Guns & Ammo Season 18 Episode 5
Guns & Ammo
Season 18

Ep 5. Ballistic Science: Big Ballistics

  • January 29, 2020
  • 22 min

In the season 18 episode 5 of Guns & Ammo, we explore the science behind ballistics and the power of big bullets. Host Tom Beckstrand invites expert Rob Behr to help us understand the physics behind bullet size and how it affects damage, accuracy, and penetration.

The episode starts with a demonstration of the differences between small and big caliber bullets, and how they can drastically alter the outcome of a shooting. We see how a .22LR bullet barely goes through a piece of sheet metal, while a .50 BMG can easily penetrate multiple layers of reinforced steel.

We then move on to a detailed explanation of the main factors that determine bullet performance, including mass, speed, and material composition. We learn how bullets are usually made of lead or copper alloys, and how different coatings and shapes can affect their aerodynamics and stability.

Next, we dive into the various types of bullet designs, from hollow points to full metal jackets, and their respective uses in hunting, self-defense, and military applications. We also discover the advantages and disadvantages of expanding bullets and how they can create massive wound channels and tissue damage.

To further illustrate the power of big bullets, we visit a shooting range where Tom and Rob use a variety of weapons, including a .50 BMG rifle and a shotgun loaded with slugs. They aim at different targets to demonstrate the different trajectories, penetration depths, and impact forces of various bullets.

We also meet with expert gunsmiths who design and manufacture custom bullet molds and reloading equipment to create highly specialized bullets for specific purposes. They explain how they use advanced computational software and 3D printing to prototype and test new designs, as well as their ethical and legal obligations when dealing with dangerous weapons and ammunition.

Finally, we explore the potential of future technologies that could revolutionize the field of ballistics, such as smart bullets that can track their targets and adjust their trajectory in real-time, or non-lethal bullets that can incapacitate without causing permanent harm.

Overall, this episode of Guns & Ammo offers a fascinating and informative look at the science behind ballistics and the power of big bullets. Whether you are a seasoned gun enthusiast or simply curious about how firearms work, you are sure to learn something new and exciting.

Description
Watch Guns & Ammo - Ballistic Science: Big Ballistics (s18 e5) Online - Watch online anytime: Buy, Rent
Guns & Ammo, Season 18 Episode 5, is available to watch and stream on MyOutdoorTV. You can also buy, rent Guns & Ammo on demand at Amazon Prime online.
  • First Aired
    January 29, 2020
  • Runtime
    22 min
  • Language
    English