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Coincidentally, I've been considering adding one of my 9mm's into the CCW rotation. What is generally considered the best bullet weight for defense in 9mm? 115, 124, or 147?
There's a lot more of us ugly mf'ers out here than there are of you pretty people!
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Scrotum Diem - bag the day!
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Here's the common sense answer:
You don't know the dynamics of any situation in the future, ie...target thickness, if you will hit bone or not, how much clothing will they be wearing, where the bullet may deflect to, if you have to shoot through drywall/glass, etc... There are a million different variables you CANNOT predict. Since you don't know the exact circumstance you will be encountering, it's all a guess. As mentioned many times before, pick a well known brand that runs in your gun and fits your budget. Don't over think it. The object is to put lots of holes in the attacker, not debate over expansion or velocity or projectile weight. Be aware of your surroundings, including what is beyond your target and solve the issue.
Personally, I use what is used by a LE agency. Their attorneys have written their response when asked why they chose that brand of ammo so that saves me the hassle if I have to explain why in court. No need to reinvent the wheel.
Personally I prefer 124 and 147. With that said, the 147's must be the newer technology bullet, capable of expanding at lower 147 velocities. I'd suggest buying some of the 124 HST over at SGammo, and call it a day.Originally Posted by rondog
^^^^This. Excellent response.
I believe the current favorite bullet weights in 9mm are 115 and 124. Go +P in any brand name JHP. Buy a bunch and shoot the heck out of it.
Be safe.
I like Hornady critical defense. I also frequently carry federal bulk FMJs.
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I personally prefer Hornady Critical Duty for my 9mm. However, over penetration is not my concern. Remember that 9, 40, 45 all can take multiple hits before stopping the immediate threat. The one hit drops come from faster rounds that penetrate the life out of the bad guy and smash stuff behind him.
Know if that 124gr Federal HST is available locally? I hate to pay shipping (and hazmat?) on one measly box of ammo, can't afford to buy more. Especially when I have tons of 9mm plinking ammo loaded up and components to build thousands more.
There's a lot more of us ugly mf'ers out here than there are of you pretty people!
- Frank Zappa
Scrotum Diem - bag the day!
It's all shits and giggles until someone giggles and shits.....
Finished cartridges don't have hazmat fees, just powder and primers when not combined.
You don't have to pay hazmat on ammo, but shipping is usually ten bucks or so. You can but the 20 round boxes of HST at Cabelas, but the cost on those is a bit steep.
Yep. 147 gr is meant for sub guns (MP5 & such).
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