Smyth Busters: Are All Hollow-Point Bullets Meant to Expand?

This video compares the ballistic performance of 9mm and .308 Winchester ammunition when fired into Clear Ballistics Gel versus water jugs. The presenter found surprisingly similar results in terms of bullet expansion and penetration between the two mediums, suggesting water jugs can offer a reasonable approximation for testing without specialized gel. The experiment highlights how different ammunition types react upon impact.

This discussion delves into the nuances of bullet performance, specifically focusing on expansion and penetration dynamics. It explains how factors like velocity, bullet construction (e.g., skives in JHP bullets), and sectional density influence terminal ballistics. The conversation highlights that faster bullets don't always penetrate deeper and that solid copper bullets offer excellent weight retention and penetration.

This ballistic test compares .45 ACP Corbon Powerball and 9mm Barnes XPD ammunition fired at 10 meters into ballistic gelatin. The .45 ACP demonstrated significant wound cavitation, with material exiting the front, while the 9mm showed less cavitation but penetrated slightly further. The test highlights the trade-offs between expansion and penetration, and the .45 ACP's polymer ball is noted as a potential solution for firearms with feeding issues with traditional hollow points.

This episode delves into the science of bullet selection for hunting, emphasizing that effective kills are achieved through exanguination (blood loss) by creating adequate wound cavities. The discussion categorizes bullets into expanding, match, and controlled expansion types, explaining their distinct performance characteristics based on upset distance, cavitation, and penetration. The importance of understanding a bullet's behavior at various impact velocities and ranges is highlighted, guiding hunters to make informed choices for ethical and successful harvests.

This video discusses the debate between heavy versus light defensive ammunition, with the instructor favoring heavier rounds for their ability to penetrate intermediate barriers and maintain terminal ballistics. The discussion highlights that while light, fast rounds can be deadly, they may fragment or deflect upon hitting barriers, whereas heavier rounds are more reliable in such scenarios. The importance of thorough ammunition research beyond marketing claims is emphasized.

This gel block test compares the terminal ballistics of 5.56x45mm NATO M855 Green Tip and 7.62x39mm Tula ammunition. The 5.56mm round demonstrated significant expansion and tumbling, while the 7.62x39mm round showed similar width expansion but greater length and penetration. The test highlights the distinct terminal effects of these common rifle calibers.

This guide details the installation of a Geissele MK8 Super Modular Rail on an AR-15 platform. It covers securing the upper receiver, installing the barrel nut, gas system, and the rail itself, emphasizing the use of specialized tools and proper torque specifications. The process requires an intermediate skill level and careful attention to detail for a secure and functional build.

This guide, based on expert instruction from Brownells, details essential practices for proper ammunition storage. It emphasizes using airtight containers, managing humidity with desiccants, and maintaining stable temperatures to ensure ammunition reliability and safety. Proper storage is crucial for preventing corrosion and propellant degradation, especially for sensitive components like primers.

This guide details the process of upgrading an AR-15 from standard A2 furniture to Magpul components. It covers the removal of the A2 pistol grip and installation of the Magpul MIAD Grip and Magpul PRS Stock. The video demonstrates efficient assembly using specialized tools, highlighting the ergonomic benefits and adjustability of the Magpul parts. Instruction is provided by Brownells, a recognized industry authority.

This entry details the creation of a movie prop suppressor for a Remington 11-87 used in 'No Country for Old Men.' Prop master Larry Zanoff explains how the suppressor was designed to look homemade and was non-functional, with sound effects added in post-production. The process highlights the creative problem-solving involved in film armory.