How deep does a .380 ACP penetrate Ballistic Gel 10%?

At the muzzle, a representative .380 ACP load penetrates approximately 509 mm (20.0 inches) into ballistic gel 10%.

What is the impact energy of a .380 ACP?

This .380 ACP load carries about 261 joules (192 ft-lb) at the muzzle.

Over-penetrates (20″ vs 18″ FBI maximum)

Penetration depth

509 mm (20.0″)

Impact velocity

290 m/s (951 fps)

Muzzle energy

261 J (192 ft-lb)

Bullet behaviour

Intact

Fired at the muzzle, a representative .380 ACP load (6.2 g, FMJ, 290 m/s) reaches roughly 509 mm (20.0 inches) into ballistic gel 10%.

10% ordnance gelatin is the FBI reference medium; 12–18 in (305–457 mm) is the accepted penetration window.