Best Handgun Ammo To Use in 2022?

Published on April 13, 2021
Duration: 14:21

This video from USCCA, featuring Kevin Michalowski, provides an expert overview of handgun ammunition selection for personal defense. It covers cartridge components, common calibers like 9mm, and differentiates between FMJ, JHP, frangible, and specialized rounds like Hornady Critical Defense. A key takeaway is the '200-round rule' for testing defensive ammunition reliability.

Quick Summary

For self-defense, Jacketed Hollow-Point (JHP) ammunition is recommended over Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) because JHP rounds are designed to expand upon impact, maximizing energy transfer and reducing over-penetration risks. FMJ is better suited for range training due to its lower cost. Reliability testing, like the '200-round rule,' is crucial for defensive loads.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Handgun Ammunition
  2. 01:07Anatomy of a Cartridge
  3. 02:14Common Self-Defense Calibers
  4. 03:41FMJ vs. Hollow-Point
  5. 06:31Frangible and Specialized Ammunition
  6. 09:28Hornady Critical Defense and Polymer Tips
  7. 11:22Reliability Testing

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main components of a handgun cartridge?

A handgun cartridge consists of four primary components: the bullet (the projectile), the case (which holds everything together), the gunpowder (the propellant that creates the explosion), and the primer (the ignition source at the base).

What is the difference between FMJ and JHP ammunition for self-defense?

FMJ (Full Metal Jacket) is best for training as it's cheaper and less likely to expand, but it can over-penetrate. JHP (Jacketed Hollow-Point) is designed to expand on impact, transferring more energy to the target and reducing the risk of over-penetration, making it ideal for self-defense.

How should I test handgun ammunition for reliability?

USCCA recommends the '200-round rule': your firearm should fire 200 consecutive rounds of a specific defensive load without any malfunctions before you can consider it reliable for everyday carry. This ensures consistent performance.

What makes Hornady Critical Defense ammunition unique?

Hornady Critical Defense rounds feature a distinctive polymer tip inserted into the hollow-point cavity. This design prevents the hollow point from becoming clogged by clothing or barriers, ensuring reliable expansion upon impact for effective self-defense.

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