09-01-2011, 11:46 PM
Using the expression KE Density = (1/2)MV²/(πR²) (where M=mass, V=velocity, and R=bullet radius) I find that the Grendel is about 100 ft/sec shy of matching the 7.62X51 M80 potential for perforating steel plates for lead-core FMJ bullets in the 100 - 120 grain class.
Replacing all or part of the lead with a hardened pin as is done with the M855A1 would change this to the extent that the Grendel with a 20-24 inch barrel might just be able to perforate the same thickness of steel as the M855A1.
Of course we would need to test. Before that, someone needs to design and fabricate steel-cored 6.5 bullets in the 100-120 gr weight range, develop safe loads and verify with load development testing. Then, at last, we could see if the Grendel might do as well.
Any takers on bullet fab?
In the meantime, I'm happy with knowing that the Grendel is close and maybe good enough!
Replacing all or part of the lead with a hardened pin as is done with the M855A1 would change this to the extent that the Grendel with a 20-24 inch barrel might just be able to perforate the same thickness of steel as the M855A1.
Of course we would need to test. Before that, someone needs to design and fabricate steel-cored 6.5 bullets in the 100-120 gr weight range, develop safe loads and verify with load development testing. Then, at last, we could see if the Grendel might do as well.
Any takers on bullet fab?
In the meantime, I'm happy with knowing that the Grendel is close and maybe good enough!