Speer LE Gold Dot 223 64gr Ballistics Gel Test & Results

[Mrgunsngear]

Just finished up the testing of the 223 Speer Gold Dot 64gr soft point round. Here's a summary of the conditions and results.

Test conditions:
-16'' PSA mid-length chrome lined barrel
-70 degrees
-300 feet above sea level
-Test rounds fired from 7 feet
-FBI spec Clear Ballistics gel block (more on this below)
-4 layers of denim

Results:
-2,753 fps average velocity
-1076 ft/lbs energy
-18.5'' penetration
-Maximum expansion measurement: 0.48''
-Minimum expansion measurement: 0.35''
-Retained weight: 54 grains


The manufacture of the gel block, Clear Ballistics, claims their gel meets FBI specs for testing. I calibrate my gel per their specs prior to testing and use 4 layers of denim per IWBA protocol.

However, by no means am I saying this test is a substitute for the great work industry professionals like Dr. Roberts and others do. I'm just a shooter that likes to learn about the products I use.

Here's the video showing the test, the permanent cavity, and a discussion of the results:

64gr 223 Gold Dot HD Video Test Link

I welcome your thoughts/recommendations for future testing.

 

[stevedscross]

good stuff thanks for the post. Glad to see that I am not the only one who tests bullets. Though I have never fired that specific load I am aware of it, and what it is suppose to do. Do you plan on using it for a duty load, hunting, home protection or just like to shoot stuff with bullets? From the research i have done they are marketing the .223 Gold Dot for a duty load to be able to shoot through car windows and such. I wonder what the penetration would be after fired through auto glass. If I were to make a guess based on what you posted and my own research our of your rifle and into a gel block I would bet on about 11-15 inches penetration which seems about right for the purpose of the load.