Question about 12 ga. slugs

[Socalman]

I was watching something on the American History Channel last night and they were showing how a .50 caliber into the block would stop a car.

Just wondering if anyone knows, for sure, would a 1 1/4 oz slug from a 12 ga. into the block stop the engine? I am aware that the .50 will be moving at a much higher rate than the slug, I just don't know the answer.

[j15w]

It's iffy. I would say probably not. I believe it's about 2500 ft-lbs vs. about 13000 ft-lbs in energy.

I've shot cast iron blocks with 1oz foster slugs and had some that penetrate (actually more like crack) but most don't. I've also had slugs fail to penetrate an air compressor tank (left a big dent, though). There are also "armored" slugs available that may perform better... Haven't tried those yet. Standard lead slugs are very soft and will deform before they penetrate.

Also keep in mind that slugs lose a LOT of punch the farther out you get, and they will have to work harder (and potentially deform in the process) to get through all the other stuff before it hits the block.

In short, I wouldn't bet your life on it.

[duckman1]

It will punch right thru the driver door, almost as good.

[target_shot]

...or the front windshield.....

[snowdog650]

http://www.brennekeusa.com/cms/max-barrier-pen.html

[fawndog]

Slugs barely embed themselves into a log. I'd say yes only if you were able to hit a timing componet (distributor or the like).

[Calif Hunter]

Generally, I think velocity has a lot to do with penetrating metal, along with bullet construction, so slugs usually fail on both counts when it comes to how much metal they will punch through.

[MrSam]

Sure will, if it's aimed at the driver.

Disclaimer: I don't encourage or condone shooting drivers...

[Thanatos2203]

Brenneke yes, because they are designed for deeper penetration. Any Foster style slug is just not going to be able to retain its structure when trying to get through metal objects of varying density.

[Lor]

Let's see... A 600 too 800 gr steel core round with a muzzle velocity close to 3,000 fps vs a 1 1/4 oz 12 ga lead slug @ 1,500 fps... Highly doubtful...