I feel the same way he's so professional about it. All the other channels are weak in one way or another compared to this one. tnoutdoors9 we will miss you, and thanks for coming back to the comments section now and then. that's cool of you to do!
I have been in law enforcement for years and I have changed my current carry load just based on your test. Thanks for your excellent videos and may GOD bless you and your family.
You have by far, the best ammunition reviews on UA-cam. Thanks for all your hard work. It makes a big difference for guys needing real life data on their ammo. Great Job and please keep them coming.
Still enjoying and highly appreciative of the videos on your channel. I regularly go back to recap on some of the older Vids. Always look forward to new ones you release.
Thank you for the great video. I'm ever so slowly moving towards the 9mm, something I never thought I'd ever do. Your videos have helped me with my ammo choice for a good while now and I always look forward to watching them,
After some research, I carry the Hornady Critical Duty, and I'll explain why. I live at over a mile of elevation in the northern US. We have at least 8 months out of the year where it's cold enough for heavy winter coats to be necessary daily, and many days where it's cold enough that people will bundle up with even more layers underneath. People say that the 4 layers of denim test is unrealistic because of too much fabric, but for me it's really not enough. Consider someone wearing a winter parka, or a Carhartt type coat. They have the outer layer of heavy duck or canvas fabric, the insulation, and the liner. 3 layers right there, and the insulation can be anything from wool to down. It's often quite thick. Under that, it would not at all be uncommon for someone to wear either a fleece jacket, a sweatshirt, a flannel or a thermal shirt. Another layer of fabric. Under that, a t-shirt or undershirt. That is FIVE layers, some of them very thick. That's not even to mention the possibility of shooting through some other sort of barrier to even get to the bundled up bad guy. So I need a bullet that I can be certain can punch through all of that and still work. Hence, the Critical Duty. The flex tip means it won't clog on thick fabric, and it's barrier penetration seems excellent. Expansion is on the low side, sure, but it will expand every time. With a traditional hollowpoint, I wouldn't be sure that it would expand at all in that much padding. The Critical Duty is expensive, but for where I live and the conditions I face here, it seems the best possible choice for handgun ammo. It wouldn't surprise me at all to see the rubber tip become the standard sometime down the road, as it seems to prevent the clogging problem hollowpoints can have. I think far too many people look at things in a vacuum and don't consider their own situations and needs. That is a mistake, and one that could end up being fatal.
Indeed , local conditions of 10 months of winter, and 2 months of late fall are important consideration . Not to be facetious , but but that could suggest that .45acp or .357 mag could be better than 9mm .
Good evening; I have been watching your videos for a few years now and have found them fascinating. They have truly caused me to rethink a lot of my ill conceived notions of what pistol ammunition can and can not do. I'm a firearms instructor for my agency and never knew or was trained in the ballistics that I have learned from your channel. Thank you for all of your hard work and extreme diligence. On duty, I am required to carry issued ammunition but off duty the choice of caliber and ammunition is up to the Officer. You have helped me make better choices then what is issued.
No plans for either at this time, but I can tell you that my preferences will lean toward the same products you viewed here. In .40, 165 or 180 gr, and 230 in .45.
I've tested very little CorBon in a gel format, but in years past, before UA-cam, I did ALOT in wetpack. I've had feed issues with their JHP's catching on the feed ramp. Jacket separation. Velocities are usually good.
I've watched all of these videos before, but this format was short and concise and I really appreciated it. Thank you for this synopsis, definitely going to look for this rounds here shortly.
Thanks for the feedback. I spent most of last weekend working on this but it wasn't quite ready before I had to go dormant for several days. I was concerned about the 70+ screen changes, but after watching some commercials this week and noting that a 30 second spot has 20+ changes, and a 1 minute commercial has 40 to 50, I stopped worrying about the structure.
Thanks for the time and effort you put into the videos. I always check your videos when I am going to purchase any self defense ammo . The videos are a great visual point in researching ammo.
Excellent video. I carry the Critical Duty 135gr +p in an EDC role. Your first video on that product is what sold me. The content you publish is second to none.
Now that's a well laid out presentation of EDC ammo!! Great information, simple, clear and too the point. I agree with most of the choices here having tried 4 of them myself. Subscribed!
I always enjoy the wealth of observations you make available to us in your reviews, allowing users to diligently research their own options armed with knowledge from a respectable fellow operator . Thank you sir !
Nice to see an evaluation of several brands with pros and negatives. I have fired boxs of hollow points from 95 to 147 gr in 9MM. In my limited experience the 124 gr Federal and Winchester worked best for me but all had 3" clusters at 45'. All worked well in my firearm and it is a good feeling that a variety of ammo runs and shoots well at distances and gun I am comfortable with. Thanks for your excellent work. Doran
Thank you so much for the info. I totally agree with your assessment. The HST standard Velocity is one of the best all around defense ammo and yes, it is quite hard to come by.
