Frequently Asked Questions

Clear Ballistics gel is a proprietary synthetic ballistic gelatin formulated from mineral oil and polymer. It is completely non-toxic, odorless, and reusable — unlike traditional organic gelatin which requires refrigeration and degrades quickly.

10% gel is calibrated to the FBI standard and is used for testing handgun rounds, pistol-caliber carbines, and most personal defense ammunition. 20% gel is calibrated to the NATO standard and is used for testing rifle rounds and higher-velocity projectiles. If you're unsure, start with 10%.

Yes. Every batch is tested to the FBI BB calibration specification — a 590-grain steel BB fired at 590 ± 15 fps must penetrate 3.35 ± 0.30 inches (85 ± 8mm) into the block. A calibration card ships with every gel order confirming your batch passes.

No. One of the key advantages of Clear Ballistics synthetic gel over organic gelatin is that it requires no refrigeration. It is shelf-stable at room temperature indefinitely.

Up to 10 times with proper technique. The gel can be remelted and reformed in the original mold after each use.

Use a dedicated gel cooker (we sell these) or a roaster oven at 220–240°F. Never microwave the gel. Place bullet fragments and recovered projectiles aside before remelting. Pour into your mold and allow to cool fully before testing again.

No. Mixing gel percentages will alter the calibration. Remelt each formulation separately and keep them clearly labeled.

UV exposure, repeated high-temperature remelts, and contamination from certain bullet materials (especially lead) can degrade clarity and calibration over time. After approximately 10 uses or significant discoloration, we recommend a fresh block.

Most orders ship the next business day from our warehouse in Greenville, SC. You'll receive a tracking number by email once your order ships.

Yes. We ship worldwide via UPS, DHL, and sea freight for large orders. International customers are responsible for any customs duties and taxes. Please allow additional transit time.

We accept returns within 30 days of delivery for a full refund minus a 10% restocking fee. Between 30–60 days, exchanges are accepted. After 60 days, all sales are final. See our Shipping & Returns page for full details.

Yes. We offer volume pricing for law enforcement agencies, training facilities, distributors, and media companies. Submit a quote request or call us at 1-888-271-0461.

Yes, for qualifying B2B customers. Please submit a quote request with your company information and we will review your account for Net 30 approval.

We offer blocks in several sizes — from compact blocks for pistol testing to full SWAT and Long Range blocks for rifle and extreme penetration testing. Visit our Blocks page for all current dimensions and specs.

Yes — a dedicated gel cooker or roaster oven is required. We sell cookers in 5-lb and 18-lb capacities. A standard kitchen oven is not recommended due to uneven heat distribution.

Yes. We sell ballistic gel dye that allows you to colorize your blocks. This is popular for visual wound channel analysis and demonstration purposes. Dye does not affect calibration.