Ballistic testing
standards were developed after a shootout in 1985.
Ballistic testing standards are pretty straightforward. Handgun bullets must penetrate at least 12 inches of tissue to be considered reliable in penetrating vital organs. Since the minimum penetration is 12 inches, the only way to cause more damage is to increase the size of the hole left by the bullet. With the increase in the size of the hole comes more damage to the human body. Other than completely damaging the central nervous system, the only way to halt an adversary is through blood loss.
The gelatin blocks, used in the testing, are 6 inches x 16 inches. Additional blocks are lined up to make sure to contain the bullet. Police-issued weapons are used to fire the shots, with five shots being fired during each test. After the shot, the bullet is measured by measuring the diameter and averaging the biggest and smallest diameter.
Test 1: Bare Gelatin to Simulate Human Tissue
Shots are fired at a range of 10 feet. The distance is measured from the front of the block to the muzzle of the gun. Rounds that do not meet the standard 12-inch penetration are considered unreliable.
Test 2: Heavy Clothing
One cotton T-shirt material, one cotton shirt material, a 10-ounce down comforter in a cambric shell cover and one layer of 13 ounces cotton denim are used to simulate winter clothing. The block is shot at from a distance of 10 feet.
Test 3: Steel to Simulate the Weakest Part of a Car Door
Two pieces of 20 gauge, 6-inch squares of hot rolled steel with a galvanized finish are place three inches apart. The block is 18 inches behind the steel and covered in light clothing. In this test, the 10-foot measurement is from the muzzle to the first piece of steel.
Test 4: Wall Board Simulating an Interior Wall
Two pieces of gypsum board, 6-inches square, are placed 3.5 inches apart. The block is 18 inches behind the gypsum board and is covered in light clothing. The 10-foot measurement begins at the muzzle and ends with the first piece of gypsum board.
Test 5: Plywood to Simulate Wooden Doors and Lumber
One 6-inch square, 3/4-inch piece of AA fir plywood is used. Light clothing is used on the block that is 18-inches behind the plywood. The distance between the muzzle and plywood is 10 feet.
Test 6: Glass
A 15-inch x 18-inch, 1/4 inch piece of A.S.I laminated automobile safety glass is placed at a 45-degree, horizontal angle. The bore of the firearm is offset by 15 degrees to one side. The change in angles represents a shot fired at the driver of a car. Light clothing covers the block which is set 18-inches behind the glass. A distance of 10 feet is measured from the center of the glass to the muzzle.
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