Thank you for making a video that quickly and clearly lists the advertised and measured velocities, showed the before and after of the projectile and shows that measured wound tract. For multiple loads. Rather than having to write a bunch of stuff down so you can compare after watching 10 different videos to compare 10 different rounds.
Thank you Tnoutdoors9 for making ammo testing/review videos. I really have learned alot about ammo from you. If it wasn't for you I would'nt have known what to carry and have the knowledge. Again thank you, I really appreciated it.
Excellent overview! You always seem to do more than your share of homework prior to putting out a video. It is appreciated. I have not shot +p ammo out of my Glock thus far but last night there was a sale on Magtech for 20 rounds for $11.48 per box and that was a no brainer. Thanks for sharing.
I just picked up two boxes of 9mm Gold Dot 'Short Barrel' for my M&P Shield. It's the first time i've seen it since the beginning of the year. Just this month, i've been able to find every type of defensive ammo i've seen you test in 9mm, except for the Ranger series. Thanks for providing such valuable information!
I agree with your choices and if I were to make a list, mine would be similar. The HST in 147 is a great choice. Very low recoil and flash. The HST bullet in my own tests expanded quickly, and wide, even at low velosities while the GD and the Rangers seem to need a more velosity to really expand, and expand slower as they pass through. Light HST's due to the fast and rapid expansion tend to stop short, but dump energy fast. Good review, the only thing Id like to see is how the HST 147 does in the G43.
What an outstanding overview of your best test results in 9mm self defense ammo! By my count there were 73 individual scene changes in this video and I consider this your best editing and voice-over work to date. My favorite scene was right in the beginning when you positively burned down those two steel IDPA targets from inside the guard shack!!! I didn't even realize this was file footage until the second time around; no leaves on the trees!
I wrote the ammunition specs for years for my federal agency and am amazed at how far hollow point design has come. However, there was a “Quantum Leap” (IMO) in terminal ballistics with the advent of Lehigh projectiles as loaded by Underwood. The “Extreme” series is, IMO, absolutely amazing in the area of terminal ballistics. The Extreme series is a solid copper projectile with “Flutes” that causes both tissue and fluid to be propelled out radially, thereby causing a larger and longer than normal wound channel. Paul Harrel did test of the Underwood 65 grain Extreme Defender that will explain better than I can just how effective this type of ammunition can be.
An excellent and well informed argument for your carry choices. I wish all You Tube gun and ammo videos were this well reasoned. I have basically the same list, with 124gr +p and 147gr Ranger-T added in, along with the Cor Bon 115gr DPX.
Thanks for a great video. The 9mm is my routine everyday carry handgun. When I need something larger, I carry a 45acp. When I need something smaller, I carry a 380acp or a 25acp. In my 4-inch HK USP 9mm, I usually carry one of the following 147 grain jacked hollow point ammunition: 1. Federal HST 2. Speer Gold Dot 3. Hornaday XTP 4. Winchester Silver Tip 5. Remington Bonded
A very timely video. I was browsing on Midway USA for self defense ammo over the last few weeks. I went back and forth and back and forth on various brands, finally threw my arms up in the air and grabbed some Hornady and Fiocchi XTP.
The Gold Dot 124 +p gas probably seen the most LE use, so its performance is the best known. I tend to gravitate toward it. All are great choices. The deeper penetrating loads are something to consider for wintertime especially. Love all your testing and research. STAY SAFE!!
Their loads are generally driven to or beyond the velocity threshold for expansion. If they loaded Gold Dots, for example, closer to manufacturer specs, possibly a tad bit faster, I would consider it. But only if the OEM products are not available.
Just as I appreciate all of your expansion and penetration gel tests regarding various caliber and manufacturer rounds, I appreciate you putting this video together very much as well. With all of the choices out there these days, thanks for breaking it down to "the bare essentials" of what you rely on.
Wonderful, professionally done video. Partly or perhaps the main reason for my choice of EDC load was due to your videos. I currently carry the Hornady 9mm +P Critical Duty. It has been available in large quantities from internet stores in the 50rd boxes at very good prices (as low as $26.95). Thank you for all of your excellent work.
There's a reason even the FBI is going back to the 9mm. It's a proven round, penetration is as good as anything else, and faster follow up shots are desirable in a LE or defensive situation. The .45 guys are "compensating".
I mean the 45 acp's expanded to .897" diameter in TN's testing. thats a massive area increase.... infact its .632in^2 versus .346in^2 or an 82% increase in cutting diameter. So if shot placement is key then you have a better chance of shooting at a vital and actually hitting it. Inherently more bleeding and blood pressure drop even if it doesnt hit vital. At the slower velocity of 45 less material is pushed around the bullet. so the slow speed actually helps it cut what it touches. You'll also need a rifle or minimum 357 magnum if you want a chance at actually damaging internals with cavitation... I dont own 45acp but theres some serious merit to it with an HST.
