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Since 1852 we’ve been an industry leading manufacturer of pistols, revolvers, rifles, and shooting accessories. We continue to bring innovative firearms to market that meet the needs of every shooter and deliver on exceptional quality with a brand you’ve learned to trust.

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Smith & Wesson

Smith & Wesson (Consumer)

Big things come in small packages. A working name with heart, known internally by our engineers as the Snapping Turtle, meet the new M&amp;P® FPC™. Like the snapping turtle, the M&amp;P FPC snaps back. Not your average folding pistol caliber carbine, the M&amp;P FPC is a 9mm carbine with a host of its own unique M&amp;P DNA.<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jJ0FEh7FfDc" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0"></iframe> The FPC is a carbine platform packaged into a fast-shooting lightweight folder. Equipped to be tricked out with your favorite accessories, it’s the perfect addition to your next range day. Ultra-light recoiling, the FPC is easy to keep on target for quick follow-up shots. True to the M&amp;P name, the FPC has four interchangeable palmswells, a crisp breaking flat-face trigger, and a reversible magazine catch. All packaged in its own discreet carry bag.Not only does the FPC come standard with two 23-round magazines and a 17-round magazine, but its M&amp;P Compact size grip allows you to utilize both first generation and M2.0® compact and full-size magazines with or without grip spacers. The folding stock is unlike any other, with storage for two magazines for quick and easy reloads without the need for belt-mounted magazine pouches. <figure style="float: none;width: auto;text-align: none;"><figure style="float: none;width: auto;text-align: none;"><img src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/bltb61dcb3c40854cd9/blt44b000e9ea16c283/63f926a54fd99f36ebe21be8/Image2.png" alt="1 picture of a man holding a FPC and 1 picture of a man holding a FPC"/></figure></figure> When unfolded, the full carbine is just a hair over 30” long. When folded, this sub-6lb carbine comes in at only 16-3/8” long. The FPC utilizes a unique locking mechanism where a portion of the charging handle locks into an M-LOK slot to secure the stock safely to the side of the barrel. To unlock, simply disengage the locked components and unfold. When folded, the FPC’s chamber is open, and the firearm is safe.Unfold the possibilities to mix and match your favorite double-stack M&amp;P magazines with the M&amp;P FPC for the ultimate range day. Let the FPC challenge your extended range 9mm capabilities.To check out the M&amp;P FPC and its specifications, visit <a href="/product/fpc" target="_self">the product page.</a> <figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/bltb61dcb3c40854cd9/blt022cc00a6b6c4e0c/63f926eaec12cd34d005f313/Image3.png" alt="FPC lying across wood poles" /></figure>

Known internally by our engineers as the Snapping Turtle, meet the new M&P® FPC™.

