Smyth Busters: Will Excess Bullet Setback Blow Up Your Gun?
This video from Brownells Gun Techs™ Caleb and Steve, "The Smyth Busters," investigates the old reloader's warning about excessive bullet setback causing firearm explosions. They explain that bullet setback, where a bullet is pushed deeper into a cartridge case, can compress the powder charge, leading to dangerous pressure spikes. While most firearms are built with pressure safety margins, consistently exceeding normal maximums can cause accelerated wear or even catastrophic failure, a "KA-BOOM." The risk is amplified with maximum-pressure handloads and +P ammunition, and the issue isn't limited to pistols, as rifle cartridges are also susceptible. Bullet setback can also cause case swelling, leading to feeding problems, which is particularly concerning during self-defense situations. The video confirms that this is not a myth, and excess bullet setback can indeed damage guns.
