Caliber question?
 

Sorry if not posting this in the correct section...

I am helping a friend with a video-shoot, where we need to effectively "blow up" small blocks of plaster (say 6" x 6") while filming with high-speed video equipment.

To save from running out of test blocks, what would be the best caliber and bullet-type combo to essentially create the most explosive effect on these plaster blocks? My original thought was using a .243 with a high speed plastic-tip round. Or would something like a .410 or 12 gauge slug create more surface damage?

I have a variety of rifle or hand gun loads/calibers that we could use.

Any thoughts?

Thank you!!

Why do you want to crush plaster blocks, what are they supposed to represent?

I am not sure what's the interest of shooting plaster blocks without testing for yourself what works best. Is the point to record the "blowing up" of stuff instead of showcasing how different calibers perform. Why don't you shoot them with different calibers regarding bullet weight and speed and record them all. Then try water jugs, concrete blocks, and metal plates.

I suspect there are thing we are not being told. Videos of objects being, his words not mine, "blown up" by bullets and then winding up on U -Tube or some other repository for nonsense do not do anything good for gun owners.

Ok guys, sorry for trying to ask a serious question. I am middle-aged successful businessman and gun owner, helping a friend/business owner with a professional video shoot.

For those that want to be serious here, the plaster blocks are representing letters that need to "explode" for the purpose of their commercial or pictorial. (nowhere in final pictures/commercial product will there be a gun, or even a gunshot)

In a previous run, black powder was poured into drilled holes to create the effect. I am not sure if the black powder did not provide the entire effect they were looking for, or just trying something different, or no direct access to black powder. The trial here could be a complete failure, but was hoping that other firearm/ammunition enthusiasts might have some insight on what might work best.

This is an open forum, so feel free to mock the question and I will certainly be happy to spend my time elsewhere.

There are few calibers that will do more "damage" at close range than a 12 gauge slug !!!

How's that ?

The problem you are going to have is the "explosive" effect which you seem to be seeking. Bullets will tend to punch through a plaster block rather than creating what I feel you are looking for. They may crack up quite a bit but I am thinking you are looking more for that shattering effect rather than a punch through. What you COULD do it find a tannerite target http://www.tannerite.com/ or a small jar of it and load the plaster block with a small charge of that and THEN shoot it. You will get a nice explosive breakage for filming in slow motion.

leeklm, had you explained your motives in the original post there wouldn't have been any question about the motive.

I have a friend in Hollywood who is a prop master for movies. They deal with all aspects of things on the set along with some special effects and this sounds alot like things he deals with. Must be a fun job.
SH54 you have a lot of all things guns knowledge.:happy0001:

Valid point. In my haste, i see that the initial post left much to the imagination...