Guns Underwater: The Impact of Firing a Gun in Water

Introduction

Did you know you can search online for 'FIRING A GUN UNDERWATER' and find countless videos demonstrating this intriguing concept? The phenomenon of a gun firing underwater involves a complex interplay of physics and the properties of water. Whether you're curious about the effects on different types of firearms or simply want to witness this curious experiment, this article will take you through the physics and intricacies of what happens when a gun is fired underwater.

Effects on Different Types of Guns

The effects of firing a gun underwater depend on the type and caliber of the firearm. For instance, a .45ACP 1911 handgun shows a dramatic decrease in the projectile's range and velocity. In a swimming pool, about 6–7 feet deep, the bullet traveled only about 5 feet before dropping in an arc. This highlights how the denser environment of water drastically slows down the bullet compared to air.

Bullets fired from air into water are essentially exhausted within a very short distance. For handguns, this distance is less than 6 feet, and for rifles, it can be even shorter. MythBusters conducted tests on various firearm calibers, revealing that the water in the barrel could cause the gun to explode due to a spike in pressure when the powder ignites. This makes it evident that firing a firearm underwater is not the best idea since it could lead to catastrophic damage.

Exploding Guns in Water

A high likelihood exists that a gun will explode when fired underwater. The water obstructs the barrel, causing the pressure in the barrel to rise significantly as the powder ignites. It's worth noting that there are specialized firearms designed for underwater operation, but their performance in such conditions is still limited. Regular firearms are not engineered for underwater use and suffering the dense and restrictive nature of water can result in irreparable damage to the firearm.

Some videos and tests show that bullets fired into a water tank can quickly lose their velocity. For instance, a bullet that travels 50 yards in air may only make it a few feet in water. Additionally, the denser water can cause the barrel to swell or even rupture due to increased pressure. This explains why most firearms can only withstand a few underwater firings before risk of damage increases significantly.

Barrel and Pressure Considerations

Water being about 830 times denser than air means that a bullet will slow down much faster in water than in air. This results in a much shorter range and less kinetic energy being delivered to the target. Muzzle velocity is not greatly affected, but the bullet's movement in water is drastically different. Bullets will not only slow down but also drop very quickly in water, making them almost ineffective beyond a few feet.

Moreover, firing a gun underwater can lead to dangerous pressure spikes. Even if a firearm is designed to handle a few firings, the increased density of water can cause more strain, making it a risky activity. For safety reasons, it is recommended to use a remote firing setup to minimize direct contact with the firearm in the water.

Conclusion

In conclusion, firing a gun underwater is a fascinating, yet potentially dangerous, experience. The physics of water cause significant changes in the performance of firearms, making them far less effective than in air. Whether for entertainment, testing, or practical underwater usage, understanding the limitations and risks associated with firing guns in water is crucial. It's always best to test underwater firearms with caution and under controlled environments to avoid damage and ensure safety.

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