Tn, in my assessment of your presentation of the facts I would lend credence to what you suggest above the other presentations I have seen thus far. I look forward to your videos and often refer back to them for the information contained therein. Keep up the great job as you seem to answer the questions about ammo that most of us do not have resources to answer. If there is a better commentator on the subject, I have not seen their work yet. You should have a television show, you are that good.
Thanks for all your AWESOME ammo review video's!! I always check out your video's before I purchase any self-defense ammo for my guns. This helped clear up what I will purchase for my new 9mm M&P Sheild! THANKS AGAIN!!!
I carry Golden Saber 124gr +P in my Glock 19. Great video. The quality and narration were excellent and of professional standards. Thank you for posting it.
New first time owner. Saw that your name had TN, of course I watched your channel. Learn from neighbors! Thanks for your research! I wrote them down haha now to price match sites lol.
Thanks for this one, TN. After all the great testing data points you've furnished, this is a great summary of how all that shakes out in the mind of the tester. Great video :)
I have carried 147 +p in HST for years and recommend them to everyone. HST is all I carry in any EDC platform, and is becoming available for revolvers as well. When I can't get HST for a particular revolver or rare caliber, Sig V crown is almost identical, but is not often available in the higher grain weights as HST but often has more caliber choices. Good job!
Hello TN. Just thought I'd take a moment to give you two thumbs up on this video. I've been been following you for about the last year and your videos seem to be getting better and better. The production quality of this video in particular, is as good as anyone's in the world. Keep up the good work. Also, I rotate 4 of 5 you recommend amongst my EFC's.
I don't have that problem around here, but possibly a 200 gr XTP or Gold Dot, in the event you aren't carrying a shotgun with 00 or 000 buckshot. 10mm would seem to be better than a .45 in that case.
Good choice. I carry a Glock 45 MOS full of Underwood 9mm 147gr. +P+ using Speer Gold Dot bullets. Spare mags are charged with Federal 124gr. +P and other mag is loaded with Speer Gold Dot 124gr. +P. I carry 60 rounds on my person. 18 in the firearm and two ETS mags of 21 rounds each.
Fantastic quality video, well produced and edited. I highly respect and thank you for sharing your test, research, and educated opinion. I too agree, those are all good loads for edc and hd.
I plan on carrying a 9mm when I get my CC permit (6 months and waiting). This video is very informative. Thank you. Your ammo tests, especially in different calibers, mirror law enforcements reasons for sticking with the 9mm.
My EDC is Hornady Critical Duty. Some people say it over- penetrates but it's designed to shoot through windshields doors and such before it hits its Target. Hornady just signed a big contract to supply that ammo for the FBI. I buy a box every time I see a box because now that they do have that contract those bullets are going to be harder to find. I've already noticed it but I still keep it in my gun all the time. I spend a whole lot of time in the outdoors and the woods. I'm more likely to run across dangerous animals than I am dangerous human so that extra penetration and thump works just fine for me. I can't say I target practice much with it because they are getting much harder to find. My everyday carry gun is a Springfield Hellcat and although I've got very used to the gun it's going to probably get an upgraded Apex Trigger. I probably will get a Glock 19 someday. I don't think they can be beat for durability and my gun is always on my side. I believe I would keep a Glock 19 in my bug out bag. Well, what I consider my three day bug out bag. Seems everybody has a different opinion how long you should last on the run in a bug-out bag. I also have a huge backpack that I can't really say how long I could survive out in the wilderness with if it don't die just trying to get to my destination because it's heavy! You all have a great day and God bless America!
In .45 ACP, my choices would be similar with regard to product.....230 gr Gold Dot, 230 gr HST, or 220 gr Critical Duty....and doesn't matter what barrel length.
Any backup mag with something other than what you just unloaded in the primary could offer a different level of recoil. You have already sold yourself on Critical Duty. That being the case, and if price is a barrier with the other products, no pun intended, then simply stock up on Hornady and avoid the second guessing your decision. While the Critical Duty easily met my penetration criteria, it does score points for availability and price; IMO to a higher degree than the other options.
Outstanding video. I concur with all of your choices and would have no issue carrying any of them. I carry the critical duty 135+p myself right now, easy for me to find and function flawlessly in my M&P 9c.
I used to carry 124 grn +P in the HST but after watching tests, reading ATK's actual testing material (which is GREAT) on their site plus watching their videos, and doing some testing of my own I switched to the 147 grain standard pressure about 18 months ago. Great quality, never a hitch, controllable recoil, no muzzle flash, and the BEST price per round of all of these super premium self defense loads.
My only experience with speer gold dot, was a full mag of 16 rnds that came with my SW9V when I bought it. Half the mag did not go bang with the other half consistently ftf, FTE, stove piping, and general jamming. I now only run hornady critical duty 147 grain ballistic tips. Never a dull moment with those.
