Penetration in ballistic gel (KPY Ballistic Program)
Lead 6 @ 1300 fps @ 40 yds = 1.7"
HS 6 @ 1100 fps @ 40 yds = 1.8"
The HS penetration advantage is actually greater than predicted since it does not deform like lead does. The program assumes no deformation, but lead does deform, and flattened pellets do not penetrate as well as spherical ones.