Guy Miner
Master Loader
- Apr 6, 2006
- 17,496
- 4,683
Federal's Hydra-Shock was once considered some of the very best self-defense handgun ammo available. It still provides admirable performance. Today I tested it at 48 degrees, from my 2.5" barreled S&W Model 19 revolver, at 10 yards:
It's nice when the target says "Thank You"
Muzzle velocity was 882 fps, and the bullet was recovered from the 3rd jug, which is about average for rapid-expanding self-defense type ammo from several different calibers. Retained weight is 124 grains, and the bullet measures about .63" dia demonstrating very good expansion. The Hydra-Shock bullet is distinctive - even after expansion:
As you might imagine, a mere 129 grain bullet at about 900 fps is very easy shooting, and contributes greatly to shooter accuracy. I find that I can do very well with this ammo in rapid fire practice.
It's nice when the target says "Thank You"
Muzzle velocity was 882 fps, and the bullet was recovered from the 3rd jug, which is about average for rapid-expanding self-defense type ammo from several different calibers. Retained weight is 124 grains, and the bullet measures about .63" dia demonstrating very good expansion. The Hydra-Shock bullet is distinctive - even after expansion:
As you might imagine, a mere 129 grain bullet at about 900 fps is very easy shooting, and contributes greatly to shooter accuracy. I find that I can do very well with this ammo in rapid fire practice.