Sir thank you for the video. Once again I am inspired by your work. it is excellent in all details. as it turns out I am carrying the speer 124+p as my edc. I carry this load form watching and studying your videos. I showed your videos to a friend in the television industry who is pro A2. He said that you would win multiple Emmys if you were on television. I also like the way the UPS guy knows where to leave the box of ammo lol
Ditto on the Rangers propensity to not expand. And they are impossible to find. If the HST ever dries up, I feel that any of the others in this video will suffice.
Another great video. Quick, to the point, factual information backed up with test results. Exactly how one should base their decisions when considering something as important as the ammo they choose to protect their lives with.
Federal HST for me, and anything over 124gr, but that's just my 2 cents. Totally agree on carrying 9mm for shot placement, rapid fire, low recoil and all that other good stuff. Thanks for every video you've done. Always professional, accurate and full of good info.
DAMN! You dissected the hell out of that ammo review! I too carry either a G19 or a G26 .... Depending on the mode of transportation (car or Motorcycle) I do carry self defense ammo but I rarely use it as I shoot FMJ when I am at the range. My EDC ammo is 9MM +P Luger 115 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Magtech. I have shot a few rounds to see what it feels like but at $12 per 25 rnds at the time of purchase in 2011 I dont shoot it much. I also never thought to use 147gr other than in my suppressor
Through my research (mostly your videos) I've compiled my list of carry ammo options. Hornady critical duty, speed gold dot, federal hst/hyrdashock, and underwood extreme defender.
I've heard reports such as this from the medical field, but what we don't know is what ammo was used, and shot placement. I have personally spoken with people who were shot lower COM with 9mm FMJ. Spent a day or two in the hospital, then went home. No recurring issues. There are also published incidents of people being shot with 9mm, one shot to the heart, or a stomach shot......and they were gone. Or one shot with a .22LR.....gone. These stories will circulate for EVERY caliber.
Other than .45 ACP, I'm not forecasting any short barrel vids in the short or even long term. Check out PocketGunsandGear channel; he's doing a lot of short barrel testing in clear gel.
Very well done, If I had a quarter everytime someone ask my what ammo I use.....,, I am mainly a 45 acp guy as you know, but my choices are right up there with yours on the 9mm if and when I carry one. Spot on, and great vid as always! Scuba
Excellent video and all of the above ammunition is acceptable to me. I actually use the Hornady Critical Duty +P. Not only does it perform very well but I get it for less than 50 cents a round. I saw some testing a few years ago that showed it passing all the FBI tests, including the windshield test, with adequate expansion. Keep up the good work and thank you.
Your videos are always very informative and I use PDX-1 as my EDC at the moment though I always was very fond of those HST's you've mentioned. Again, thanks and keep doing amazing videos! :)
I have always used Gold Dot 124 gr. +P and have been very happy with it. The selling point for me is consistency and reliability. Having said that, you make a great point when you say you should have more then one. I will be shooting some Critical Duty, and Federal HST to see what my carry gun and I like. Thanks for the excellent video.
tnoutdoors9 I really like your videos , they have often helped me out when choosing HP ammo to carry as I can see what the bullet will actually do. It would be nice to see more in the future but if not that's cool to and big thanks for the ones that you have posted thus far !!!!
HST's are good to go in my book, any weight, any caliber.
Yessir
Agreed.
I really like the scientific approach you take to your videos. It carries a lot more weight than just "I like these bullets."
I feel the same way he's so professional about it. All the other channels are weak in one way or another compared to this one. tnoutdoors9 we will miss you, and thanks for coming back to the comments section now and then. that's cool of you to do!
Same here
I have been in law enforcement for years and I have changed my current carry load just based on your test. Thanks for your excellent videos and may GOD bless you and your family.
Steve, congratulations for being a member of an agency which allows you choice in the matter rather than deciding from on high.
In my opinion HST is superior, it's what I carry. And when in full bloom it's a work of art.
thank you for all the hard work you put into your videos
+Mark Pelenytschka I echo this! Your hard work is evidenced by the excellence of your video!
Mark Pelenytschka cute dog
I agree
4K likes with only 28 dislikes... Testament to the superb professionalism, attention to detail, and extremely useful information. Good on ya...
You have by far, the best ammunition reviews on UA-cam. Thanks for all your hard work. It makes a big difference for guys needing real life data on their ammo. Great Job and please keep them coming.
Still enjoying and highly appreciative of the videos on your channel. I regularly go back to recap on some of the older Vids. Always look forward to new ones you release.
Thank you for the great video. I'm ever so slowly moving towards the 9mm, something I never thought I'd ever do. Your videos have helped me with my ammo choice for a good while now and I always look forward to watching them,
Nice evaluation. I carry the HST 147 grain in all my 9mm guns. I've also run the same weight Gold Dots when I could not find any HSTs.
"A side of beef with clothes"......you just described one of my relatives.
After some research, I carry the Hornady Critical Duty, and I'll explain why.
