9MM vs .380 ACP!...Hornady Critical Defense AMMO Test.

This review details a ballistic gel test of Seismic Ammo's 9mm Quakemaker +M 185-grain rounds. The test, conducted by an experienced firearms instructor, evaluated performance through a heavy clothing barrier using a Ruger PC Charger and an HK SP5. The results indicated significant tumbling and a complete failure of the projectile to expand, leading to poor penetration performance and a negative recommendation for self-defense.

This review details a ballistic gel test of Hornady Critical Defense .38 Special +P 110 grain ammunition fired from 2-inch and 3-inch barrels. The testing instructor, demonstrating significant expertise, found the +P rounds produced mild recoil comparable to standard pressure .38 Special, with the primary difference being a louder report. Performance in gel showed good expansion and penetration within expected self-defense parameters.

This video provides an expert-level ballistic gel test of Liberty Ammunition's 9mm SPIKE self-defense round. The test, conducted by an experienced firearms tester, utilizes professional equipment like a LabRadar chronograph and standardized gel blocks with heavy clothing barriers. The SPIKE round demonstrated impressive velocity from both short (Canik Mete MC9) and long (Ruger PC Charger) barrels, leading to significant temporary cavity formation and fragmentation upon impact, with penetration depths around 14.5 inches.

This video provides an expert-level ballistic gel test of Underwood Xtreme Defender 9mm ammunition, specifically the 68-grain +P and 90-grain +P+ variants. The host, demonstrating high authority through detailed analysis and professional equipment, evaluates their terminal performance fired from an HK SP5 with an 8.9-inch barrel. The test highlights extreme velocities and deep penetration, offering valuable data for self-defense ammunition selection.

This video from Kentucky Ballistics delves into the history and performance of Winchester's controversial Black Talon ammunition. Host Scott debunks myths about the ammunition being banned, explaining it was voluntarily withdrawn from the civilian market due to public pressure. Through extensive ballistic gel and body armor testing across various calibers, the video demonstrates the actual penetration and expansion capabilities of Black Talons, concluding they were not armor-piercing for handguns and were later rebranded as Ranger SXT.

This comprehensive ballistic gel test compares the new Federal Punch 115gr and the established 124gr 9mm Luger self-defense rounds. Conducted by the Tools&Targets host, the test utilized a Canik Mete MC9 and a heavy clothing barrier. The 124gr variant demonstrated superior performance in this specific test, achieving higher velocity, greater muzzle energy, and better expansion, making it the recommended choice.

This review covers the Mossberg Maverick 88, a budget-friendly 12-gauge pump-action shotgun, highlighting its simplicity and reliability for home defense. It details a comparison with the Mossberg 500/590, a full field strip, and the use of the Opsol Mini-Clip adapter with Aguila Minishells to increase capacity and ensure reliable cycling. Range tests confirm the adapter's necessity for 100% Minishell reliability.

This test evaluates Federal Syntech Defense 9mm SJHP ammunition using a Canik Mete MC9 and Glock 17. The ammo consistently segmented into three petals and a core, with the core penetrating 18-18.5 inches and segments stopping around 9 inches. Velocity averaged 1033 fps from the MC9 and 1094 fps from the G17, demonstrating high consistency.

The Taurus Model 856 in .38 Special is a capable snub-nose revolver, offering a smooth trigger and good accuracy for its class. It performs well in both single and double-action at typical defensive ranges, with comfortable grips aiding recoil management. The 856 proves to be a reliable and aesthetically pleasing option for concealed carry or self-defense.

This review tests three .380 ACP ammunition types in a Ruger LCP Max with a heavy clothing barrier over ballistic gel. The Winchester 95gr FMJ, Underwood 90gr Xtreme Penetrator, and Federal 99gr Hydra-Shok Deep were evaluated for penetration and expansion. Despite being FMJ, the Winchester proved to be the most effective due to superior penetration, outperforming premium defensive rounds that failed to expand.