The three‐mode theory due to Mindlin and McNiven, [J. Appl. Mech. 27, 145–151 (1960)] governing axisymmetric motions in a circular rod, is appraised by comparing responses predicted by it with experimental data obtained by Miklowitz and Nisewanger [J. Appl. Mech. 24, 240–244 (1957)]. The problem studied involves a semi‐infinite rod, made of 24S‐T aluminum alloy, subjected to pressure applied to the end of the rod. The two sets of responses are compared at various stations along the rod. To make the comparisons meaningful, it was necessary to recognize that the pressure applied experimentally had a finite rise time, however short; to make an estimate from the responses of what that rise time might be; and then apply this time distribution of pressure in evaluating the theoretical responses. Comparison shows that the Mindlin–McNiven theory predicts the responses at stations farther than one diameter from the end of the rod. The matching is accurate not only at the head of the impulse but at points representing large times following the first disturbance.