New Design VS Old Design .38 Special+P 110 gr - Hornady Critical Defense VS Remington HTP

Testing out some .38 Special+P ammunition in 110 gr. Seeing how the old school semi jacketed hollow point compares to the recent FTX bullet. The SJHP is Remington HTP rated at 995 FPS and the FTX is Hornady Critical Defense rated at 1,090 FPS. I do some chronograph work, a 10% Clear Ballistics test and some 25 yard accuracy drills. Always appreciative of any channel help :) www.patreon.co... Also a new part of info always shared, is that if you're wondering why I lean back when I shoot, I am not. • Shooting Stance "Lean"...

[@Fudmottin]

Wow! Thanks for the shout out. This is, I think, the first time I've seen two different cartridges perform so closely. I'd call it a dead heat. The Hornady is certainly nice with respect to carrying extra ammunition in a speed loader or speed strip of some kind. I do like that. The price might favor the HTP, but not by much. A few foot pounds energy difference even at this level is probably not enough to make a difference. And they all seemed to like hitting in the same place, at least with your guns. Talk about making a buying decision hard! LOL. I was predicting that one would be better than the other by enough to make it a clear choice. That is often the case. Not so much this time.

[@RandyWittmann]

Great video as always. I just was able to get the hornady for 24.99 a box

[@Fudmottin]

This is still a really good video. I was looking for another video that I can't seem to find (BB 19H test). Did you know I bought a ten box case of the CD ammo after this test? It shoots well in the super light M&P340.

[@MannixKnives]

Damn, these are both really impressive coming out of a snubby!

[@davehoward2791]

After watching this I bought 2 boxes of the 110gr +P HTP’s and stoked my four .38’s with them. Two snubbies and two 4” Mod 10’s I use for occasional carry and backup home defense. Along with the 2.5” Mod 66 .357 Mag loaded with 125gr SJHP HTP’s on my nightstand that is my primary home defense gun I sleep well every night. Thanks for the great videos Sam, we all owe you a beer. 👍

[@daymonmac6185]

Always been a fan of the old school HTP. Throughout the years, it still seems to perform just as well as the "higher tech" we have in ballistics today. This load gets the job done.

[@soyelmasguapo]

When the use of microfusion (MIM) in the manufacture of firearms was generally extended by weapon manufacturers since the early 1970s, and light aluminum alloy frames became popular, they observed that although They were construction techniques that managed to make firearms cheaper and reduce production times. They had certain material weaknesses that caused some parts to suffer premature fractures, cracks and wear. As it still had to spend a lot of time improving the MIM alloys and metallurgical techniques, the "gun industry lobby" managed to make a "high handed act" and in 1972 the Permanent International Commission on Firearms Testing and the SAAMI, which is who internationally establishes the approvals for cartridges, reduced the maximum pressure values ​​that these ammunition were capable of developing. In fact, the standard of the previous ammunition was higher to the point of being practically what is known today as "+P" (depending on the manufacturer's values) that were created for the needs of users, such as law enforcement, security professionals, armed forces, etc., who needed "full power" ammunition but with the tagline of not recommending at all the use of "+P" ammunition to avoid responsibilities in the after-sale for the deterioration of the weapons in their sales civilians under warranty. There are now many ammunitions with very powerful general purpose loads for use with any weapon thanks to metallurgical improvements and MIM process engineering by manufacturers (some more than others, as always). The fact is that the recurring question always arises whether a classic model from the "PRE-MIM" era (produced with classic forging and machining techniques) can regularly use "+P" ammunition. To answer this, it must be taken into account that for each of the ammunition manufacturers "+P" does not mean "exactly the same" and that in general, many of those ammunition are very close to the previous pressure values ​​for that cartridge. , and for which those weapons were designed. If you get one of those weapons in almost unused condition since many people almost never shoot their weapons and end up sleeping in a nightstand drawer for years, they are inherited, and if they exist and sometimes appear on the market, it could be used "+P" ammunition with values ​​close to those of the original standard without major concerns (do not forget that "+P" is not always the same for each manufacturer, and that is why no one undertakes to categorically say if that type of ammunition can be used in previous weapons due to the risk of a lawsuit from civilians). If we are talking about weapons whose use and history is unknown, we do not know the stress accumulated by the weapon and which generally cannot be observed with the naked eye, out of prudence I would not use "+P". If we are also talking about original models of a certain historical value for which it may even be difficult to obtain a replacement, we must be cautious and in addition to shooting it very sporadically, use the softest loads available for that cartridge. In short, use "+P" ammunition that most closely matches the original standard values ​​of the "pre-mim" era and be aware of the condition of your weapon. Regards!

