What's YOUR Preference?...XTP VS FTX .357 Magnum Self-Defense AMMO Ballistic Gel Test!

Published on October 5, 2025
Duration: 10:42

This video provides a detailed ballistic gel test comparing Hornady American Gunner 125gr XTP and Federal Premium Critical Defense 125gr FTX .357 Magnum ammunition. The test, conducted from a 2-inch barrel Taurus 605, measures velocity, penetration, and expansion. Both rounds demonstrated effective performance, with the Critical Defense FTX showing slightly more expansion.

Quick Summary

In a ballistic gel test from a 2-inch barrel, Hornady American Gunner 125gr XTP .357 Magnum averaged 1205 ft/s and penetrated 19.25 inches. Federal Premium Critical Defense 125gr FTX .357 Magnum averaged 1225 ft/s, penetrated 14.25 inches, and showed greater expansion, making it a strong self-defense option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between Hornady American Gunner XTP and Federal Premium Critical Defense FTX .357 Magnum ammunition?

The Hornady American Gunner XTP is designed for deep penetration, while the Federal Premium Critical Defense FTX prioritizes greater expansion. In a 2-inch barrel test, the XTP penetrated 19.25 inches, and the FTX penetrated 14.25 inches, with the FTX showing more noticeable expansion.

How did the Hornady XTP and Federal FTX .357 Magnum rounds perform in ballistic gel from a 2-inch barrel?

Both rounds performed effectively. The XTP averaged 1205 ft/s and penetrated 19.25 inches. The FTX averaged 1225 ft/s, penetrated 14.25 inches, and exhibited more significant expansion, making it a good choice for self-defense.

What is the typical velocity for .357 Magnum from a 2-inch barrel?

From a 2-inch barrel, .357 Magnum velocities are significantly reduced compared to longer barrels. For example, the Hornady XTP averaged 1205 ft/s and the Federal FTX averaged 1225 ft/s in this test, whereas advertised velocities are often around 1400-1500 ft/s from 8-inch barrels.

Which .357 Magnum self-defense round offers better expansion: XTP or FTX?

The Federal Premium Critical Defense FTX projectile demonstrated noticeably more expansion in ballistic gel compared to the Hornady American Gunner XTP. This greater expansion is likely due to its design, including the polymer tip.

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