Is It REALLY That Much BETTER?.....357 Sig vs 9MM +P+ Self-Defense AMMO Test!

Published on December 3, 2023
Duration: 15:32

This review compares .357 Sig and 9mm +P+ self-defense ammunition using ballistic gel and clothing barriers. The .357 Sig demonstrated superior velocity (1464 fps vs 1237 fps) and energy (590 ft-lb vs 421 ft-lb), resulting in more significant temporary cavity disruption and fragmentation, despite slightly less weight retention. While .357 Sig outperformed 9mm +P+ in testing, its declining market popularity due to industry trends is noted.

Quick Summary

The .357 Sig demonstrated superior performance in ballistic gel tests, averaging 1464 fps and 590 ft-lb of energy, causing more disruption. The 9mm +P+ penetrated 14.5 inches with good expansion, retaining more weight.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Test Setup
  2. 00:45Firearms & Ammo Overview
  3. 03:389mm +P+ Velocity Test
  4. 05:29.357 Sig Velocity Test
  5. 07:34Ballistic Gel Performance Comparison
  6. 11:07Projectile Analysis & Weight Retention
  7. 13:17Conclusion & Market Outlook

Frequently Asked Questions

How did .357 Sig and 9mm +P+ perform in ballistic gel tests?

The .357 Sig penetrated 14.75 inches with significant fragmentation and temporary cavity disruption. The 9mm +P+ penetrated 14.5 inches with good expansion and less fragmentation, retaining more projectile weight.

What were the velocity and energy differences between .357 Sig and 9mm +P+?

.357 Sig averaged 1464 fps and 590 ft-lb of muzzle energy. The 9mm +P+ averaged 1237 fps and 421 ft-lb, showing a substantial energy advantage for the .357 Sig.

Which ammunition caliber offered better projectile expansion and weight retention?

The 9mm +P+ expanded to a larger diameter (~0.56") and retained more weight (123.8 grains). The .357 Sig's core expanded to ~0.51" but fragmented, retaining less weight (109.8 grains).

Is .357 Sig still a popular self-defense caliber?

While .357 Sig showed superior performance in this test, its market popularity is declining. Factors like Glock's influence on law enforcement procurement may reduce its future availability.

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