Testing the .380 for Self Defense

Published on July 15, 2013
Duration: 6:32

This video tests the effectiveness of .380 ACP ammunition for self-defense against 9mm. Ballistics gel tests reveal that .380 hollow points, like Speer Gold Dot, often fail to meet the FBI's 12-inch penetration standard, achieving only 9.5 inches. Conversely, .380 ball ammunition, such as PMC 90gr FMJ, demonstrated over-penetration and significant wound cavity creation, leading the speaker to recommend ball ammo for .380 carry.

Quick Summary

The Speer Gold Dot 90gr .380 hollow point failed to meet the FBI's minimum 12-inch penetration standard in ballistics gel, achieving only 9.5 inches. For .380 carry, the speaker recommends using ball ammunition (FMJ) for better penetration.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: .380 vs 9mm for Self Defense
  2. 01:46Velocity Testing: Kahr P380
  3. 02:12Speer Gold Dot .380 Gel Test Results
  4. 02:51PMC Ball .380 Gel Test Results
  5. 03:599mm Comparison & .380 Self Defense Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the FBI's minimum penetration standards for self-defense ammunition?

The FBI's minimum standard for self-defense handgun ammunition penetration is generally considered to be 12 inches in 10% ordnance gelatin. This ensures the projectile can reach vital organs through clothing and tissue barriers.

Did the Speer Gold Dot .380 hollow point meet FBI penetration standards?

No, the Speer Gold Dot 90gr .380 hollow point tested in this video only achieved 9.5 inches of penetration in ballistics gel, falling short of the FBI's minimum 12-inch requirement.

What type of .380 ACP ammunition does the speaker recommend for self-defense?

Based on the terminal ballistics tests, the speaker recommends using .380 ACP ball ammunition (FMJ) for self-defense if carrying a .380 pistol, as hollow points showed insufficient penetration. Ball ammo demonstrated better penetration and wound channel creation.

How does .380 ACP perform compared to 9mm for self-defense?

The test indicates a significant performance difference, with 9mm ammunition like Hornady Critical Duty achieving much greater penetration (over 17 inches) than .380 ACP hollow points. While .380 ball ammo penetrated better than its hollow point counterpart, 9mm generally offers superior terminal ballistics.

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