Handgun Ammo in USA

Handguns are an essential tool for personal protection and recreational shooting in the United States. As a result, handgun ammo is in high demand, and there are many options available for consumers. With so many different types of handgun ammo on the market, it can be challenging to know which one is right for you. In this definitive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about handgun ammo in the USA, including the different types, calibers, and brands available.

Handgun Ammo

Handgun ammo, also known as pistol or revolver ammo, is ammunition designed for use in handguns. Handguns are classified as small arms and can be used for self-defense, sport, or recreation. The most common types of handgun ammo used in the USA are the .22LR, 9mm, .45 ACP, .38 Special, and .357 Magnum.

There are many factors to consider when choosing handgun ammo, including the intended use, accuracy, and power of the round. Each caliber has its own unique advantages and disadvantages, so it is essential to choose the one that fits your needs.

Types of Handgun Ammo

Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)

Full metal jacket (FMJ) ammo is the most common type of handgun ammo on the market. FMJ rounds are designed with a lead core covered in a copper or steel jacket. The jacket helps the round maintain its shape, increases penetration, and reduces fouling in the barrel. FMJ rounds are generally used for target shooting and training due to their affordability and reliability.

Hollow Point (HP)

Hollow point (HP) ammo is designed to expand upon impact, causing greater damage to the target. HP rounds are commonly used for self-defense because they are more effective at stopping an attacker than FMJ rounds. HP rounds are also more expensive than FMJ rounds.

Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP)

Jacketed hollow point (JHP) ammo is similar to HP ammo, but the lead core is covered in a jacket like FMJ rounds. JHP rounds are more reliable than HP rounds and are commonly used for self-defense and law enforcement purposes.

Soft Point (SP)

Soft point (SP) ammo is designed with a lead core exposed at the tip of the round. The exposed lead allows the round to expand upon impact, causing greater damage to the target. SP rounds are commonly used for hunting because they are more effective at taking down large game.

Lead Round Nose (LRN)

Lead round nose (LRN) ammo is designed with a lead core and a rounded nose. LRN rounds are commonly used for target shooting because they are inexpensive and produce less recoil than other types of ammo.

Calibers of Handgun Ammo

Caliber is the measurement of a round’s diameter. The most common calibers of handgun ammo used in the USA are:

• .22LR
• 9mm
• .45 ACP
• .38 Special
• .357 Magnum

Each caliber has its own unique advantages and disadvantages. The .22LR is the smallest and least powerful caliber, making it an excellent choice for target shooting and plinking. The 9mm is the most popular caliber in the USA and is commonly used for self-defense and law enforcement purposes. The .45 ACP is a larger caliber and is known for its stopping power. The .38 Special and .357 Magnum are both popular calibers for revolver enthusiasts.

Brands of Handgun Ammo

There are many brands of handgun ammo available in the USA, but some of the most popular include:

More Popular Brands of Handgun Ammo in USA

Federal Premium

Federal Premium is a well-known brand in the USA that produces a wide variety of ammunition, including handgun ammo. Their HST line of ammo is popular among law enforcement agencies for its reliable expansion and stopping power.

Remington

Remington is one of the oldest and most well-established brands of ammunition in the USA. They offer a wide range of handgun ammo, including the popular Golden Saber line, which is designed for self-defense.

Hornady

Hornady is a popular brand of ammunition that is known for producing high-quality ammo with excellent accuracy and stopping power. Their Critical Defense line of ammo is popular among self-defense enthusiasts for its reliability and performance.

Speer

Speer is a respected brand of ammunition that produces a wide variety of handgun ammo, including the Gold Dot line, which is known for its accuracy and stopping power.

Buying Handgun Ammo in USA

When buying handgun ammo in the USA, there are several factors to consider. It is essential to choose the right caliber and type of ammo for your intended use, whether it is self-defense, target shooting, or hunting. It is also important to buy ammo from a reputable brand and to consider the price, as some types of ammo can be more expensive than others.

Most states in the USA allow the purchase of handgun ammo without a permit or license, but it is important to check local laws before making a purchase. Some states may require a permit or background check to buy ammo, and some types of ammo may be restricted in certain areas.

Frequently Asked Questions about Handgun Ammo in USA

Q: Can I buy handgun ammo online in the USA?

A: Yes, you can buy handgun ammo online in the USA. However, it is important to buy from a reputable retailer and to follow all local laws and regulations.

Q: How much does handgun ammo cost in the USA?

A: The cost of handgun ammo in the USA can vary depending on the type, brand, and quantity. On average, FMJ rounds can cost anywhere from $0.20 to $0.50 per round, while HP and JHP rounds can cost upwards of $1.00 per round.

Q: What is the most popular caliber of handgun ammo in the USA?

A: The most popular caliber of handgun ammo in the USA is the 9mm. It is commonly used for self-defense, law enforcement, and target shooting.

Q: Can I reload handgun ammo in the USA?

A: Yes, you can reload handgun ammo in the USA, but it requires specialized equipment and knowledge. It is important to follow all safety procedures and to use only high-quality components when reloading ammo.

Q: What is the best type of handgun ammo for self-defense?

A: The best type of handgun ammo for self-defense is a hollow point (HP) or jacketed hollow point (JHP) round. These rounds are designed to expand upon impact, causing greater damage to the target.

Q: What is the difference between +P and +P+ ammo?

A: +P and +P+ ammo are both higher-pressure rounds that produce greater velocity and energy than standard rounds. However, +P+ rounds are loaded to a higher pressure than +P rounds and should only be used in firearms that are specifically designed for them.

Conclusion

Choosing the right handgun ammo is essential for personal protection, target shooting, and hunting. With so many different types, calibers, and brands of handgun ammo available in the USA, it can be challenging to know which one is right for you. By considering the intended use, a