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Code Name: Snapping Turtle

As a firearm instructor, people most frequently ask me “What gun should I buy for concealed carry?” I always tell my students that the “perfect” gun is determined by personal preference and if possible, to try different firearms to see what works best for them before they buy. With that said, I of course still have a few favorite Concealed Carry firearms I recommend new gun owners try: 1. <a href="/products/mp2-compact" target="_self">M&amp;P®9 M2.0 Compact</a> 2. <a href="/product/performance-center-m-p-9-shield-plus-crimson-trace-ported" target="_self">Performance Center® M&amp;P®9 M&amp;P Shield Plus</a> 3. <a href="/products/equalizer" target="_self">S&amp;W® Equalizer</a> <figure style="float: none;width: auto;text-align: none;"><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/bltb61dcb3c40854cd9/bltb9a095afb6f61269/63e521a1d6b15b22437be1a2/Artboard_2.png" alt="1 picture of a gun with bullets and 1 picture of 3 guns in a circle" /></figure></figure> <h5>Great features they all have in common:</h5><ul><li>They’re all 9mm. It’s generally believed that 9mm is the best caliber for self-defense, it’s inexpensive, easy to find, and doesn’t produce the unnecessary recoil of larger calibers like .40 S&amp;W or .45 ACP. The 9mm caliber has been extensively tested and proven that shot placement is more important than overall caliber size.</li><li>These three firearms have the ability to accommodate a 15-round magazine. The chances of you needing 15 rounds for a self-defense scenario is unlikely but as the saying goes, “It’s better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it.” I’ve always been of the mindset that I’d rather have 15 rounds and use 6 than have 6 rounds and need 10. With the Shield Plus and the Equalizer, the added bonus is that the magazines are fully interchangeable.</li><li>They’re all optic-ready. While red dots are a great addition to concealed carry handguns, it’s not a necessary addition to your first firearm. All new gun owners should learn how to use their iron sights before they move on to a red dot optic. With that said, the benefit of purchasing an optic-ready firearm allows you to upgrade in the future without having to spend the extra money to alter your slide to accept an optic - an expense that could easily cost upwards of $200.</li></ul> <figure style="float: none;width: auto;text-align: none;"><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/bltb61dcb3c40854cd9/blteb0916c4ec3407e5/63e521f9e4af4f6d405ac90c/Artboard_1.png" alt="1 picture of a man's hand pointing a firearm and 1 picture of a gun sitting on a wood table" /></figure></figure> <h5>What I like about each firearm</h5>M&amp;P9 M2.0 - I can appreciate the versatility of the M2.0. This firearm could easily suffice as either a concealed carry firearm or a home defense weapon. The M2.0 has all the bells and whistles, including a flat-faced trigger, Picatinny-style rail for a light mount, and interchangeable palmswell inserts to fit different hand sizes. The biggest benefit of a larger, heavier frame is the ability to manage recoil. Larger firearms have less felt recoil than smaller firearms making it easier to maintain accuracy. This firearm is wider than the others in this list so it may require having to put more thought into concealment. I recommend wearing busy patterns and loose-fitting tops to conceal the firearm better.Performance Center M&amp;P Shield Plus 4”- I love that this Shield Plus model comes with stock fiber optic sights and a 5 MOA Crimson Trace Red Dot. When you’re ready to transition from iron sights to a red dot, you’ll already have a great starter option to try out. This firearm also comes with a cleaning kit and PC tuned flat faced trigger. If you prefer firearms with no external safeties, the PC Shield Plus is striker-fired so no need for an additional grip or thumb safety. The one thing that this firearm does not come with is a rail mount for a light. However, the red dot is highly visible in low/no light. You may want to consider purchasing a hand-held flashlight.Equalizer – For new gun owners, I think the Equalizer is the best overall concealed carry firearm. The Equalizer comes with a 10, 13, and 15-round magazine plus a speed loader for magazine loading efficiency. The Equalizer also has that Picatinny-style rail for a light mount I mentioned, which I tend to prefer for all concealed carry firearms. You may have to illuminate your target in a low-light or no-light scenario, and without a flashlight that can be very difficult. My favorite features are the easy-to-rack slide and the deep slide serrations which really help you get a great grip. If you have hand strength issues, you’ll find yourself liking this even more and if you don’t, it’s certainly nice if you have to reload or clear a malfunction with injured, wet, or sweaty hands. <figure style="float: none;width: auto;text-align: none;"><figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/bltb61dcb3c40854cd9/bltb80e37bee483c02a/63e52229068e8578073c57c8/Artboard_3.png" alt="1 picture of a man's hand pointing a firearm and 1 picture of a gun sitting on a stone table" /></figure></figure> <h5>Final Thoughts</h5>When buying your first concealed carry pistol, keep in mind that you may decide to purchase multiple firearms in the future, so you don’t worry about committing to just one. Consider accuracy, price, accessories, and ease of carry when making your purchase. Also, think about where on your body you plan to carry and price out different holster options. Lastly, don’t forget to take concealed carry classes after you make your purchase. You need to make sure you’re proficient drawing from your holster and maintaining accuracy on target. Overall, you can’t go wrong with any of these concealed-carry firearm options!

“What gun should I buy for concealed carry?”

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Top 3 Concealed Carry Firearms For New Gun Owners

