Federal HST 380 Micro 99gr Ballistic Gel Test & Review .380acp

Published on July 1, 2023
Duration: 8:47

This expert guide details the ballistic gel testing procedure for Federal HST 380 Auto 99gr Jacketed Hollow Point ammunition using a Ruger LCP MAX pistol. The test involves firing into bare ballistic gel and through denim to assess expansion, penetration, and weight retention, providing critical data for self-defense ammunition selection. The speaker, an experienced firearms instructor, emphasizes the elite performance of this load for .380 ACP.

Quick Summary

The Federal HST 380 Micro 99gr JHP demonstrated elite performance in ballistic gel tests using a Ruger LCP MAX. It achieved 100% weight retention, expanded up to 0.632 inches in bare gel, and penetrated 12 inches, meeting FBI minimums. Through denim, it maintained good expansion and penetration (13.75-15.25 inches).

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Setup
  2. 00:28Test Procedure
  3. 00:45Gel Block Preparation
  4. 01:14Bare Gel Shot Firing
  5. 01:21Bare Gel Shot Analysis
  6. 01:56Denim Shot Firing
  7. 02:03Denim Shot Analysis (First)
  8. 03:00Denim Shot Firing (Second)
  9. 03:05Denim Shot Analysis (Second)
  10. 03:45Penetration Measurements
  11. 04:11Bullet Performance Discussion
  12. 06:00Retained Weight Measurements
  13. 07:10Expanded Diameter Measurements
  14. 08:09Conclusion & Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

How did the Federal HST 380 Micro 99gr JHP perform in ballistic gel tests?

The Federal HST 380 Micro 99gr JHP expanded to 0.632 inches and penetrated 12 inches in bare gel. Through four layers of denim, it achieved 100% weight retention with expansion diameters of 0.44 and 0.540 inches, and penetration depths of 15.25 and 13.75-14 inches, meeting FBI standards from a short barrel.

What pistol was used for the Federal HST 380 Micro ballistic gel test?

The ballistic gel test for the Federal HST 380 Micro 99gr JHP ammunition was conducted using a Ruger LCP MAX, a micro-compact pistol featuring a 2.75-inch barrel. This setup is crucial for evaluating defensive ammunition performance in concealed carry firearms.

What are the key performance metrics for the Federal HST 380 Micro 99gr JHP?

Key metrics include 100% weight retention (99.8-102 grains), significant expansion (up to 0.632 inches in bare gel), and adequate penetration (12 inches in bare gel, 13.75-15.25 inches through denim), meeting FBI minimums for self-defense.

Is Federal HST 380 Micro considered good defensive ammunition?

Yes, based on this ballistic gel test, the Federal HST 380 Micro 99gr JHP is considered elite defensive ammunition for the .380 ACP caliber, especially for micro-compact pistols, due to its consistent expansion, weight retention, and penetration meeting critical self-defense standards.

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