Penetration of Armor-Piercing Ammunition: .50 BMG vs. .308 Copper-Plated Hollow-Point Rounds

When discussing the effectiveness of armor-piercing ammunition, it is crucial to understand the factors that influence penetration capabilities. These factors include the specific design of the projectile, the velocity at which it is fired, the distance to the target, and the type of material being penetrated. This article will explore the penetration depths of .50 BMG armor-piercing rounds and .308 copper-plated hollow-point rounds, with a focus on mild steel. Additionally, we will discuss the factors that influence these penetration capabilities to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject.

.50 BMG Armor-Piercing Rounds

The performance of .50 BMG armor-piercing rounds, such as the M33, is highly dependent on various factors. At close ranges, the typical penetration depth of a .50 BMG round is between 25 to 30 mm (1 to 1.2 inches). It is important to note that specialized armor-piercing rounds may achieve deeper penetration due to their unique construction. The video by Myth Busters demonstrated that these rounds could penetrate through three or four 1/4-inch metal bars spaced a few inches apart, totaling up to approximately 0.75 inches of thickness at close range. Under the right conditions, penetration can extend up to 1.5 inches if the target is within a certain range.

.308 Armor-Piercing Rounds

The penetration capability of a typical armor-piercing .308 round, such as the M61, is significantly lower compared to the .50 BMG round. At close ranges, a .308 AP round can penetrate about 10 to 15 mm (0.4 to 0.6 inches) of mild steel. Once again, the actual penetration depth can vary based on the specific ammunition design and environmental conditions. The M61 round, similar to the M33, has its limitations in penetration depth when compared to the larger gauge of the .50 BMG.

Factors Influencing Penetration

Several key factors affect the penetration capability of armor-piercing ammunition, including:

Velocity

Higher velocities generally result in better penetration due to the increased kinetic energy. The faster the projectile travels, the more energy it has to overcome the resistance of the material being penetrated.

Projectile Design

The shape and composition of the projectile play a crucial role in its ability to penetrate armor. Modern armor-piercing rounds often include design features such as hardened nose caps and variable case shapes to enhance their effectiveness.

Target Thickness and Material

The thickness and type of the target material are critical factors. Mild steel, for example, is more easily penetrated compared to harder materials such as armor-piercing composite materials. The thickness of the steel also significantly affects penetration depth.

Distance

Penetration is influenced by the range at which the ammunition is fired. As the distance increases, the velocity diminishes, which in turn reduces the penetration capability of the projectile.

For precise applications, it is essential to refer to specific ballistic testing data for the ammunition in question. These tests can provide more accurate information on the performance of the round under various conditions.

Conclusion

The penetration capabilities of armor-piercing ammunition such as the .50 BMG and .308 rounds can vary based on numerous factors. The .50 BMG tends to achieve significantly better penetration depths than the .308 due to its higher velocity and larger size. However, the specific conditions, including target material, thickness, and firing range, will influence the exact penetration depth.

Understanding these factors is crucial for applications requiring precise information on penetration capabilities, whether for military, law enforcement, or recreational use.