Six Things to Consider When Choosing Self-Defense Handgun Ammunition

[milkmanjoe]

Originally Posted by IamCaleb

Let's discuss this point. I would buy the most expensive SD ammo out there to run in my pistol IF, that ammo actually performs the best out of all other rounds. In other words, will a $50 box of ammo perform better than a box of $20? I have found this to not be true in my search for the best carry ammo. I have chosen Fed HST as my preferred brand because of it's performance (reviewed and tested by several people) and reliability in my EDC. Expansion is great, no jacket separation, 12+ penetration, ect..... With that said, I can usually find a box of 50 for around $30-$34 each. That's $.60 per round....Clearly not the most expensive SD ammo out there but, show me one that performs better and I will revisit my choice.

Also, I don't know about everyone else but, I like to run up to 3-500 rounds of ammo through my pistol before I decide to use as my SD load. Testing different loads would get real expensive, then. Right now I'm using Win PDX1 230gr HP because, I can't seem to find the HST's in the 50rd boxes. The PDX1 is my second choice and is carried by wally world.

I would like to hear everyone's opinion on this matter. So, speak up!

The HST's in 147 grain(9mm) are great loads. They currently reside in my G17's that I toggle between.
I would also use Winchester Ranger T's 9mm 147grain
My Carry 1911's are Winchester Ranger T for full size 1911 230gr HP
For a 4.25 barrel 1911 I use Winchester Ranger T 230gr HP +P
HST's in .45 would be my second, Ammunition Depot has them right now. I am flush with SD ammo, not buying.

Money doesn't mean crap to me when buying SD ammo. Reliability from the gun and reliability in depth and expansion do. I do not worry about accuracy as I do not believe any of the brand name SD ammos I would consider could be inaccurate in SD distances. During Winter up in SC I carry .45 ball ammo due to people wearing heavy clothing, and being fat. Lotta fat people up there. I also lube with oil only as grease could slow the slide function and cause a malf at the wrong time. The ammo is only a part of the equation for me.