It Really Is Special!...Federal Punch .44 Special Self-defense AMMO Ballistic Gel 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 review by Buckeye Ballistics provides expert-level insight into the CCI Uppercut .22 WMR ammunition, specifically its performance in ballistic gel tests. The analysis highlights its effectiveness from a 3-inch barrel handgun, demonstrating consistent expansion and penetration that rivals some larger caliber defensive rounds, particularly when tested through denim. The data suggests this rimfire load is a viable option for personal defense.

This expert-level analysis details a ballistic gel test of Federal Punch .38 Special +P 120-grain ammunition, comparing performance from 2-inch and 3-inch barrel revolvers. The test highlights how barrel length significantly impacts velocity and the ability of the projectile to overcome clothing barriers and achieve proper expansion. The Federal Punch demonstrated insufficient performance from shorter barrels, failing to expand and clogging with fabric.

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 by Tools&Targets compares PPU and Magtech .32 ACP JHP ammunition through ballistic gel and velocity testing. The expert instructor found neither performed exceptionally well, with limited expansion and penetration, suggesting better options like Buffalo Bore for .32 ACP self-defense. The Beretta 3032 Tomcat was used for testing.

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 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.