Surviving the Unthinkable: Could You Withstand M16 Bullets to the Chest?

Imagine the unimaginable scenario of withstanding several shots to the chest from an M16. History and medical reports reveal instances where individuals have endured astonishingly incredible survival stories. The M16, a weapon favored in modern combat due to its light weight and rapid fire capabilities, can deliver a powerful wallop that often results in fatal injuries. However, the possibility of survival exists, especially under certain conditions. In this article, we will delve into the anatomy of such a survival scenario and examine the factors that contribute to such an extraordinary outcome.

Killing the Myth: M16 Survival Rates

The rumor has it that surviving M16 rounds to the chest is next to impossible. However, evidence suggests that under specific circumstances, the chance of survival is not as bleak as commonly perceived. A real-world example involves a survival story where an individual managed to rescue three people despite being hit by numerous rounds, including those from an AK47. According to accounts, the individual managed to save lives by running and continuing to fight his way through the battlefield, even after sustaining severe injuries. Despite this mythical narrative, one must consider the possibility that other firearms, such as the SKS or 7.62 by 39 caliber, could have inflicted similar injuries.

Bullet Impact and Survival Chances

A direct shot to the chest from an M16 at close range (below 200 meters) typically results in fatal damage due to the high velocity and the potential for substantial internal injury. The bullet can create a grapefruit-sized radius of damage upon impact, particularly when it strikes a rib, which can disperse the energy and cause additional harm. Beyond 200 meters, the chances of survival increase as the damage and lethality of the impact diminish. It is possible for three M16 rounds to pass through the same lung or enter through the same wound, which can significantly alter the outcome.

Factors Influencing Survival

The survivability of a chest shot from an M16 depends on several interrelated factors. These include the distance from the target, the type and weight of the bullet, and the rifling of the barrel. A person with a professional background in trauma medicine or a training in combat survival might have a higher chance of survival due to their understanding of first aid and effective medical response. The weight and caliber of the M16 round play a crucial role, as the 5.56 NATO rounds, like those from an M16, have a lower lethality rate at close range compared to older rounds like the 7.62 by 39, used in the AK47.

Survival Possibilities and Strategies

According to emergency room (ER) reports, individuals have virtually never been documented to survive multiple M16 chest shots. However, this is often attributed to combat zones where the distance from the shooter is typically below 200 meters. In cases where survival has occurred, it can be attributed to the significant distance from the shooter, potentially beyond 200 meters, where the lethality of the M16 rounds is greatly reduced.

Survival may also depend on the specific points of impact. For instance, three lung shots with 62g Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) bullets hit at 200 meters can be survivable if the person receives immediate medical attention. In contrast, three old Vietnam-era 55g FMJ bullets could still be lethal out to 600 meters, highlighting the importance of the type and weight of the bullet.

Moreover, the strategy of aiming for the center mass (the target area in the middle of the body) before potentially targeting the head maximizes the chance of survival. This is often referred to as the “Two to the chest, the face gets the rest” principle, which emphasizes the importance of quick, effective, and precise shots. While survival remains highly unlikely, a well-trained individual with the opportunity to flee to a safe area or receive immediate medical attention may increase their chances of survival.

In conclusion, while the possibility of surviving multiple M16 chest shots is rare and challenging, specific conditions and strategic approaches can increase the odds of survival. Understanding the factors that influence a survival scenario is crucial for improving one's chances in a life-threatening situation.