9MM vs .40S&W!....Hornady Critical Defense AMMO Test!

This comprehensive ballistic gel test evaluates the Winchester Defender .40 S&W 165-grain bonded JHP ammunition. The review, conducted by an experienced firearms instructor, details velocity, penetration, and expansion characteristics across different Glock barrel lengths (3.5" and 4.5"). The results demonstrate excellent performance, with the bonded projectile maintaining integrity and achieving significant expansion and penetration through a heavy clothing barrier.

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 a detailed ballistic gel test comparing Speer Gold Dot .45 G.A.P. and .40 S&W self-defense ammunition. The analysis, presented with expert commentary and visual evidence, covers cartridge history, velocity, penetration, and projectile expansion through a heavy clothing barrier. While both rounds performed well, the .45 G.A.P. is noted as a niche cartridge.

This review details a ballistic gel test of Browning X-Point .40 S&W 180gr self-defense ammunition. The test utilized a heavy clothing barrier and two Glock pistols (G27 and G22) with different barrel lengths to assess performance. While the ammunition demonstrated consistent expansion and deep penetration, the host concluded it was adequate but not superior to other available options.

This video provides an expert-level comparison of two 9mm +P rounds, Liberty Bear Country and Federal Solid Core, for potential bear defense. The test, conducted by the Tools&Targets host using ballistic gel and a Canik TP9 SFX, reveals significant differences in performance. The Liberty round fragmented extensively, penetrating 12.5 inches, while the Federal round maintained its integrity, achieving 24 inches of penetration. The host concludes that while both rounds perform as advertised, 9mm is generally insufficient for grizzly bear defense.

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.