I live at over a mile of elevation in the northern US. We have at least 8 months out of the year where it's cold enough for heavy winter coats to be necessary daily, and many days where it's cold enough that people will bundle up with even more layers underneath.
People say that the 4 layers of denim test is unrealistic because of too much fabric, but for me it's really not enough.
Consider someone wearing a winter parka, or a Carhartt type coat. They have the outer layer of heavy duck or canvas fabric, the insulation, and the liner. 3 layers right there, and the insulation can be anything from wool to down. It's often quite thick.
Under that, it would not at all be uncommon for someone to wear either a fleece jacket, a sweatshirt, a flannel or a thermal shirt. Another layer of fabric. Under that, a t-shirt or undershirt.
That is FIVE layers, some of them very thick. That's not even to mention the possibility of shooting through some other sort of barrier to even get to the bundled up bad guy.
So I need a bullet that I can be certain can punch through all of that and still work. Hence, the Critical Duty. The flex tip means it won't clog on thick fabric, and it's barrier penetration seems excellent. Expansion is on the low side, sure, but it will expand every time. With a traditional hollowpoint, I wouldn't be sure that it would expand at all in that much padding.
The Critical Duty is expensive, but for where I live and the conditions I face here, it seems the best possible choice for handgun ammo. It wouldn't surprise me at all to see the rubber tip become the standard sometime down the road, as it seems to prevent the clogging problem hollowpoints can have.
I think far too many people look at things in a vacuum and don't consider their own situations and needs. That is a mistake, and one that could end up being fatal.
Indeed , local conditions of 10 months of winter, and 2 months of late fall are important consideration .
Not to be facetious , but but that could suggest that .45acp or .357 mag could be better than 9mm .
Wow, you have an excellent shot placement ,man; and with one hand! Applause
Officially a HST fan,thanks again for the very useful video.
Good evening;
I have been watching your videos for a few years now and have found them fascinating.
They have truly caused me to rethink a lot of my ill conceived notions of what pistol ammunition can and can not do. I'm a firearms instructor for my agency and never knew or was trained in the ballistics that I have learned from your channel. Thank you for all of your hard work and extreme diligence.
On duty, I am required to carry issued ammunition but off duty the choice of caliber and ammunition is up to the Officer. You have helped me make better choices then what is issued.
No plans for either at this time, but I can tell you that my preferences will lean toward the same products you viewed here. In .40, 165 or 180 gr, and 230 in .45.
I've tested very little CorBon in a gel format, but in years past, before UA-cam, I did ALOT in wetpack. I've had feed issues with their JHP's catching on the feed ramp. Jacket separation. Velocities are usually good.
I've watched all of these videos before, but this format was short and concise and I really appreciated it. Thank you for this synopsis, definitely going to look for this rounds here shortly.
Thanks for the feedback. I spent most of last weekend working on this but it wasn't quite ready before I had to go dormant for several days. I was concerned about the 70+ screen changes, but after watching some commercials this week and noting that a 30 second spot has 20+ changes, and a 1 minute commercial has 40 to 50, I stopped worrying about the structure.
Thanks for the time and effort you put into the videos.
I always check your videos when I am going to purchase any self defense ammo . The videos are a great visual point in researching ammo.
Excellent video. I carry the Critical Duty 135gr +p in an EDC role. Your first video on that product is what sold me. The content you publish is second to none.
Now that's a well laid out presentation of EDC ammo!! Great information, simple, clear and too the point. I agree with most of the choices here having tried 4 of them myself. Subscribed!
Thank you for all you do... Get well my friend. God speed and God Bless America.
I always enjoy the wealth of observations you make available to us in your reviews, allowing users to diligently research their own options armed with knowledge from a respectable fellow operator . Thank you sir !
Brilliant video, great articulation of data.
Agreed
Nice to see an evaluation of several brands with pros and negatives. I have fired boxs of hollow points from 95 to 147 gr in 9MM. In my limited experience the 124 gr Federal and Winchester worked best for me but all had 3" clusters at 45'. All worked well in my firearm and it is a good feeling that a variety of ammo runs and shoots well at distances and gun I am comfortable with.
Thanks for your excellent work.
Doran
Is this still your pick for EDC carry ammo in 2019?
Thank you so much for the info. I totally agree with your assessment. The HST standard Velocity is one of the best all around defense ammo and yes, it is quite hard to come by.
This is THE channel to recommend when anyone brings up carry ammo. Thank you for all your work
Thank you for making a video that quickly and clearly lists the advertised and measured velocities, showed the before and after of the projectile and shows that measured wound tract. For multiple loads. Rather than having to write a bunch of stuff down so you can compare after watching 10 different videos to compare 10 different rounds.
I have been carrying federal xst 124gr standard pressure. Hopefully I never have to use it.
Sorry *hst*
I trust you with my life, your comments and tests help me make solid decisions when buying life saving ammo. THANK YOU.
Love this guys no bs analysis...
