Pilgrim Torch vs Hornady Critical Defense | 9mm Comparison

Published on May 8, 2025
Duration: 1:29

This video compares the ballistic performance of Pilgrim Torch and Hornady Critical Defense 9mm ammunition using a Glock 17 and ballistic gel. The Pilgrim Torch demonstrated a unique starburst pattern upon impact, creating significant tissue disruption, while the Hornady Critical Defense exhibited a cleaner wound channel with less fragmentation. The Pilgrim Torch is noted for its significantly lower recoil, attributed to its higher velocity and lighter projectile.

Quick Summary

Pilgrim Torch 9mm ammunition travels at approximately 2,000 fps, creating a significant 4-inch starburst pattern in ballistic gel with extensive fragmentation. It's also noted for 30-35% less recoil. Hornady Critical Defense 115gr (1135 fps) offers a cleaner wound channel with less penetration and fragmentation.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Pilgrim Torch Test Setup
  2. 00:02Shooting Pilgrim Torch 9mm into Ballistic Gel
  3. 00:23Pilgrim Torch Ballistic Gel Results Analysis
  4. 00:43Pilgrim Torch Penetration Capabilities
  5. 00:50Hornady Critical Defense Test Setup
  6. 00:51Shooting Hornady Critical Defense 9mm into Ballistic Gel
  7. 01:02Hornady Critical Defense Ballistic Gel Results Analysis
  8. 01:19Direct Comparison: Pilgrim Torch vs Hornady Critical Defense

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Pilgrim Torch 9mm ammunition perform in ballistic gel compared to Hornady Critical Defense?

Pilgrim Torch 9mm ammo created a 4-inch starburst pattern in ballistic gel with significant fragmentation, indicating extensive tissue disruption. Hornady Critical Defense 115gr showed a cleaner, straighter wound channel with less fragmentation and penetration.

What are the advertised velocity and recoil characteristics of Pilgrim Torch 9mm ammunition?

Pilgrim Torch 9mm is advertised to travel at approximately 2,000 feet per second and is claimed to produce 30-35% less recoil due to its lighter mass and higher velocity, making it shoot lighter than most other 9mm rounds.

What is the typical performance of Hornady Critical Defense 115-grain 9mm ammunition?

Hornady Critical Defense 115-grain 9mm ammunition is advertised to travel at 1135 feet per second. In ballistic gel tests, it typically creates a cleaner wound channel with less fragmentation and penetration compared to high-velocity, lighter projectiles.

Can Pilgrim Torch 9mm ammunition penetrate common vehicle materials?

Yes, Pilgrim Torch 9mm ammunition is stated to be capable of penetrating windshields and car doors, suggesting robust performance against intermediate barriers.

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