9MM vs .380 ACP!...Hornady Critical Defense AMMO Test.

Published on June 1, 2023
Duration: 13:39

This guide details a ballistic gel test comparing Hornady Critical Defense 9mm Luger and .380 ACP ammunition. It outlines the setup, testing procedures using specific firearms and equipment like a LabRadar, and the analysis of results including velocity, penetration, and expansion. The expert-level instruction emphasizes practical data collection for ammunition performance evaluation.

Quick Summary

In ballistic gel tests, Hornady Critical Defense 9mm Luger 115 gr FTX expanded to 0.543-0.553 inches and penetrated 12.5 inches, meeting FBI standards. The .380 ACP Critical Defense 90 gr FTX failed to expand, tumbled, and penetrated 16 inches, with one round exiting the gel block early, indicating superior performance for the 9mm.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Test Setup
  2. 00:31Ammo Comparison Overview
  3. 01:19Ammunition Details
  4. 01:48Firearms Used for Testing
  5. 02:36Chronograph Speed Test - .380 ACP
  6. 03:38Chronograph Speed Test - 9mm
  7. 04:15Muzzle Energy Comparison
  8. 04:52Ballistic Gel Test - .380 ACP
  9. 06:55Ballistic Gel Test - 9mm
  10. 07:17Penetration and Expansion Analysis
  11. 09:45Bullet Examination and Measurements
  12. 11:02Final Thoughts on Critical Defense Ammo
  13. 11:42Conclusion and Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Hornady Critical Defense 9mm and .380 ACP perform in ballistic gel tests?

The 9mm Critical Defense 115 gr FTX expanded to 0.543-0.553 inches and penetrated 12.5 inches. The .380 ACP Critical Defense 90 gr FTX failed to expand, tumbled, and penetrated 16 inches, with one round exiting the gel block early.

What were the measured velocities for Hornady Critical Defense 9mm and .380 ACP?

The 9mm averaged 1109 fps (stated 1135 fps) from a 3.1-inch barrel. The .380 ACP averaged 875 fps (stated 1000 fps) from a 2.75-inch barrel. These are measured averages from the test.

Which caliber performed better in the ballistic gel test: 9mm or .380 ACP?

The 9mm Critical Defense round significantly outperformed the .380 ACP version. The 9mm showed reliable expansion and met FBI penetration standards, while the .380 ACP failed to expand and had inconsistent penetration, leading to a verdict favoring the 9mm.

What firearms were used to test the Hornady Critical Defense ammunition?

The test utilized a Ruger LCP MAX with a 2.75-inch barrel for the .380 ACP ammunition and a Canik Mete MC9 with a 3.1-inch barrel for the 9mm Luger ammunition, representing common concealed carry platforms.

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