[@sleepthoughamostqruelandde1116]

Damn... That's one of the greatest explanations of that I ever heard,clarified a few things for me. Much appreciated!!😊💯🤘☮️

[@MAG-li5jo]

THANKS Sam!!! I just bought some HTP for $11.99 a box.

[@The_Hi_Life]

I carry the Hornady ftx in my Taurus 856. I like it a lot, It’s very accurate and packs a punch!

[@ireckon4193]

I think it’s a good, fair comparison. I always try to pick a winner, but in this case I’d feel comfortable carrying either. In any case, either one would provide a major ouch factor. When thinking about self defense it can be easy to focus on penetration and maximum damage, but really the goal should be stopping an attack. I think we’d do well to switch our thinking from “shoot to kill” to “shoot to stop.”

[@Fudmottin]

I first heard of Claude Werner on a Lucky Gunner video in his first of a series of pocket pistols. He inspired me to rethink how I carry. Quite frankly, a medium sized 9mm + spare magazine is more than I want to go with. An alloy J-Frame with a speed strip is easy almost all the time. Of course everything is a compromise. Recoil is a thing with magnum loads. It's barely there with target loads. There is much room in-between.

[@GeographyCzar]

Brilliant test. My compliments to Fudmottin for talking you into this.

[@GunSam]

Thanks. His idea. I should listen to more ideas as mine often aren't as desired by other people.

[@Fudmottin]

@@GunSam LOL! This idea was inspired for the search for a low recoil load that could still be considered an effective carry round. I scoured KZbin. Hornady does have two standard pressure loads, the 110gr and a 90gr in a pink box called Critical Defense Lite. From what I've seen, the 110gr is as low as you want to go! The choices open up for the 125gr weight range. Although Speer does make 110gr GDHP bullets, I've not found any loaded ammunition from them. I'm not at all surprised to see this video doing well (*pats my back*). People who like light weight small revolvers but are not so keen on the recoil are going to find it a tremendous resource. I sure do. If I could have done the same testing, no one would see it. Thanks again, Sam.

[@farrismoore7524]

38 Hornady 110 +p baby that's the way to go💯 Good video Sam🔥🔥🔥🤪🤪🤪

[@GunSam]

Thanks

[@dangerman007]

I've been waiting for this test! I bought a bunch of Remington 125 grain and the guy I bought it from included a hundred rounds of the 110 grain by mistake. The more I thought about it, I thought this would make a great snub load because it would have a better chance of expanding. Turned out this is a good load! Thanks for testing this!

[@Fudmottin]

One thing I will say about these loads is that when your launch platform is a 340 scandium J-Frame, you appreciate the reduced recoil form a normal 125gr +P loading. How much that matters to different people, I can't say. But either of these 110s are what I would be inclined to carry over the 125s.

[@ratagris21]

Great testing Sam. Glad you have that 3in Taurus 856. Gives us a new prospective on the performance of these rounds, and the difference in barrel length can make a difference in some cases. 🎩♠🏁🎯🏵😎

[@timrobinson6573]

Kind of what one would expect. Being an older HP design, the HTP need more barrel length to expand properly. The Critical Defense expanded the same amount from both barrel lengths. The penetration of both was about the same but the CD penetration was more consistent in both barrel lengths. Not a lot of difference between the HTP and CD but the CD was more consistent all around.

[@johnochicago8457]

The penetration and accuracy was great. The Critical Defense is the most accurate round I've ever shot but I haven't shot the Remington yet. I have shot Remington in other loads and they are good rounds. Good video. Thanks!!

[@dmgthree6051]

Good stuff Sam , keep up the good work !

[@thebluesrockers]

your shot placement on this video was very impressive.

[@rangetime6779]

Great test! They seamed about the same but the Hornady has a bit better expansion and probably won't clog with different barriers. Keep up the great testing. I look forward to all your new tests.

[@frankbutta9344]

Thanks Sam. I’m using standard Critical Defense in my 2” Colt King Cobra Carry.

