Did This AMMO Change My Mind?...NEW! Hornady Critical Defense 5.7x28 Self-Defense Ammo Test!

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 expert analysis from Line45 identifies seven firearms struggling in the 2026 market, attributing their slow sales to factors like safety recalls, reliability issues, high ammunition costs, and market saturation. The video highlights how early production problems and regulatory uncertainty can significantly impact a firearm's long-term market viability, even for well-regarded brands. Buyers are increasingly prioritizing proven track records and value over novel features when making purchasing decisions in a normalized market.

This review of the PSA 5.7 Rock Compact by Honest Outlaw covers its suitability for concealed carry, highlighting its high magazine capacity and low recoil. The video details first shots, accuracy tests at various distances (up to 200 yards), and discusses ammunition reliability issues encountered with specific Fiocchi loads. Despite some ammunition-related concerns, the pistol is praised for its affordability, features, and accuracy.

Amber and Doshie from Exile Armory showcase a wide array of new firearms and accessories. The video features various pistols, rifles, shotguns, and suppressors from brands like FN, Q, Bergara, Springfield Armory, and Beretta, with detailed pricing and some technical specifications provided. The presentation is casual and informative, highlighting new inventory for customers.

This review highlights five pistols that significantly exceed expectations for their price and performance. The Sig P322 offers exceptional value in the .22 LR market, while the Masterpiece Arms DS9 TC Hybrid provides high-end 2011 features at a lower cost. The Archon Type B Gen 2 impresses with its low bore axis for fast follow-up shots. The PSA Rock 5.7 delivers impressive performance in the 5.7x28mm caliber, and the Tisas PX9 Gen3 Duty stands out as a feature-rich budget 9mm. The presenter, Chris, demonstrates high authority through detailed technical comparisons and personal testing.

This comprehensive ballistic gel test evaluates Hornady's Critical Defense (FTX) and Custom (XTP) .25 ACP ammunition. The host, demonstrating high expertise, uses a Beretta 21A Bobcat and a LabRadar to record velocities averaging over 900 fps. Results show neither round expanded through a heavy clothing barrier, with FTX penetrating 10.5 inches and XTP reaching 17.5 inches. The expert concludes .25 ACP is underpowered for self-defense, recommending hard-cast bullets over hollow points for this caliber.

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.