10 Best 9mm Ammo Options For 2020

When it comes to selecting the right ammunition for your 9mm firearm, the options can seem overwhelming. With a myriad of brands, types, and purposes available, how do you choose the best one for your needs? From target practice to self-defense, understanding what each round can offer will help you make an informed choice. In this post, we will dive into the 10 best 9mm ammo options for 2020, highlighting their features, benefits, and ideal use cases. 💥

Why Choose 9mm Ammo?

The 9mm cartridge is one of the most popular choices for both novice and experienced shooters. Here are a few reasons why:

• Versatility: Suitable for various applications, including self-defense, competition, and target shooting.
• Manageable Recoil: The 9mm offers a good balance of power and recoil, making it ideal for shooters of all skill levels.
• Availability: 9mm ammunition is widely available, and various manufacturers produce it, making it easy to find the right rounds for your needs.

The Top 10 Best 9mm Ammo Options for 2020

Here’s a list of some of the top 9mm ammo choices that stood out in 2020:

<table> <tr> <th>Ammo Type</th> <th>Brand</th> <th>Grain</th> <th>Purpose</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)</td> <td>Federal American Eagle</td> <td>124</td> <td>Target Practice</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP)</td> <td>Winchester PDX1 Defender</td> <td>124</td> <td>Self-Defense</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Lead Round Nose (LRN)</td> <td>Remington UMC</td> <td>115</td> <td>Target Practice</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP)</td> <td>Speer Gold Dot</td> <td>124</td> <td>Self-Defense</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Subsonic</td> <td>Fiocchi</td> <td>147</td> <td>Suppressor Use</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)</td> <td>Blazer Brass</td> <td>115</td> <td>Target Practice</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP)</td> <td>Hornady Critical Defense</td> <td>115</td> <td>Self-Defense</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)</td> <td>Winchester White Box</td> <td>115</td> <td>Target Practice</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Frangible</td> <td>Champion</td> <td>124</td> <td>Training</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)</td> <td>Sellier & Bellot</td> <td>115</td> <td>Target Practice</td> </tr> </table>

Key Features of Each Ammo

• Federal American Eagle (124 Grain FMJ): Known for its reliability and accuracy, this is a great choice for range days. The FMJ design ensures it feeds smoothly in most firearms, providing a consistent shooting experience.

• Winchester PDX1 Defender (124 Grain JHP): This is a top-notch self-defense round designed for maximum expansion and penetration. It’s engineered to perform well in a variety of scenarios, making it a solid choice for personal protection.

• Remington UMC (115 Grain LRN): The Lead Round Nose bullets are budget-friendly and ideal for practice sessions. They are reliable for training but might not expand on impact, making them less suitable for defensive use.

• Speer Gold Dot (124 Grain JHP): Highly regarded in the law enforcement community, these rounds feature a bonded core that helps ensure reliable expansion upon impact. This is a favorite among those who prioritize self-defense.

• Fiocchi (147 Grain Subsonic): Perfect for those who use suppressors, the subsonic velocity helps reduce noise while maintaining effectiveness. This ammo is designed for precise shooting and minimal recoil.

• Blazer Brass (115 Grain FMJ): An excellent choice for budget-conscious shooters, Blazer Brass rounds offer good performance for target practice and training.

• Hornady Critical Defense (115 Grain JHP): These are designed with a unique Flex Tip technology that enhances expansion. It's a great self-defense option, especially for concealed carry.

• Winchester White Box (115 Grain FMJ): Another affordable target shooting option, Winchester White Box is reliable for range use and performs well in most handguns.

• Champion (124 Grain Frangible): Ideal for indoor shooting ranges, these rounds disintegrate upon impact to minimize ricochet risks. They are a safe option for training.

• Sellier & Bellot (115 Grain FMJ): A versatile choice with good performance, Sellier & Bellot is an established brand known for reliable ammo suitable for practice and competition.

Tips for Using 9mm Ammo Effectively

1. Match Your Ammo to Your Purpose: Always use the appropriate type of ammunition for its intended purpose. Self-defense rounds are designed differently than target rounds.

2. Practice Regularly: To get comfortable with your firearm, practice with target ammo. The more you shoot, the more familiar you become with your weapon's recoil and handling.

3. Store Your Ammo Properly: Keeping your ammunition in a cool, dry place ensures its longevity and reliability when you need it most.

4. Keep It Clean: Regularly clean your firearm to avoid any jams or malfunctions caused by residue build-up from shooting.

5. Watch Your Expiry Dates: Although ammunition can last a long time, it’s a good practice to rotate your stock and dispose of any that’s past its prime.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Manufacturer Recommendations: Always refer to your firearm’s manufacturer specifications for recommended ammunition types to avoid performance issues.

• Not Testing Different Brands: Each firearm can behave differently with various ammunition brands. It’s crucial to test several types to find which works best for you.

• Neglecting to Check Your Ammo: Before heading out, ensure your ammunition is in good condition. Look for any signs of corrosion or damage.

• Forgetting About the Environment: Be mindful of where you are shooting. Some rounds are designed for indoor use, while others may perform better outdoors.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Jamming: If your firearm jams frequently, consider switching your ammo. Sometimes, certain rounds may not feed correctly in specific guns.

• Inconsistency: If you notice varying performance, such as different recoil or grouping, try a different brand or type of ammo.

• Misfires: If you experience misfires, it could be due to bad ammunition or a malfunctioning firearm. Inspect your weapon and try different rounds to troubleshoot.

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What is the best 9mm ammo for self-defense?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>For self-defense, jacketed hollow points such as Hornady Critical Defense or Speer Gold Dot are highly recommended due to their expansion and penetration capabilities.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I use target ammo for self-defense?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>While it’s possible to use target ammo for self-defense, it’s not advisable. Target rounds are designed to punch holes in paper, not to expand and incapacitate a threat.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What grain should I choose for 9mm ammo?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>The grain you choose can depend on your firearm and intended use. For self-defense, many prefer 124 or 147 grain for better performance, while 115 grain is common for target shooting.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Is there a difference between 9mm Luger and 9mm Parabellum?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>No, 9mm Luger and 9mm Parabellum are essentially the same cartridge. The terms are interchangeable and refer to the same 9mm round.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How should I store 9mm ammunition?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Store 9mm ammunition in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and extreme temperatures. Using airtight containers can help preserve the ammo's quality.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>

In conclusion, selecting the right 9mm ammo can enhance your shooting experience, whether for practice or self-defense. By exploring different brands and types of ammunition, you can find what works best for your firearm and shooting needs. Remember to consider factors like purpose, grain weight, and specific features of each round to ensure optimal performance.

As you get familiar with your ammo choices, don't hesitate to practice using your firearm. Getting more comfortable and proficient with your weapon will boost your confidence and safety. For more insights and tutorials, keep browsing our blog to sharpen your skills and knowledge!

<p class="pro-note">💡Pro Tip: Always double-check the compatibility of your ammunition with your firearm model before purchasing!</p>