Ballistic Gel

How do you accurately test the affect that ballistics have on a flesh like substance?

One answer to the problem is to create ballistic gel, which mimics human flesh. Another solution is to use a dead pig as their bodies are similar to humans for testing purposes. Ballistic gel is the more practical solution.

Process for original ballistics gel came from: http://www.myscienceproject.org/gelatin.html
We then altered as we saw fit and used our finished product in our own way.

Step 1: Ingredients & Setup

Start making ballistics gel by getting some knox gelatin mix as shown in the first image. You will need an 8 oz. of water per 1 oz. of powder. For any kind of practical purposes and a good starting batch I would recommend mixing 8 oz. of powder with 2 quarts of water (64 oz.). The second image shows the powder in plastic bowl. I recommend that you put the water in the container of your choice before the powder. If you do not put the water in first you will get many more lumps of powder in it.

Step 2: Mix It Up & Chill It Out!

Once the gelatin has been added to the water you must mix it with one of your hands. Break up some of the clumps of gelatin with your fingers to make sure you get a good mixture. You then put your new concoction in the refrigerator to chill and hydrate.

Step 3: Melt It Down

Once chilled and hydrated, the gelatin needs to be melted down. Setting the gelatin over a pan of water will suffice. While the gelatin is melting it should also be stirred properly to reduce the amount of air getting trapped in the gelatin.

Step 4: Mold & Chill

A mold of any kind can be used. Simply spray your container cooking spray or other non-stick solution. After setting the gelatin in a mold simply chill for thirty-six hours.

Step 5: Completion!

After chilling you have officially completed making ballistics gel. Our purpose was to use the gel for a bullet test but I am sure there are many uses others can think of!