Ep 8. Dodge a Bullet

In season 10 episode 8 of MythBusters, titled "Dodge a Bullet," the team takes on the challenge of testing whether it is possible to dodge a bullet in real life. The hosts, Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman, explore a range of different scenarios, from Hollywood-style shootouts to real-life gun altercations, to determine how feasible it is to avoid being hit by a bullet.

First, Adam and Jamie investigate the typical movie trope of dodging bullets by running or jumping. They set up a series of tests in which Adam runs across a field while Jamie shoots at him with a paintball gun. The results are surprising, as they find that running in zigzag patterns or jumping actually makes it more difficult to avoid getting hit by a bullet. They also conduct an experiment in which they simulate a shoot-out, with one person being the shooter and the other trying to dodge the bullets. This test provides some interesting insights into the reactions of the shooter and the dodger, and how the environment and other factors can impact their ability to hit or evade their target.

Next, the team examines real-world scenarios in which people have successfully dodged bullets in the past. They explore the case of a Colombian politician who narrowly avoided assassination by ducking under a desk, as well as the story of a Vietnam War soldier who was able to dodge enemy fire by crawling along the ground. Through these examples, they gain a deeper understanding of the factors that can make dodging a bullet possible, such as having cover or being able to see the shooter's position.

Finally, the hosts conduct a series of tests using high-speed cameras to analyze the trajectory of bullets and the movements of potential targets. They also explore the effectiveness of different types of cover, such as cars and walls, in providing protection from gunfire. Through these experiments, they hope to gain a better understanding of the physics behind bullet trajectories and the limits of human ability to dodge bullets in various types of scenarios.

As always, the hosts approach their tests with humor, enthusiasm, and a willingness to challenge their own assumptions and biases. They are aided by a team of experts in ballistics, weapons, and stunt work who provide valuable technical knowledge and real-world experience. By the end of the episode, the team has amassed a wealth of data and insights that shed light on the question of whether it is possible to dodge a bullet. Whether you're a fan of action movies, fascinated by the science of ballistics, or just enjoy watching entertaining and informative experiments, "Dodge a Bullet" is sure to satisfy.