Thank you Tnoutdoors9 for making ammo testing/review videos. I really have learned alot about ammo from you. If it wasn't for you I would'nt have known what to carry and have the knowledge. Again thank you, I really appreciated it.
Excellent overview! You always seem to do more than your share of homework prior to putting out a video. It is appreciated. I have not shot +p ammo out of my Glock thus far but last night there was a sale on Magtech for 20 rounds for $11.48 per box and that was a no brainer. Thanks for sharing.
Appreciate your videos. One of the most unbiased forms of information on a subject out there. I wish all products were evaluated in the same manner.
Fabulous, straight-forward video. This channel never disappoints!
I just picked up two boxes of 9mm Gold Dot 'Short Barrel' for my M&P Shield. It's the first time i've seen it since the beginning of the year. Just this month, i've been able to find every type of defensive ammo i've seen you test in 9mm, except for the Ranger series. Thanks for providing such valuable information!
I agree with your choices and if I were to make a list, mine would be similar. The HST in 147 is a great choice. Very low recoil and flash. The HST bullet in my own tests expanded quickly, and wide, even at low velosities while the GD and the Rangers seem to need a more velosity to really expand, and expand slower as they pass through. Light HST's due to the fast and rapid expansion tend to stop short, but dump energy fast. Good review, the only thing Id like to see is how the HST 147 does in the G43.
What an outstanding overview of your best test results in 9mm self defense ammo!
By my count there were 73 individual scene changes in this video and I consider this your best editing and voice-over work to date. My favorite scene was right in the beginning when you positively burned down those two steel IDPA targets from inside the guard shack!!! I didn't even realize this was file footage until the second time around; no leaves on the trees!
I wrote the ammunition specs for years for my federal agency and am amazed at how far hollow point design has come. However, there was a “Quantum Leap” (IMO) in terminal ballistics with the advent of Lehigh projectiles as loaded by Underwood. The “Extreme” series is, IMO, absolutely amazing in the area of terminal ballistics. The Extreme series is a solid copper projectile with “Flutes” that causes both tissue and fluid to be propelled out radially, thereby causing a larger and longer than normal wound channel. Paul Harrel did test of the Underwood 65 grain Extreme Defender that will explain better than I can just how effective this type of ammunition can be.
An excellent and well informed argument for your carry choices. I wish all You Tube gun and ammo videos were this well reasoned.
I have basically the same list, with 124gr +p and 147gr Ranger-T added in, along with the Cor Bon 115gr DPX.
Thanks for a great video.
The 9mm is my routine everyday carry handgun.
When I need something larger, I carry a 45acp.
When I need something smaller, I carry a 380acp or a 25acp.
In my 4-inch HK USP 9mm, I usually carry one of the following 147 grain jacked hollow point ammunition:
1. Federal HST
2. Speer Gold Dot
3. Hornaday XTP
4. Winchester Silver Tip
5. Remington Bonded
A very timely video. I was browsing on Midway USA for self defense ammo over the last few weeks. I went back and forth and back and forth on various brands, finally threw my arms up in the air and grabbed some Hornady and Fiocchi XTP.
The Gold Dot 124 +p gas probably seen the most LE use, so its performance is the best known. I tend to gravitate toward it. All are great choices. The deeper penetrating loads are something to consider for wintertime especially. Love all your testing and research. STAY SAFE!!
Your tests have convinced me to switch to the Critical Duty 135+p, thanks for all your awesome videos
Their loads are generally driven to or beyond the velocity threshold for expansion. If they loaded Gold Dots, for example, closer to manufacturer specs, possibly a tad bit faster, I would consider it. But only if the OEM products are not available.
Awesome review. Better put together than any t.v. show I've seen and nothing but facts. 100% correct in your review
Just as I appreciate all of your expansion and penetration gel tests regarding various caliber and manufacturer rounds, I appreciate you putting this video together very much as well. With all of the choices out there these days, thanks for breaking it down to "the bare essentials" of what you rely on.
As a new shooter and every day carrier I really appreciate your videos and the lengths you go to to test ammunition. Keep up the great work!
Wonderful, professionally done video. Partly or perhaps the main reason for my choice of EDC load was due to your videos. I currently carry the Hornady 9mm +P Critical Duty. It has been available in large quantities from internet stores in the 50rd boxes at very good prices (as low as $26.95). Thank you for all of your excellent work.
your channel is the first I look at before buying my EDC ammo. Good job.
I tested some in wetpack BFYT.....Before UA-cam. I seem to recall some fragmentation and jacket separation.
Seems like to me you can get a 9mm round that expands big or bigger then a 45acp I don't know why people bash the 9mm round but it's all opinion
There's a reason even the FBI is going back to the 9mm. It's a proven round, penetration is as good as anything else, and faster follow up shots are desirable in a LE or defensive situation. The .45 guys are "compensating".
How are measurable statistics "opinion"? It's not all opinion. There is an answer.
