Snake Shot Is Useless?

Published on April 11, 2025
Duration: 12:44

This guide details a comprehensive test methodology for evaluating snake shot ammunition, as demonstrated by Banana Ballistics. It covers spread pattern testing at close range, ballistic gel penetration analysis, and a simulated real-world test using a reinforced hose. The expert-level assessment highlights the importance of considering noise levels and penetration for effective pest control, recommending .22 LR for its balance of low noise and adequate performance at close distances.

Quick Summary

Testing by Banana Ballistics reveals .22 LR snake shot offers the best balance of low noise and adequate spread for common pests at close range. While .410 Bore is more powerful, its loudness is a drawback. Penetration tests in ballistic gel show .22 LR under 2 inches, while .45 ACP and .410 reach up to 4 inches.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Cartridge Lineup
  2. 01:38Spread Pattern Testing (5 Feet)
  3. 05:09Ballistic Gel Penetration Tests
  4. 08:20Simulated Snake Body Test
  5. 12:26Conclusion & Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most effective snake shot caliber for pest control?

Based on testing, the .22 LR snake shot offers the best balance of low noise and adequate spread for common pests at close range. While .410 Bore is more powerful, its significantly higher noise level makes it less suitable for residential areas. The 9mm lead-free shot showed poor spread performance.

How does snake shot perform in ballistic gel tests?

In 10% ballistic gel, .22 caliber snake shots penetrated less than 2 inches. Larger calibers like .45 ACP and .410 Bore achieved deeper penetration, reaching up to 4 inches, indicating they are more effective for larger pests.

What is the effective range for snake shot?

Snake shot is designed for very close-range use, typically within 5-10 feet. Testing showed limited spread and penetration beyond these distances, making it unsuitable for longer-range pest control scenarios.

Are semi-automatic snake shot rounds (like 9mm or .45 ACP) effective?

While larger caliber semi-automatic rounds like .45 ACP showed better penetration in ballistic gel, their noise levels were found to be surprisingly loud, potentially limiting their practical use in residential settings. The 9mm lead-free shot also demonstrated poor spread patterns.

Related News

All News →

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from Banana Ballistics

View all →