Exploring the Highest Muzzle Velocities in Firearms: An Analysis

When considering the highest muzzle velocities achieved by firearms, it is essential to delve into the performance of various calibers and ammunition types. This article explores the capabilities of specific gun types and ammunition, highlighting the .22-284, 220 Swift, and .17 caliber cartridges, as well as the .22 Eargesplitten Loudenboomer. Additionally, we will touch on the advancements and limitations in achieving higher muzzle velocities.

The .22-284: A High-Velocity Cartridge

The .22-284 is a well-known cartridge that achieves an impressive muzzle velocity of 6585 feet per second (fps) when using 50 grains of 4227 powder. This demonstrates the substantial power this cartridge can deliver, particularly with 15-grain bullets, which can travel up to 5485 fps when using 54 grains of the same powder. Notably, the .22-284 has shown remarkable accuracy, posting two-inch groups at 100 yards.

Tank Guns and Their High Velocity Achievements

Among operational weapons, tank guns often achieve muzzle velocities around 1800 meters per second (m/s), or approximately 5906 feet per second (fps). This is the result of using advanced ammunition and 120mm/L55 guns, which have been refined over time. It's worth noting that there are no other kinetic projectiles in operational service that surpass this velocity.

The .220 Swift and .223 WSSM are also noteworthy in terms of velocity, with the former achieving nearly 4700 fps and the latter reaching about 4500 fps with lighter bullet loads. The .300 Weatherby, a larger caliber, has also shown impressive speeds around 4200 fps with light loads.

Barriers to Achieving Higher Velocities

Despite the advancements in technology, achieving average velocities of 3000 fps in practical big game hunting rifles is challenging. This is due to the limitations in smokeless powders, which generally do not expand much faster than 1600 m/s when ignited. Another significant problem is barrel throat erosion, which occurs due to the large amounts of propellant needed to exceed 1000 fps.

A notable exception to these limitations is the .22 Eargesplitten Loudenboomer, a necked-down .378 Weatherby cartridge. Despite its experimental nature, it struggled to exceed 1400 m/s, let alone its theorized 1500 m/s. Similarly, no necked-down cartridges from .50 BMG have been reported to achieve higher velocities.

Experimental Projects: Launching Projectiles into Orbit

Some of the most experimental and ambitious projects in the pursuit of high muzzle velocities involved large-caliber cannon. Gerald Bull, a renowned engineer, experimented with powerful cannon designed for Project HARP on Barbados. This project achieved muzzle velocities over 3000 m/s. Bull's tragic assassination likely prevented this technology from reaching its full potential.

Weapons designed to launch projectiles into orbit are typically highly immobile and vulnerable, making them impractical for general military or sporting use. Only those with megalomaniacal ambitions, such as Adolf Hitler and Saddam Hussein, have exhibited serious interest in such projects.

Maximizing Current Velocities

As of now, the highest gas speeds for gunpowder are believed to be around 5000 fps. Breaking current muzzle velocity records will likely require significant advancements in technology. However, it remains a fascinating pursuit for both scientists and firearm enthusiasts.