense FTX shows the 9x18mm Makarov remains a relevant caliber with effective performance.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Makarov vs Luger
  2. 00:28Hornady Critical Defense FTX Test
  3. 01:16Hornady XTP Test
  4. 02:02Results Analysis: Wound Cavities
  5. 02:42Bullet Performance Comparison
  6. 03:16Conclusion: Makarov Relevance

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the 9x18mm Makarov compare to the 9x19mm Luger in ballistic performance?

The 9x19mm Luger generally has higher velocity and more weight, leading to a larger wound cavity in ballistic gel tests. However, the 9x18mm Makarov, especially with modern ammunition like Hornady's FTX, shows improved performance and remains a relevant caliber.

What was the outcome of the Hornady Critical Defense gel test between Makarov and Luger calibers?

In the gel test, both calibers fired Hornady Critical Defense FTX bullets. While the 9x19mm Luger showed a larger wound cavity, the 9x18mm Makarov demonstrated effective energy transfer and bullet tip expansion, suggesting its continued viability.

Did the Hornady XTP ammunition perform differently in the 9x18mm Makarov versus the 9x19mm Luger?

Yes, the 9x19mm Luger XTP round showed jacket separation and exited the gel, while the 9x18mm Makarov XTP round stopped within the gel block but remained intact, indicating different expansion and penetration characteristics.

Is the 9x18mm Makarov caliber still considered effective?

Based on this ballistic gel test, the 9x18mm Makarov is considered a relevant caliber, particularly when paired with modern ammunition designs like Hornady's Critical Defense FTX. While the 9x19mm Luger typically shows greater energy and wound cavity, the Makarov's performance is deemed acceptable.

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