9mm Speer Gold Dot Standard vs +P! Ballistic Gel Test With the Taurus GX4!

Published on April 5, 2022
Duration: 11:21

This video compares Speer Gold Dot 9mm standard pressure and +P ammunition using a Taurus GX4 pistol and ballistic gel. The test reveals a 61 feet per second velocity difference favoring the +P, resulting in slightly more expansion and less penetration (16 inches vs. 17.5 inches). Despite the velocity increase, the instructor notes similar wound channels and concludes that the increased recoil, report, and muzzle flash of the +P may not be worth the marginal gains, favoring the standard pressure for its more manageable shooting characteristics.

Quick Summary

Comparing Speer Gold Dot 124gr 9mm standard pressure and +P, the +P averaged 1088 fps versus 1027 fps for standard, a 61 fps increase. In ballistic gel, +P achieved 16 inches of penetration with slightly more expansion, while standard pressure reached 17.5 inches. The +P also produced more recoil, report, and muzzle flash.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Test Setup
  2. 01:31Velocity Testing: Standard Pressure
  3. 02:09Velocity Testing: Plus P
  4. 03:18Ballistic Gel Test: Standard Pressure
  5. 04:16Ballistic Gel Test: Plus P
  6. 04:41Gel Results Analysis: Standard vs. Plus P
  7. 07:13Projectile Examination
  8. 07:56Projectile Weight & Size Measurements
  9. 08:34Conclusion: Is Plus P Worth It?
  10. 09:20Final Thoughts & Viewer Engagement

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the velocity difference between Speer Gold Dot 9mm standard pressure and +P?

In a 3-inch barrel Taurus GX4, the Speer Gold Dot 124gr 9mm standard pressure averaged 1027 fps, while the +P averaged 1088 fps. This represents a 61 fps increase for the +P ammunition.

How does Speer Gold Dot 9mm standard pressure compare to +P in ballistic gel?

The standard pressure round achieved 17.5 inches of penetration, while the +P achieved 16 inches. Both showed good expansion, with the +P exhibiting slightly more, but the standard pressure offered less recoil and report.

Does +P ammunition provide significantly more expansion than standard pressure?

In this test with Speer Gold Dot 124gr 9mm, the +P showed slightly more expansion than the standard pressure. However, the difference was not dramatic, and both projectiles retained their full weight after passing through the gel.

What are the practical differences in shooting Speer Gold Dot 9mm +P vs. standard pressure?

The +P ammunition results in noticeably more recoil, a louder report, and increased muzzle flash compared to the standard pressure. These factors can impact shooter comfort and follow-up shot speed.

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