AFTE Store - The Forensic Implications of the Ruger/PolyCase ARX Polymer-Copper Matrix Bullets

A recently introduced self-defense ammunition initially sold as Ruger ARX, now sold under the brand name Inceptor, is being seen on the market. This frangible bullet is produced using an injection-molding technique with a polymer-copper matrix. The projectile is molded with flutes to resemble the shape and to simulate the properties of a boat propeller. According to the manufacturer, the design and material will increase penetration and stopping power while reducing the risk of the bullet perforating through multiple barriers. The 9mm Luger Ruger ARX cartridge was compared to two common cartridges: Speer Gold Dot and Federal HST. Using a Ruger P-89 handgun to produce test fires, each cartridge type was fired into a water recovery tank and at a metal barrier. The results of the microscopic comparisons showed that the general rifling characteristics between the test-fired bullets were consistent, but the ARX bullets were unable to carry over any individual characteristics, most likely due to the nature of the bullet material. Although the ARX bullets did not exhibit any individual characteristics, they did produce an unusual feature in automotive metal. When the ARX was fired at a metal barrier, the bullet consistently produced hexagon-like shaped entrance and exit holes rather than the typical circular/elliptical hole that is expected when a traditional bullet orthogonally pierces a metal barrier. This information may help firearm examiners better understand the interaction that the ARX bullet has with the bore of a firearm and with metal barriers.