9mm FEDERAL PUNCH 124gr JHP Review

[RDub]

Hello
Most of the 9mm reviews that I did were shot with two guns.
A SIG 365 SAS, with a 3.1 inch barrel and a Taurus G3 with a 4 inch barrel.
First I do forensic exam of the ammunition. Next I shoot a group while chronographing with each gun. 10 yards with the SIG, three rounds and 15 yards with the G3, five rounds. Chronograph is a Oehler 35P
Then the ammunition is shot out of each gun into a 55 gallon plastic barrel of water. The bullets are then recovered, photographed and then measured for expansion. In cases where the bullet fragments and loses its jacket, a weight is taken with all the recovered material and also a weight taken with just the lead core.
Here is the link to all the photos of the review;

9mm FEDERAL Punch 124gr JHP — Postimages

Data Sheet



The bullet weight is actually 125 grs. The cress-cross pattern you see on the expanded bullet is the result of this round penetrating all the way through the water, with both guns, having just enough energy left to kiss the bottom of the barrel where the collection screen lays. Expansion was very decent in both guns with no jacket separation. Accuracy good enough. Did not quite make advertised velocity.

[LVSteve]

As you say, disappointing velocity.

[scout II]

That is very interesting about the velocity. I use that ammo in my Sig 365XL and Glock 43X and found it to be pretty accurate. I don't have a chronograph, so I had no idea of the actual velocity. I tend to actually shoot this ammo more than my other defense ammo as it was a lot less expensive to purchase.

[jt1207]

It's my understanding that stated velocities for handgun ammo are typically for 5" barreled guns. So, if the ammo is being shot out of a shorter barrel, then velocity will be less. The velocity decrease in the SIG (3.1") and Taurus (4") seem consistent with that to me. Note that Taurus (with longer barrel) velocity is greater. Many manufacturers will list the guns that they used for testing or make it available if I ask.

[RDub]

Hi
The test barrel lengths vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. I only say this in passing, as to say, don't always expect the velocity you get from your gun to match what is printed on the box.. I may not be, and that's ok..