Phuc Long: "Does Size Matter?" on RECOILtv Ballistics (full episode)

Published on October 6, 2016
Duration: 3:31

This episode of RECOILtv Ballistics, hosted by Phuc Long, explores the effectiveness of different calibers in ballistic gel. The video compares the 45 ACP and 5.56x45 NATO, demonstrating their performance using FBI 10% ballistic gel. The key takeaway is that velocity, not just bullet size, significantly impacts terminal ballistics and damage potential.

Quick Summary

Ballistic testing shows that velocity is the primary factor in terminal ballistics, not just bullet size. A 5.56x45 NATO round, despite being smaller, achieves much higher velocities than a 45 ACP, leading to different performance characteristics in ballistic gel.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Caliber Debate
  2. 00:15Freedom Munitions Bore Buster Ad
  3. 00:41The 45 ACP Story
  4. 00:55Ballistics Testing Setup at Shoot Smart
  5. 01:02Testing the 45 ACP in Ballistic Gel
  6. 01:3845 ACP FMJ Performance Analysis
  7. 01:50Introducing the 5.56x45 NATO
  8. 02:04Testing the 5.56x45 NATO in Ballistic Gel
  9. 02:29Comparing 5.56x45 NATO and 45 ACP
  10. 02:38Velocity and Weight Comparison
  11. 03:07Conclusion: Velocity vs. Size

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the 45 ACP perform in ballistic gel?

In ballistic gel tests, a 45 ACP Full Metal Jacket round penetrated 18 inches without significant expansion. It is a heavier round but with lower velocity compared to smaller calibers.

What is the performance of 5.56x45 NATO in ballistic gel?

The 5.56x45 NATO 62-grain Full Metal Jacket round fragmented into multiple pieces and penetrated approximately 14 inches in ballistic gel. This smaller, lighter round achieves much higher velocities.

Does bullet size or velocity matter more for terminal ballistics?

According to ballistic testing, velocity plays a more critical role in terminal ballistics and the damage a projectile can inflict than sheer bullet size or mass alone.

What is the typical velocity of a 45 ACP round?

A standard 45 ACP cartridge, typically weighing 230 grains, travels at a velocity of around 830 feet per second.

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