How About a Realistic Test???

[DogBonz]

We all know that a “heavy clothing” test for a hollow point is 4 layers of denim. But how realistic is this test. When was the last time an attacker wore 2 denim jackets over a denim vest, over a pair of overalls. I know that this is supposed to represent a “worst case scenario”, but I don’t see that as a reality. In fact I started thinking that some of the more popular materials that we wear today might play more havoc on a hollow-point’s cavity.
This thought was sparked because it was really cold this morning, but I didn’t see any denim jackets. What I did see was a lot of fleece, Gore-Tex, Microfiber, bubble jackets, leather bombers and wool overcoats. I feel that just as you should train as you fight, because you will fight as you were trained, our rounds should be tested against realistic “barriers” that might impede their performance. Instead or 4 layers, why not layer the way that most folks wear clothes. How about a undershirt, a heavy shirt, a fleece or hoodie, and a Gore-Tex shell. Or and mixture of garments for that matter.
Someone may have already brought this up or may have tested different rounds against these fabrics, but I did a quick search and did not find anything, so I felt it my duty to bring it up, and stir up a little controversy.

 

[Biker]

I quit trying to second guess what people who need to be shot are going to be wearing. In warm weather, I carry 225 gr Silvertips in my Taurus 450 and in the winter, I carry 260 gr SWC handloads. Oughta do...

Biker

 

[ksnecktieman]

IMHO, The reason for four layers of denim would be repeatability, and comprehension. It is a "standard for comparison", not a real life expectation.
If you say one layer of gore tex, and one of down, and one of cotton, you will have so many variables the test means nothing. for example, is the gore tex military? ll bean? cabellas? Is the cotton a t shirt, a dress shirt, or a sweat shirt.

I see it as a test that can be easily reproduced, and understood. While it may not be perfect, it would seem that a bullet that functions porperly against one material should do so against another. Do you want to have to get a dictionary sized book to get information. To test all materials that is what you would have.

 

[Big Calhoun]

Personally, I would think you'd take any 'barriers' into consideration and aim appropriately. Being in Texas, I think the worst I'd have to contend with is leather jacket.