[@YellowHammer26]

Thanks Sam , both did really well which I was glad to see since I carry both those rounds in different revolvers 👍👍.

[@brodiddy877]

I love your set up on the gel blocks!

[@philiptheriault7953]

Thanx for the great review.remington green and white box 125 gr sjhp +p is all I load my 686 4" for defense.only deference is price point and no nickel case I believe. Damn good round

[@GunSam]

Thanks for watching. Yeah it's good stuff. The 125 gr seems better in my opinion, just more lead to mushroom. Won't expand much in a 2" but a 4" you got the right load for sure.

[@SuperSneakySteve]

A little difference can some times make all the difference. That's why I love 3" revolvers.

[@ripcanadams]

When you couldn’t find any 38spl awhile back I found that Hornady online and got a few boxes, I know it’s not the deepest penetrating round but it seems to expand well and you get at least 10” to 12” out of a snubbie which ain’t bad. Your testing verified that also so thanx. 👌

[@GunSam]

I always found .38 Special and never had a time I couldn't get it. But I was in a situation like you said, there was something I could always get. But for me I could always get like Underwood, Buffalo Bore and a few others. The choices were limited but never gone.

[@ruskyrosco1054]

I read a review you did on some ammo I think on midway then came across your videos. Great work, really appreciate your efforts.

[@plaid13]

Would be interesting to see something like this compared to just a lead cast wadcutter load.

[@mkshffr4936]

I agree direct comparison with HBWC and hard cast WC would be very useful information.

[@silenceismycanvas]

I'm a huge fan of Rem SJHP ammo. I have never seen a 110gr SJHP from them before. My ammo radar is up and running! Great comparison video. I do carry Hornady ammo as well in certain guns.

[@GunSam]

Thanks. I tested some 110 gr HTP a year or two ago, but it was standard pressure. I was surprised to see it in +P also.

[@michaelturner4680]

Agree totally with your comment about Taurus.

[@Predalien195]

About as I expected, Critical Defense was more consistent regardless of barrel length. It's often optimized for use in shorter barrels and in longer barrels it doesn't change much. The HTP needs a longer barrel for better expansion, which is no surprise being an older design as these were built around 4 inch service revolvers. Hard to say one is really "better" but I'd pick the Hornady for the consistency factor. As they say, good science is repeatable and I can guarantee the Hornady is as close to repeatable performance between the two cartridges regardless of the firearm. And some don't like that for whatever reason, me personally though I like to know that no matter what gun I select a particular load is going to perform well in that caliber and this is one such example.

[@skiphinson8620]

Great video! I really like your shooting range too. I sure do hate you’ve had a bad experience with your three inch Taurus 856. I’ve got a 2inch 856 and it’s been spot on every time and no malfunctions of any kind with a very nice trigger pull right out of the box.

[@TheRios7018]

Great video sir!👍🏼

[@YolooHuu]

Awesome testing! The CD performed very well but my magic number for the 38 special is 158 grains.

[@Fudmottin]

If you don't mind the cost, Buffalo Bore 20A is a 158gr LSWC-HP with gas check, soft cast. It can beat a lot of 9mm loads out of a short barrel. Bit of spice to it though.

[@WheelgunsOnWheels]

Great to see some .38 tests. Looks like a draw essentially. Good data as always.

[@richardcolligon4277]

Excellent review, it's amazing how much difference one more inch of barrel length make's in performance. Sorry I haven't been around for 1.5 month's, but I'm back.

[@DanTheWolfman]

SAM-This is HUGE! This Critical Defense data Proves my theory combined w All the HST data you have done that the 4 layer MDF data makes Clear Gel results amazingly close to Real Gel Results from VISTA/Hornady. HORNADY REAL gel w this round was 11.25 w/ .54 expansion so Very Similar overall Tissue Crush Values again...the Volume of a Cylinder how much tissue is destroyed ie how fast BP loss which drops bad guys EVENTUALLY! Also loved the Side view of PEC 3" you should hold that a few seconds after every 2 shots in your new protocol. Guys doing clear gel without clothing that doesn't matter! Sam's MDF testing 4 layer DOES! "And you can take that to the bank Senator Trent.....to the Blood Bank...ba ba baba bump"

[@GunSam]

Thanks Dan. Lol, wasn't that Hard to Kill?

