However, gelatin can be a tricky substance to work with.
So we developed a DIY ballistic gelatin recipe and cooking process that approximates the FBI standardized gelatin.
It isnt standardized, but it works.
Heres our how to on making your own ballistic gelatin.
Ballistic Gel Background
On the GunSpot YouTube channel, we like to test bullets in ballistic gelatin.
A standard FBI test-sized ballistic gelatin block can be difficult and expensive to make from specialized ordnance gelatin.
Then there is the matter of refrigeration to a specific temperature and calibration.
If you leave it out more than a few minutes, it will no longer be within calibration specifications.
As you’re free to imagine, the costs for all this can add up quickly.
Will it be the same exact consistency?
Youll be able to visually see its expansion and how it handles passing through barriers before hitting the target.
This gel and the recipe both work well for us, so here is how we do it.
The only item you will more than likely need to buy is the 16x6x6 mold for the gel.
We got ours at Midway USA for $69.99.
you might also make your own mold with some wood and plastic wrap as a liner.
The other item you will need to buy is the gelatin itself.
We got a 10-lb.
pack of unflavored, un-colored gelatin from Walmart.com for $89.85.
After that, you are going to be all set.
Like with any food dish, there are different takes on the proper mixing of gelatin for testing.
None of them will deliver gelatin densities that perfectly match the FBI standard.
Hornadys website states the FBI mix is the final one in the above list.
Something to note is its all based on weight.
The ounces are not fluid ounces (fl.
), which is a measurement volume.
The ounces used is oz.
The third recipe uses pounds, of course.
Our Water: Gelatin Ratio
The ballistic gelatin mold that we got can create an 18-lb.
So, its a bit different than the formula for a 20-lb.
Lets start with the water, of which we do 9 liters.
Then we weighed out 2 liters of gelatin powder.
Combining 2 liters of gelatin and 9 liters of water matched our gelatin-to-water ratio goal.
It also is the volume that fills our mold perfectly.
Then, turn on your range top and start heating up the water.
But, it also mixes smoother if its hotter.
Many suggest warm water is best.
We bring ours to a light boil, almost more of a simmer.
Then we pour the water into a big mixing pot.
A clean 5-gallon bucket could work, too.
From there we measure out our gelatin and pour it into the water in the big pot.
Its important to add the gel last, adding it to the water.
This keeps the mixture smoother.
Also, pour both the water and the gelatin slowly.
This will keep the clumps smaller and reduce the likelihood of adding in air.
After that, its time to stir.
For this, you want a long mixing spoor or something like it.
Again, trying not to create any bubbles.
when you land a good mix, its time to get it into the mold.
From here you should probably coat the mold in non-stick cooking spray.
Trust me, if you dont its hard to get the block out.
The next step is to pour the mixture into the mold, again making sure to do so slowly.
Once its all in its time to set it in the refrigerator.
Now its just time to wait.
Let the mixture set in the refrigerator overnight.
The mixture will have to get down to 36 degrees Fahrenheit for it to solidify.
By the next day, the block should be set up.
Now its time to shoot it.
If its hot outside, you should shoot it very quickly, too.
The faster you shoot it, the fairer the results will be in your test.
Another option to consider is synthetic ballistic gelatin options from Clear Ballistics.
The company manufactures temperature-stable gelatin blocks that mimic the density and performance of FBI-calibrated 10% ordnance gelatin.
Further, the Clear Ballistics options are re-useable.
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