The BEST .380 ACP AMMO?

Published on October 28, 2022
Duration: 12:07

This comprehensive review from Tools&Targets analyzes the performance of three top .380 ACP ammunition loads: Federal Premium Hydra-Shok Deep, Underwood Xtreme Penetrator, and Winchester 95-grain FMJ. Using a Ruger LCP Max and standardized ballistic gel testing through a heavy clothing barrier, the analysis provides objective data on velocity, penetration, and expansion. The expert assessment highlights the practical implications for concealed carry and self-defense scenarios.

Quick Summary

Expert analysis of .380 ACP ammunition reveals that while premium hollow points are often favored, the Winchester 95-grain FMJ provided superior penetration (19 inches) through heavy clothing barriers in ballistic gel tests, outperforming rounds like the Federal Hydra-Shok Deep which failed to expand. The Underwood Xtreme Penetrator achieved the deepest penetration at 20.5 inches.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Top 3 Picks
  2. 00:47Federal Premium Hydra-Shok Deep
  3. 01:04Underwood Xtreme Penetrator
  4. 01:27Winchester 95 Grain FMJ
  5. 01:55Test Setup and Firearm
  6. 02:24Chronograph Testing
  7. 04:13Ballistic Gel Testing
  8. 06:08Gel Analysis and Measurements
  9. 08:38Projectile Examination
  10. 10:09Final Conclusions

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top .380 ACP ammunition choices for self-defense based on recent testing?

The top .380 ACP ammunition choices identified include the Federal Premium Hydra-Shok Deep, Underwood Xtreme Penetrator, and Winchester 95-grain FMJ. These were selected based on performance in ballistic gel tests simulating self-defense scenarios.

How did the Winchester 95-grain FMJ perform in ballistic gel tests compared to premium hollow points?

The Winchester 95-grain FMJ demonstrated excellent penetration, reaching 19 inches in ballistic gel through a heavy clothing barrier. This performance was notable as premium hollow-point rounds tested failed to expand under the same conditions.

What were the key findings regarding bullet expansion for .380 ACP ammunition?

Testing revealed that premium .380 ACP defensive rounds like the Federal Hydra-Shok Deep often failed to expand when fired through heavy clothing barriers, indicating that penetration might be a more critical factor for this caliber.

Which .380 ACP round offered the deepest penetration in the test?

The Underwood Xtreme Penetrator, a 90-grain solid copper projectile, achieved the deepest penetration in the ballistic gel test, reaching 20.5 inches. This is attributed to its fluted design, which maximizes penetration without relying on expansion.

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