I mean the 45 acp's expanded to .897" diameter in TN's testing. thats a massive area increase.... infact its .632in^2 versus .346in^2 or an 82% increase in cutting diameter. So if shot placement is key then you have a better chance of shooting at a vital and actually hitting it. Inherently more bleeding and blood pressure drop even if it doesnt hit vital. At the slower velocity of 45 less material is pushed around the bullet. so the slow speed actually helps it cut what it touches. You'll also need a rifle or minimum 357 magnum if you want a chance at actually damaging internals with cavitation... I dont own 45acp but theres some serious merit to it with an HST.
You are my number 1 go-to resource for handgun ammo selection.
Tn, in my assessment of your presentation of the facts I would lend credence to what you suggest above the other presentations I have seen thus far. I look forward to your videos and often refer back to them for the information contained therein. Keep up the great job as you seem to answer the questions about ammo that most of us do not have resources to answer. If there is a better commentator on the subject, I have not seen their work yet. You should have a television show, you are that good.
Thanks for all your AWESOME ammo review video's!! I always check out your video's before I purchase any self-defense ammo for my guns. This helped clear up what I will purchase for my new 9mm M&P Sheild! THANKS AGAIN!!!
I carry Golden Saber 124gr +P in my Glock 19. Great video. The quality and narration were excellent and of professional standards. Thank you for posting it.
New first time owner. Saw that your name had TN, of course I watched your channel. Learn from neighbors! Thanks for your research! I wrote them down haha now to price match sites lol.
Thanks for this one, TN. After all the great testing data points you've furnished, this is a great summary of how all that shakes out in the mind of the tester. Great video :)
I have carried 147 +p in HST for years and recommend them to everyone. HST is all I carry in any EDC platform, and is becoming available for revolvers as well. When I can't get HST for a particular revolver or rare caliber, Sig V crown is almost identical, but is not often available in the higher grain weights as HST but often has more caliber choices. Good job!
Hello TN. Just thought I'd take a moment to give you two thumbs up on this video. I've been been following you for about the last year and your videos seem to be getting better and better. The production quality of this video in particular, is as good as anyone's in the world. Keep up the good work. Also, I rotate 4 of 5 you recommend amongst my EFC's.
This popped up in suggested videos. Miss ya man!
I don't have that problem around here, but possibly a 200 gr XTP or Gold Dot, in the event you aren't carrying a shotgun with 00 or 000 buckshot. 10mm would seem to be better than a .45 in that case.
Good choice. I carry a Glock 45 MOS full of Underwood 9mm 147gr. +P+ using Speer Gold Dot bullets. Spare mags are charged with Federal 124gr. +P and other mag is loaded with Speer Gold Dot 124gr. +P. I carry 60 rounds on my person. 18 in the firearm and two ETS mags of 21 rounds each.
Best ammo videos on the Tube. Lots of information presented quickly.
Fantastic quality video, well produced and edited. I highly respect and thank you for sharing your test, research, and educated opinion. I too agree, those are all good loads for edc and hd.
I plan on carrying a 9mm when I get my CC permit (6 months and waiting). This video is very informative. Thank you. Your ammo tests, especially in different calibers, mirror law enforcements reasons for sticking with the 9mm.
Great video as usual! What is your take on the 124 grain HST? That is the only 9mm HST I have been able to find in my area.
My EDC is Hornady Critical Duty. Some people say it over- penetrates but it's designed to shoot through windshields doors and such before it hits its Target.
Hornady just signed a big contract to supply that ammo for the FBI. I buy a box every time I see a box because now that they do have that contract those bullets are going to be harder to find. I've already noticed it but I still keep it in my gun all the time.
I spend a whole lot of time in the outdoors and the woods. I'm more likely to run across dangerous animals than I am dangerous human so that extra penetration and thump works just fine for me. I can't say I target practice much with it because they are getting much harder to find.
My everyday carry gun is a Springfield Hellcat and although I've got very used to the gun it's going to probably get an upgraded Apex Trigger.
I probably will get a Glock 19 someday. I don't think they can be beat for durability and my gun is always on my side. I believe I would keep a Glock 19 in my bug out bag. Well, what I consider my three day bug out bag. Seems everybody has a different opinion how long you should last on the run in a bug-out bag. I also have a huge backpack that I can't really say how long I could survive out in the wilderness with if it don't die just trying to get to my destination because it's heavy!
You all have a great day and God bless America!
In .45 ACP, my choices would be similar with regard to product.....230 gr Gold Dot, 230 gr HST, or 220 gr Critical Duty....and doesn't matter what barrel length.
Any backup mag with something other than what you just unloaded in the primary could offer a different level of recoil. You have already sold yourself on Critical Duty. That being the case, and if price is a barrier with the other products, no pun intended, then simply stock up on Hornady and avoid the second guessing your decision. While the Critical Duty easily met my penetration criteria, it does score points for availability and price; IMO to a higher degree than the other options.
This is the standard now for EDC ammo videos. Very cool and good job!