[@DanTheWolfman]

@@GunSam no silly that was in my Bio-dads 1st fil Above the Law which if you haven't seen my remake video of you should my best real editing job ever

[@GunSam]

Got to love movie quotes. Back in the 90's I told my friend that the teacher in Kickboxer said "take your bags and leave my hut-cha", instead of "take your bags and leave my house". I thought it did say hut-cha though lol. No Google back then so we went with it.

[@paulross9287]

Rarely talked about, but alternating the two rounds seems like a viable strategy. imho. Thanks for another great review.

[@GunSam]

Thanks. Yeah I have heard of people doing that, and the reasons vary from valid to stupid based on how they decide which comes first and which comes last lol. I suppose the Cadillac of that strategy would be with my S&W Governor.

[@Fudmottin]

I wouldn't recommend it. What you could do though is have the lead tipped rounds in your gun and a loader or speed strip with the fully jacketed rounds so you don't get lead dust in your pockets.

[@randyadams03]

Thanks GS. I learned again.

[@coyotlsmokingmirror8660]

Thanks been carrying the Hornady for years

[@petemarshall-ij9ke]

I've seen your earlier "jug" test with the Buff Bore 110 grain rounds. If you have any left, I'd love to see you shoot them into gel and maybe run a head to head comparison with the Hornady CD, out of a 2 inch barrel. Great work, and thanks!

[@onpsxmember]

New gel day! Nice comparison.

[@jonclark8155]

Thank you for posting this. Good shooting I don’t have the +p but I use this same amo.

[@GunSam]

Thanks!

[@c.miller3802]

I'm seeing the same pattern , Hornady plus P are a very solid consistent performer. They are my second choice to carry in my J Frame . Underwood Gold Dots are my carry Ammo

[@LionquestFitness]

I've watched this one a few times in my quest for an all around, practical snub cartridge. One of the pluses for Critical Defense in the legal aftermath of a self-defense situation is the name - Critical DEFENSE. I tend to believe that would presuppose an ammunition used for defending one's life if the question of what ammo was used is brought up.

[@KD-lb9bg]

Good stuff, I’d be ok with either one, but if they were both sitting on the shelf next to each other, I’d pick up the Hornady Critical Defense. Thanks for the testing.

[@DrAgan_tortojed]

Negligible differences - both rounds perform well with both guns. When shot from a 16 - 20 inch carbine, they both are excellent hunting ammo too (up to 50 yards, maybe even 100 yards).

[@jaredgreen5840]

Definitely good performance from an "old school" style bullet although I'd definitely take the Critical Defense if I was using a snub nose. It just seems to be a bit more consistent from shorter barrels.

[@ftdefiance1]

I have no idea if they are still being produced but it would be interesting to run the old "Treasury Load" +p+ 110 grain load

[@totljag1]

Nice 👍 I like when u use the gel

[@johnouellet4099]

Really good job, exactly what I was looking for

[@bobcatforever3485]

Good video. Thanks for sharing. Take care.

[@jerrybushey6654]

Good shooting Sam as usual not a lot of difference in the two barrel lengths but the hornady seems to expand better I just started reloading .38spl .357mag and 9mm .125grn xtp for .38 5grns of long shot to start loaded ten rounds to start seems ok it’s costing about $20 a box to reload

[@jerrybushey6654]

Big whoops wrong load data

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Checked their website. Seems the only HTP in 38 special +p they have now are 158 grain. The 125 grain 38 special +p are now the "Ultimate Defense" line, of which they have two kinds, one for short barrel and one for full sized, same bullet weight. I'm guessing different powders. Ultimate Defense- "Designed with the concealed carry permit holder in mind to deliver big gun terminal performance out of shorter-barreled pistols and revolvers. Specially engineered Golden Saber BJHP bullets effectively expands at lower velocities for superior energy transfer on target. This round has been engineered to provide optimal penetration and expansion through even heavy clothing at lower velocities for maximum stopping power."

[@GunSam]

Ultimate Defense uses the Golden Saber bullet. HTP uses standard bullets and is just UMC with nickel cases and renamed HTP.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

@@GunSam Okay. Is the GS bullet better in some way? I know Hornady's claim to fame is the rubber insert designed to prevent clogging.

