Handgun Ammo – Find the Right Rounds for Your Firearm

Handgun ammunition is essential for self-defense, target shooting, and competitive shooting. Choosing the right type of ammo can improve accuracy and safety. It also helps you get the best performance from your firearm. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced shooter, the right handgun ammo is important. It can make a significant impact.

Ammunition comes in different calibers, bullet types, and power levels, so it’s important to understand your options before making a purchase.

Common Handgun Ammo Calibers

Handgun ammo comes in various sizes, known as calibers. The caliber refers to the diameter of the bullet and plays a major role in performance, recoil, and stopping power. Here are some of the most widely used calibers:

1. 9mm Luger

• One of the most popular handgun calibers worldwide.
• Used by military, law enforcement, and civilians.
• Offers a good balance of power, accuracy, and manageable recoil.
• Ideal for self-defense, target practice, and competitions.

2. .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol)

• Known for its stopping power and deep penetration.
• Used by the U.S. military and law enforcement for decades.
• Generates more recoil than 9mm but is highly effective in self-defense situations.

3. .40 S&W (Smith & Wesson)

• Designed as a middle ground between 9mm and .45 ACP.
• Commonly used by police forces.
• Offers good stopping power with moderate recoil.

4. .380 ACP

• A compact, lightweight round perfect for concealed carry handguns.
• Less powerful than 9mm but easier to handle.
• Often used in small pocket pistols.

5. .357 Magnum

• A high-velocity round used in revolvers.
• Extremely powerful with excellent accuracy.
• Commonly used for self-defense and hunting small game.

6. .38 Special

• A classic revolver cartridge known for its mild recoil and accuracy.
• Used for target shooting, self-defense, and law enforcement backup weapons.

Each caliber has its own benefits, and the best choice depends on your firearm, intended use, and comfort level with recoil.

Types of Handgun Bullets

The bullet type impacts how the ammunition performs. Some are designed for training, while others are built for defense or competition. Here are the main types of bullets used in handgun ammo:

1. Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)

• Most commonly used for practice and training.
• Features a lead core covered in a harder metal shell.
• Affordable, widely available, and great for high-volume shooting.

2. Hollow Point (HP)

• Designed to expand on impact, creating a larger wound channel.
• Commonly used for self-defense and law enforcement.
• Reduces the risk of over-penetration, making it safer for defensive use.

3. Soft Point (SP)

• Similar to hollow points but with a partially exposed lead tip.
• Expands more slowly than hollow points, making it effective for hunting.

4. Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP)

• Combines the benefits of FMJ and HP rounds.
• Offers deep penetration with controlled expansion.
• Ideal for self-defense situations.

Understanding the differences in bullet types helps ensure you choose the right ammunition for your specific needs.

How to Choose the Right Handgun Ammo

Picking the right ammo depends on your purpose. Here’s a guide to help you make the best choice:

• For Self-Defense: Hollow points (HP or JHP) are the best choice because they expand on impact, reducing the risk of over-penetration.
• For Target Practice & Training: Full metal jacket (FMJ) rounds are cost-effective and provide reliable performance for frequent shooting.
• For Competitive Shooting: Match-grade ammunition is specifically designed for accuracy and consistency in competitions.
• For Hunting: Soft point (SP) or jacketed hollow point (JHP) rounds provide excellent stopping power.

Choosing quality ammunition ensures safety, performance, and reliability every time you pull the trigger.

Popular Handgun Ammo Brands

There are many well-known ammunition manufacturers that produce reliable handgun rounds. Some of the top brands include:

• Federal Premium – Known for high-quality self-defense and hunting ammo.
• Winchester – One of the oldest and most trusted ammo brands, producing reliable rounds for all purposes.
• Remington – Offers a variety of handgun cartridges for target shooting, hunting, and self-defense.
• Hornady – Specializes in advanced bullet technology, including hollow points and high-performance hunting ammo.
• Speer – Famous for its Gold Dot self-defense ammunition used by law enforcement.
• Sig Sauer – Produces high-quality ammunition designed for performance and accuracy.

These brands have been tested and trusted by shooters for decades, ensuring reliability when it matters most.

Handgun Ammo Safety Tips

Using ammunition safely is just as important as choosing the right type. Here are some key safety practices to follow:

• Store ammo in a cool, dry place to prevent deterioration.
• Use the correct caliber for your firearm – never force the wrong ammo into a gun.
• Keep ammunition away from heat or flames to avoid accidental ignition.
• Inspect rounds before loading – check for dents, cracks, or defects.
• Wear eye and ear protection when shooting to protect against noise and debris.

Following these guidelines helps prevent accidents and ensures a safe shooting experience.

Where to Buy Handgun Ammo

Whether you need self-defense rounds, target practice ammo, or competition-grade cartridges, choosing high-quality ammunition is essential.

Ammunition quality affects accuracy, reliability, and overall performance. Buying from a trusted supplier ensures you get the best products for your shooting needs.

Browse our selection and find the perfect handgun ammo for your firearm.