BEST 9mm CARRY Ammo?!

Published on August 28, 2018
Duration: 11:45

This guide details a method for testing 9mm carry ammunition performance using a compact pistol like the Glock 43 and ballistic gel. The process involves firing various JHP rounds into gel blocks to measure penetration depth and expansion, providing objective data for self-defense and concealed carry applications. The instructor's expertise in terminal ballistics is evident through the standardized testing methodology.

Quick Summary

Expert ballistic testing reveals how various 9mm carry ammunition performs from a compact Glock 43. Speer Gold Dot and Federal HST 124gr JHP showed excellent expansion and penetration around 11.5-12.5 inches. Hornady Critical Duty 135gr offered maximum penetration (16 inches), while Remington UMC 115gr provided good value with 14 inches of penetration.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Testing Purpose
  2. 00:37Glock 17 vs Glock 43 Comparison
  3. 01:14Ballistic Gel Setup
  4. 01:39Speer Gold Dot 124gr Test
  5. 02:28Federal HST 124gr Test
  6. 03:13Hornady Critical Defense 115gr Test
  7. 04:40Hornady Critical Duty 124gr +P Test
  8. 06:30Hornady Critical Duty 135gr Test
  9. 07:56Remington UMC 115gr JHP Test
  10. 09:21Final Comparison & Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a Glock 43's barrel length affect 9mm ammunition performance?

The Glock 43's shorter barrel (3.41 inches) results in lower muzzle velocity compared to longer-barreled pistols like the Glock 17. This reduced velocity can significantly impact a bullet's ability to expand properly upon hitting a target, potentially leading to shallower penetration.

What are the key differences between Speer Gold Dot and Federal HST 9mm ammunition?

In testing with a Glock 43, Speer Gold Dot 124gr JHP achieved slightly deeper penetration (12.5 inches) with excellent expansion, while Federal HST 124gr JHP penetrated 11.5 inches with comparable, perfect expansion. Both are considered top-tier defensive rounds.

Which 9mm ammunition offered the best penetration in the Glock 43 ballistic gel test?

The standard pressure 135gr Hornady Critical Duty achieved the deepest penetration, reaching the full 16 inches of the first ballistic gel block. However, it showed less expansion compared to lighter, faster rounds.

Is Remington UMC 115gr JHP a viable option for concealed carry?

Yes, the Remington UMC 115gr JHP performed impressively well for its price point in the test, achieving 14 inches of penetration with solid expansion from a Glock 43, making it a budget-friendly option.

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