[@troy9477]

Nice. I would lean toward the HTP. I have a certain institutional fauth in SJHP designs. No knock on the Hornady- it did very well, and they make good products. I would not feel poorly equipped with either one. I still prefer the 158 LSWCHP +p, especially Buffalo Bore, in steel frame guns. The 110's are likely better choice in alloy frame guns due to recoil issues. Thankfully there are a number of great choices out there

[@eb-ol4po]

10:10 would you consider a revolver cylinder not rotating a failure? Are there any drills for revolver failures?

[@GunSam]

Other than whatever happened here, I have never really had a revolver failure other than maybe something hung up that won't rotate due to something wrong with the ammo. In which case opening and closing the cylinder usually fixes it.

[@benstonecipher6593]

I just picked up my Taurus 605 Defender in 357. Reading through the enclosed manual I found that on page 30 of this manual the following statement "There are only four calibers that can carry a +P rating from SAAMI. They are 38 Special +P, 9mm Luger +P, 38 Super Automatic and 45 Automatic +P. There are no other SAAMI approved +P loads. Any ammunition in any other caliber marked +P is not SAAMI compliant, may be dangerous and should not be used." Also this, "Only fire SAAMI rated +P ammunition in Taurus models designated by Taurus for +P use as below. Firing +P ammunition in other Taurus products may be dangerous and can result in serious bodily injury or death. The 605 in .357 should be able to handle both the .38 and the .357 rounds. I called a representative Taurus. She told me that I could use +P ammo, but that I should not feed the 605 a steady diet of +P as it could damage the inside lining of the barrel. I have watched your videos often and have seen you shoot many Taurus models with +P ammo. I do not shoot thousands of rounds of ammo, but I do intend to practice with 38 +P ammo because I to carry that round when hunting. I apologize for the long statement, but I would like to hear your thoughts. Thanks, Ben

[@GunSam]

Someone told you not to use a steady diet of .38 Special+P ammo in a .357 Magnum revolver? That's the dumbest thing I have ever heard. The gun is designed to shoot .357 Magnum, the .38 Special+P is about half the pressure of the .357 Magnum.

[@rustyshackleford1235]

I would like to see standard pressure lead round nose 38 special in the gel test.

[@pistolerogt]

Good video! Igual yo elijo el Hornady por tener camisa de cobre. Saludos cordiales desde Guatemala city

[@michaelrider3292]

Excellent test video..

[@Patriotx-gx4ce]

So out of my Ruger GP100 with 5 inch barrel I would be around 1200 f/s. Not bad for 38 special +p but expected slightly bit more from +p. Those cartridges definitely can be loaded bit hotter I believe.

[@joshm1079]

Hey Sam, did you ever find out what was up with your revolver? I have a 4 in Taurus 6 shot that jams up on one chamber from time to time, it shoots lights out even from 40-50 yards, I just have that one issue, was wondering before I have a gunsmith check it out… thanks

[@oldcop18]

Can you explain the danger pocket carrying lead rounds? I’m not doubting you, it’s just that I’ve done since retiring in ‘97 and as far as I know suffered no ill effects & at 75 would like to experience a few more BDays. Also, impressive double action shooting @ 25 yds!

[@GunSam]

There's been a lot more research into lead poisoning lately. Seems like it's very easy to get, even if you don't seem to have ill effects. I mean, for me it's not a concern as my speedloader pocket don't really rub on things in the pocket, but lets say someone speed loads the HTP VS the Critical Defense, carried in their pocket with their gum or whatever, well you go from no chance of lead to some chance of lead ending up in your blood. Just better to be safe in my opinion when suggesting ammo to the masses who are often, pretty careless.

[@oldcop18]

@@GunSam OK, thx Sam.

[@cal1776]

Do you have a file showing all your chrono results? I would be interested in it. Thanks for your content.

[@danielseifer5111]

Great video! Very detailed and informative. SGAmmo has the HTP’s at a good price, $16.95. What do you think the velocity would be out of a 4 inch barrel?

[@MnS101]

May I make a suggestion? When you compare two different rounds with different barrel lengths, please save the data until you have completed both tests. That way we can see the difference with the different barrel lengths. Like I said, just a suggestion

[@ibpositivemostly7437]

Cool video thanks.

