What is Bullet Setback? How Bad is it?

Published on April 6, 2019
Duration: 12:05

This video from The VSO Gun Channel explains the phenomenon of bullet setback, where repeatedly chambering a round can cause the bullet to be pushed deeper into the casing. Through a practical demonstration using Fiocchi 158-grain 9mm ammunition, the instructor shows how this setback occurs over multiple chamberings, measuring the change in bullet length. While it took 100 repetitions to achieve significant setback in factory ammunition, the video emphasizes that this can happen faster with reloads and highlights the importance of visual inspection for duty or concealed carry rounds to ensure reliability.

Quick Summary

Bullet setback is a phenomenon where a bullet is pushed deeper into its casing due to repeated chambering, potentially causing firearm malfunctions. A test showed significant setback after 100 chamberings of factory ammunition, highlighting the importance of visual inspection for duty or concealed carry rounds.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Bullet Setback Defined
  2. 00:26Bullet Setback Scenario
  3. 01:10Groundhog Hunting Anecdote
  4. 01:59Bullet Setback Malfunction Example
  5. 02:52Demonstration Setup
  6. 03:49Initial Measurement & Test Plan
  7. 04:14Repeated Chambering Test (Glock)
  8. 04:41Switching to M&P, Continued Test
  9. 05:10More Chambering & Measurements
  10. 06:01Fiocchi QC Process Explanation
  11. 07:39Continued Chambering & Low Light Test
  12. 08:39Final Measurements After 100 Reps
  13. 09:37Fiocchi Quality Control & Cost
  14. 10:06When Setback is a Concern
  15. 10:44Firing the Setback Round
  16. 11:15Conclusion & Takeaways

Frequently Asked Questions

What is bullet setback and how does it happen?

Bullet setback occurs when a bullet is pushed deeper into its casing due to repeated chambering. Each time a round is chambered, the bullet nose can strike the chamber's feed ramp or barrel, forcing it back into the case.

Can bullet setback cause firearm malfunctions?

Yes, severe bullet setback can cause malfunctions. The altered cartridge dimensions can affect headspace, leading to ignition issues or failure to fire, making it critical to inspect ammunition.

How many times can a round be chambered before bullet setback becomes a problem?

In a test with factory Fiocchi 9mm ammunition, significant setback was observed after 100 chamberings. However, this can vary, and reloaded ammunition may experience setback much faster.

Why is visual inspection of ammunition important for concealed carry or duty use?

Visual inspection is vital for concealed carry and duty ammunition because it allows you to identify potential issues like bullet setback. This ensures the round will reliably fire when needed, preventing critical malfunctions.

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