Ball ammo vs. hollow points: a practical take

Instruction from TheYankeeMarshal, an experienced firearms instructor, advises against using birdshot and buckshot for home defense in townhouses. Birdshot is deemed ineffective for stopping threats, while buckshot carries a high risk of over-penetration in confined spaces. The instructor recommends handgun calibers like 9mm or .45 ACP with appropriate defensive loads as a more suitable option for townhouse home defense.

This video compares the self-defense effectiveness of 5 rounds of .357 Magnum versus 6 rounds of .38 Special +P. While .357 Magnum offers higher energy potential with premium loads, the practical advantage often shifts to .38 Special +P when considering recoil management and the benefit of an extra round. Specialized .38 Special +P loads can even match or exceed standard .357 Magnum energy.

This video from Wilson Combat features experts Bill Wilson, Ken Hackathorn, and Paul Howe testing the Lehigh Defense 9mm 115-grain Controlled Fracturing bullet. The test demonstrates the bullet's unique design, which sheds petals to create radial wound paths while the base ensures deep penetration. Performance is analyzed in ballistic gelatin and through heavy clothing, showing consistent expansion and penetration, even against Level 3A body armor where the fracturing mechanism is negated.

This ballistic gel test evaluates the performance of powerful .380 ACP rounds through a four-layer denim barrier. Many high-energy rounds struggled to expand, with some over-penetrating. The Underwood +P (90gr XTP) showed promising expansion in organic gel but varied in synthetic gel, highlighting material differences. Fragmentation-based rounds like G2 RIP and Liberty Civil Defense also demonstrated unique wound channel potential.

This video focuses on selecting the right ammunition for self-defense, emphasizing reliability, proper penetration, and accuracy. It explains the function of hollow-point bullets in expanding on impact to stop threats while minimizing over-penetration. The content also contrasts defensive rounds with less expensive full-metal jacket (FMJ) or 'ball' ammunition, recommending practice with defensive rounds to manage recoil. Advice is given on the necessary quantity of self-defense ammunition.

This video explores the evolution and practical application of the .380 ACP cartridge, debunking its historical reputation as underpowered. Modern firearm designs have significantly improved its controllability and capacity, making it a viable option for concealed carry where comfort and concealability often outweigh raw ballistic power. While inherent performance limits exist, precise shot placement and faster recovery are key advantages for many shooters.

This review identifies five of the worst firearms for concealed carry, excluding specific models like the Remington R51 and small Kel-Tecs. The Bersa Thunder is criticized for poor metallurgy, single-action revolvers for slow operation, the Taurus Judge for poor accuracy/penetration, the Desert Eagle for size and reliability, and the Kel-Tec PMR-30 for extreme unreliability and a suboptimal caliber.

This review covers five new handguns available for under $200, focusing on budget-friendly options for self-defense and concealed carry. The Hi-Point CF380 is noted for reliability despite its bulk, while the SCCY CPX-2 offers a refined 9mm option. The Taurus 709 Slim is praised for concealability, and the original Ruger LCP is a proven pocket pistol. The Taurus PT111 Millennium G2 is highlighted as the best overall value with its 13-round capacity.

This video outlines critical 'don'ts' for concealed carry, focusing on safety and accessibility. It strongly advises against methods like Mexican carry, pocket carry without a holster, and small-of-back carry due to risks of accidental discharge, poor retention, and injury. The speaker also critiques ill-fitting or overly complex holsters, off-body carry in bags, and ankle carry, emphasizing the importance of proper gear and secure, accessible firearm placement for effective self-defense.

This review breaks down the best 1911 pistol options across different price points and intended uses. It recommends the Springfield Armory GI series for beginners, Kimber Pro Carry and Para Slim Hawg for concealed carry, and the Springfield Armory Loaded for feature-rich value. The Colt Combat Commander is highlighted as the best overall choice due to its quality, finish, and potential for customization.