Journal Published Online: 01 July 1986
Volume 31, Issue 3

Winchester Silvertip® Ammunition—A Study in Ordnance Gelatin

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

This study of Winchester Silvertip® hollow point ammunition measures bullet velocity from production handguns and evaluates performance in ordnance gelation. Depth of penetration, size and shape of the temporary cavity, degree of radial fissuring along the missile track, and bullet expansion after impact are compared to nonhollow point ammunition of similar caliber. It is clear that hollow point bullets of this type create greater disturbance upon impact with tissue simulant than common commercial solid round nose ammunition as measured by temporary cavity size and radial fissuring. However, for all types of handgun ammunition there is a poor predictive correlation of radial fissuring with instantaneous temporary cavity size. Hollow point performance can be modified by various factors such as angle of incidence relative to target surface and prior deformation of the bullet tip. The elemental composition of bullet jackets and cores is not uniform throughout this product line.

Author Information

Ragsdale, BD
Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, Washington, DC
Josselson, AR
Division of Forensic Pathology, Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, Washington, DC
Pages: 14
Price: $25.00
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Details
Stock #: JFS11095J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS11095J