[@Nono-rh4lr]

Hi Sam, Was that what you call a short stroke on the trigger around the 10:30 min mark? I've never owned a revolver and I've been watching lots of your stuff trying to get an idea of what I want to get first. I was thinking LCR X but afraid of people talking about the false reset on the LCR. Thoughts?

[@GunSam]

I never short stroked a trigger in this video. I have seen other people short stroke revolver triggers but it's all about experience. Like if you have shot tens of thousands of rounds or more with a semi auto than you probably will short stroke the trigger for some time until you learn to shoot a revolver well, if your experience is limited with semi autos than short stroking a revolver trigger shouldn't be a huge deal, just shoot slow at first and learn the gun. For me personally, I learned to shoot on a revolver so even on semi autos I get a good long press even if I do not need to. Like Bill Wilson of Wilson Combat, watch him shoot because he just goes long on the trigger press because his start was with revolvers and yet he still shoots semi autos fast.

[@Nono-rh4lr]

@@GunSamthank you for taking the time to respond.

[@PODSMPSG1]

The Critical Defense transferred more energy. It's also cleaner and more advanced.

[@dwheeler016]

Nice test

[@accord50]

Great comparison between rounds. I typically run the Federal 110 grain plus P plus in my two-inch Smith & Wesson Model 640. I have noticed in some of your videos you seem to have cylinder problems with you Taurus revolvers. What do you attribute that to ?

[@GunSam]

Thanks. The only cylinder problems I really have is the ejector rod always loosens on Taurus revolvers. I am sure a little thread locker would fix it, I just haven't done it.

[@markmuch1295]

Where are you finding a box of 20 HCD for $20? That's a good price.

[@richdoherty64]

I bought two hundred rounds of Blazer 38+p tmj. It has aluminum cases. Heard it is dirty, but should be good enough for the range. Otherwise I keep Hornady in my LCR for defense. Wondering if semiwadcutter or full wadcutters would be a better defence round in a two inch barrel.

[@GunSam]

I mean, to each his own with "dirty". At least they are TMJ which is just powder dirty, comes clean pretty easily. NEVER save a buck by getting LRN lol. You will need to clean for an hour for every 100 rounds. That lead is hard to get out.

[@johnochicago8457]

Hi Sam, wondering if you would trust carrying a Taurus 856 2" heavy snub as a daily carry??

[@GunSam]

I would if it was right. Obviously something isn't right here, which can happen with any gun.

[@johnochicago8457]

@@GunSam Thanks Sam. So far so good. I need to develop confidence in this one. Seems fine. Shot about 200 rounds std pressure through it with no problems.

[@strassersh]

Any idea why the hornady only penetrated 7" 6 months ago vs this test?

[@GunSam]

There's always some variation. The 7" shot had a little less energy and a little more bullet expansion, those are two obvious answers. It was two lots of ammo from different boxes as well.

[@jdmbraceyourself9860]

There's no school like Old School

[@ricardoflot2787]

I'll take EITHER, BOTH will git'er DUN!

[@NoFuxLeft2Give]

Hey man, thanks for all of your vids! So, Question to anyone: I just bought 100 rds of that hornady. I have been carrying B.B. 158 gr lswchp standard pressure. Which do you think performs better out of a snubbie in terms of penetration & expansion? None of my local ranges allow ballistics testing, so the only thing I can gauge is accuracy. It looks as though the hornady under penetrates, & from what i've seen of the B.B., it tends to maybe over penetrate a little. Ahhh, snubbies - the x-factor of .38 special, lol

[@GunSam]

The Buffalo Bore 158 gr like that shouldn't over-penetrate, I have tested it before so I do not recall exactly how it did but I do not recall over penetration. Me personally, after messing with ammo the way I do that you can't do at ranges, I would pick the Critical Defense. It's just easy to shoot fast and land shots, I would rather have that than slightly more penetration. Plus lead ammo gets smoky fast, blinds my vision in rapid fire.

[@NoFuxLeft2Give]

@@GunSam thx dude! I was thinking along the same lines.

[@NoFuxLeft2Give]

@@GunSam So, I, too, love revolvers. I've had a 442 for a while, & i just picked up an M&P 340 today. I also like pocket carry, & I carried the 442 in my right front pocket, w/ a 365x aiwb as my main. Now, I'll be moving the 442 to my left front pocket, with the 340 in the right; my backup has a backup, lol! Just love j-frames, although i don't think i'd love shooting .357 out of one. .38 special +p is just fine as a defensive round.