Outstanding video. I concur with all of your choices and would have no issue carrying any of them. I carry the critical duty 135+p myself right now, easy for me to find and function flawlessly in my M&P 9c.
I used to carry 124 grn +P in the HST but after watching tests, reading ATK's actual testing material (which is GREAT) on their site plus watching their videos, and doing some testing of my own I switched to the 147 grain standard pressure about 18 months ago. Great quality, never a hitch, controllable recoil, no muzzle flash, and the BEST price per round of all of these super premium self defense loads.
My only experience with speer gold dot, was a full mag of 16 rnds that came with my SW9V when I bought it. Half the mag did not go bang with the other half consistently ftf, FTE, stove piping, and general jamming. I now only run hornady critical duty 147 grain ballistic tips. Never a dull moment with those.
Sir thank you for the video. Once again I am inspired by your work. it is excellent in all details. as it turns out I am carrying the speer 124+p as my edc. I carry this load form watching and studying your videos. I showed your videos to a friend in the television industry who is pro A2. He said that you would win multiple Emmys if you were on television. I also like the way the UPS guy knows where to leave the box of ammo lol
My God your videos are always so Great love the education Thank you
Ditto on the Rangers propensity to not expand. And they are impossible to find. If the HST ever dries up, I feel that any of the others in this video will suffice.
No plans to test any more Silvertips in any caliber.
Thank you! This is a GREAT overview, of very good ammunition choices and why one would choose them!
That's such a mixed bag, it comes down to personal preference. I have owned all those models in Gen3. Either the G19 or G23 would likely be my choice.
Another great video. Quick, to the point, factual information backed up with test results. Exactly how one should base their decisions when considering something as important as the ammo they choose to protect their lives with.
Federal HST for me, and anything over 124gr, but that's just my 2 cents. Totally agree on carrying 9mm for shot placement, rapid fire, low recoil and all that other good stuff. Thanks for every video you've done. Always professional, accurate and full of good info.
DAMN! You dissected the hell out of that ammo review!
I too carry either a G19 or a G26 .... Depending on the mode of transportation (car or Motorcycle) I do carry self defense ammo but I rarely use it as I shoot FMJ when I am at the range. My EDC ammo is 9MM +P Luger 115 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Magtech. I have shot a few rounds to see what it feels like but at $12 per 25 rnds at the time of purchase in 2011 I dont shoot it much. I also never thought to use 147gr other than in my suppressor
Through my research (mostly your videos) I've compiled my list of carry ammo options. Hornady critical duty, speed gold dot, federal hst/hyrdashock, and underwood extreme defender.
I have room for one or two of not heavy for caliber in my top 5. The HST 124 +P would be in my top 10.
I've heard reports such as this from the medical field, but what we don't know is what ammo was used, and shot placement. I have personally spoken with people who were shot lower COM with 9mm FMJ. Spent a day or two in the hospital, then went home. No recurring issues. There are also published incidents of people being shot with 9mm, one shot to the heart, or a stomach shot......and they were gone. Or one shot with a .22LR.....gone. These stories will circulate for EVERY caliber.
What kind of gun is this? In that case, standard pressure 124 gr, such as a Gold Dot. They are tougher to find than the +P variety.
Hey Tnoudoors, a very well put together video! As always you are very articulate and you always pack lots of great information in. Thanks
Thank you for your great reviews! Critical duty for winter. HST summer here
I settled on the hornady and winchester and always was interested in the gold dot. Like your videos for a number of reasons.
Other than .45 ACP, I'm not forecasting any short barrel vids in the short or even long term. Check out PocketGunsandGear channel; he's doing a lot of short barrel testing in clear gel.
Very well done, If I had a quarter everytime someone ask my what ammo I use.....,, I am mainly a 45 acp guy as you know, but my choices are right up there with yours on the 9mm if and when I carry one. Spot on, and great vid as always!
Scuba
I agree. I wouldn't feel hampered by any of those rounds you've shown. All top shelf product.
Excellent video and all of the above ammunition is acceptable to me. I actually use the Hornady Critical Duty +P. Not only does it perform very well but I get it for less than 50 cents a round. I saw some testing a few years ago that showed it passing all the FBI tests, including the windshield test, with adequate expansion. Keep up the good work and thank you.
Your videos are always very informative and I use PDX-1 as my EDC at the moment though I always was very fond of those HST's you've mentioned. Again, thanks and keep doing amazing videos! :)
I have always used Gold Dot 124 gr. +P and have been very happy with it. The selling point for me is consistency and reliability.
Having said that, you make a great point when you say you should have more then one. I will be shooting some Critical Duty, and Federal HST to see what my carry gun and I like.
Thanks for the excellent video.
tnoutdoors9 I really like your videos , they have often helped me out when choosing HP ammo to carry as I can see what the bullet will actually do. It would be nice to see more in the future but if not that's cool to and big thanks for the ones that you have posted thus far !!!!