How deep does a 5.56 NATO penetrate Drywall (Gypsum)?

At the muzzle, a representative 5.56 NATO load penetrates approximately 387 mm (15.2 inches) into drywall (gypsum).

What is the impact energy of a 5.56 NATO?

This 5.56 NATO load carries about 1693 joules (1249 ft-lb) at the muzzle.

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Will a 5.56 NATO Penetrate Drywall (Gypsum)?

Yes — defeats a 13 mm drywall (gypsum) barrier

Penetration depth

387 mm (15.2″)

Impact velocity

920 m/s (3018 fps)

Muzzle energy

1693 J (1249 ft-lb)

Bullet behaviour

Intact

Fired at the muzzle, a representative 5.56 NATO load (4 g, FMJ, 920 m/s) reaches roughly 387 mm (15.2 inches) into drywall (gypsum). That is enough to defeat a typical barrier of this material — treat anything behind it as exposed.

About Drywall (Gypsum)

One sheet of interior drywall is ~13 mm; a wall is two sheets and a gap.

5.56 NATO against other materials

Material	Depth (mm)	Depth (in)
Red Brick	193 mm	7.6″
Concrete	175 mm	6.9″
Tempered Glass	29 mm	1.1″
Steel A36	14 mm	0.6″
Steel AR500	8 mm	0.3″

Run your own numbers in the calculator →

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Will a 5.56 NATO Penetrate Drywall (Gypsum)?

About Drywall (Gypsum)

5.56 NATO against other materials

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