[@tomritter493]

Ok iv been noticeing the recoil on my 357 has been a littel less useing same ammo one is 15 yrs old the other is a new my question is do you see or feel a reduction in the recoil over the yrs .like their makeing lighter recoil loads ?

[@GunSam]

I have only been shooting .357 Mag for 13 years. Hard for me to say there's a reduction or not.

[@flaco5581]

Is that 3 inch taurus working out? I saw the unboxing video and it was shooting way high?

[@DanTheWolfman]

MORE MDF IS REAL WORLD Confirmation Ur CD did better here w more velocity than previous going deeper 11.75 .512=2.42 cu " TC vs Hornady Official Real Gel 11.25" .54=2.58" adj vol TC MORE VERIFICATION MDF 4 layer Protocol similar to REAL GEL to REAL WORLD bullet performance!

[@mblake0420]

What's best overall 38 special plus p for the short barrels? A best and an best value . 2 rounds

[@GunSam]

Probably Critical Defense+P. I have seen a few other ammo types do well, but the Critical Defense+P is not only acquirable, but I have tested it in many mediums, in many weather conditions and temperatures, and it's the one that remains consistent. It's also a good value as unlike most companies, Critical Defense .357" diameter and lower always comes in 25 round boxes, not 20 rounds. That's significant as it allows one to fire two cylinders of it in accuracy and ballistic testing if they choose, and still have two cylinders for defensive use (gun+Speedloader). Can't do that on 20 rounds.

[@briankarnes2761]

I would choose a critical defense over the Remington its still a good round critical defense I believe is going to be more consistent because It's proven to be in multiple calibers and I think it's definitely a less barrier blind round it did open up a little bit more and it did it sooner in the gel

[@bobbyblanco5351]

Why are the ftx so light ? In weight

[@thebluesrockers]

A lot of guns say that they can handle plus P but don't recommend them. I can't see any reason for plus P when there's no real benefit to them in the first place, not to mention how a plus P round could over penetrate and maybe go straight through someone who needed to be stopped and actually harm an innocent person standing or just being at a distance behind them. I'll stick to my Hornady Critical Defense for my 38 special.

[@GunSam]

I don't know how to address that comment. No truth in it, and every fact was wrong. There's way too much data to go over, but +P may or may not make a difference, as pressure means different things to different powders and bullets. What I can say, is that some standard pressure .38 ammo comes out to about 200 ft lbs energy and some +P comes out to about 500 ft lbs energy, all depending on load and barrel length, but in general a snub nose revolver gets about 200-225 ft lbs energy with standard pressure and 225-250 with+P with normal off the shelf ammo. Standard pressure Critical Defense penetrates MORE than Critical Defense+P, as the +P expands, makes a larger frontal area and stops shallow. You got it ass backwards lol

[@thebluesrockers]

@@GunSam I do have a snubby, so that does apply to me as for being close to the same. I do thank you for correcting me though. the 856 does say it can take plus P but the manual states that you shouldn't fire plus P very often. so with that in mind, I'll just use my Hornady. That's the main reason I'd avoid plus P. I just thought more power would be more of a chance of going clean through. That's what it seems like it would be to me. Anyway, thanks again for the incite. Peace..

[@kencorsell8087]

States that outlaw Hollow points accept Critical Defense as a solid point!

[@louiswilkins9624]

Favorite

[@philipfreeman72]

Light slugs work , less recoil =faster shooting .

[@chrisgabbert658]

👍😊🎯

[@ilovetrump1252]

With the HTP being a little hotter would it have more stopping power and initial shock?

[@GunSam]

Not really in my opinion. The numbers were too close.

[@waynefelton6413]

Thanks for ANOTHER great video. I always watch your videos Sam because I shoot a Ruger sp101 357/38 with a 3" barrel. Your test are a great way to see how these rounds work. Thanks afford ALL your videos! 😊

[@locksbog4270]

👍😃✌️🇺🇸

[@RoadTraveler]

Bump

[@RoadTraveler]

Algorithm

[@Fudmottin]

This video really should have done better.

[@richerich853]

Critical Defense has never really impressed me.