Smith &amp; Wesson and Thunder Ranch, a partnership forged in the 1970s that continues to this day. While the partnership became official in 2004 with the release of the Smith &amp; Wesson 21-4 Thunder Ranch Edition, the partnership of Smith &amp; Wesson and Thunder Ranch runs much deeper.<figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/bltb61dcb3c40854cd9/blt14376b31e3e14f33/643450fbc718e710edd3c893/Blog_1.jpg" alt="1 picture of Clint Smith holding a revolver and 1 picture of Clint Smith and his wife." /></figure> Clint Smith, a Marine Corps veteran and President &amp; Director of Thunder Ranch, began his relationship with Smith &amp; Wesson in the mid-70’s, carrying a Smith &amp; Wesson Model 19 as a police officer and S.W.A.T. member after completing two tours in Vietnam. He eventually left law enforcement to serve as Operations Officer for the American Pistol Institute. Soon after that, he founded Training Consultants, Inc., an active mobile training program for programs in Urban Rifle, Shotgun, and Precision Rifle.Thunder Ranch was opened in 1993, moved to Oregon in 2004, and quickly became the premiere destination for tactical firearms training. The facility consists of numerous range designs and functions of a type not seen before in any one facility.<figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img asset_uid="blt4ebb4b5bff414f37" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/bltb61dcb3c40854cd9/blt4ebb4b5bff414f37/643450fb7c179f10ee7cc8fa/Blog_2.jpg" alt="The American and Marine corps flags flying on a flagpole with the Thunder Ranch sign near a covered bridge" /></figure>Something that stayed with Clint through all this change? The Smith &amp; Wesson revolver on his hip.Smith &amp; Wesson has gone on to partner with Thunder Ranch for many more revolvers, including the Smith &amp; Wesson Performance Center® Model 325. The Model 325 is scandium/titanium wheel gun chambered in 45ACP with a Picatinny-rail for a light or laser. <figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img asset_uid="blt948cb8ab28a54508" src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/bltb61dcb3c40854cd9/blt948cb8ab28a54508/643450fbb2ef0d11ece9fdf4/Blog_4.jpg" alt="A man wearing a hat with ear and eye protection shooting a revolver" /></figure> Training and education are just as important as our firearms. The continued partnership with Thunder Ranch aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing the highest level of education and training to our consumers.Through our collaboration, Thunder Ranch is offering a two-week $1 trial to their online membership. Thunder Ranch has a reputation for excellence in the industry, and we are proud to be partnering with them to provide top-quality training opportunities to our consumers. From beginners to advanced shooters, Thunder Ranch’s online membership aims to help you on all levels, from firearms training to mental awareness.Sign up here: <a href="https://sw-inc.co/ThunderRanchOnlineMembership" target="_blank">https://sw-inc.co/ThunderRanchOnlineMembership</a><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zb1fllYSHFI" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" width="100" height="435"></iframe>At Smith &amp; Wesson, we understand that firearms ownership comes with a great responsibility. That's why we provide our customers with the resources they need to use their firearms safely and responsibly. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Thunder Ranch.

Clint Smith’s history with Smith & Wesson and our revolvers, Thunder Ranch's training philosophy, and our commitment to bringing our consumers the best training options.

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This factory S&amp;W magazine is designed to fit the S&amp;W M&amp;P15-22 .22 LR series of firearms. This magazine features a durable metal spring with a polymer follower. The durable polymer magazine body features a see through center with a load assist button. Buy a few of these magazines and keep the fun going at the range all day long.

M&P® 15-22 25 Round Magazine

Smith & Wesson® and Thunder Ranch®: A Partnership Forged in the 1970s

Jack of all trades master of none... That’s what comes to mind after hearing something can “do-it-all.” To me, that typically means getting something that isn’t specific to any one role. Contrary to my overall belief in the right tool for the job, at a certain point having quality items that are well rounded, capable, and fill multiple roles is simply efficient. Nevertheless, certain applications and situations do require specificity.The classic wheel guns seem to get cast aside amongst the plethora of high capacity, lightweight, magazine-fed semi-auto pistols. The revolver is still a capable gun and classification of firearm that is actually much more customizable than we realize. If you’re into firearms at all, it just makes sense to have a revolver – they’re reliable, immensely fun (and challenging) to shoot, and can be chambered in rounds that no semi-auto can touch. If there’s one wheelie out there that can fill almost any of these roles, and do it well, it’s the <a href="/products/686-plus" target="_self">Smith &amp; Wesson® Model 686 Plus.</a> <figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/bltb61dcb3c40854cd9/blt26092fe14a3f58c5/6421f927e938c30d45f76a35/686-1-100.jpg" alt="1 pic showing a revolver on a wooden crate and 1 picture with 3 pistols on a wooden table" /></figure> Let’s be clear, I’ve owned four revolvers prior to this one: a .22 LR single action, and three .357 Magnums ranging from 2.75” to 6.5” barrel lengths. Being the analytical person that I am, I scoured forums, comment boards, and Instagram rants, and found that there’s a great balance within 3” revolvers. Not only that, but the 686 in any flavor constantly came up as the quintessential revolver. The short barrel is easily carried or stowed. The L-Frame of the 686 has enough bulk to soften the recoil of spicy .357 Magnums, while managing to make .38 Special and .38 Special +P feel exceptionally pleasant. Whether it’s getting more training in, or personal preference for carry, the ability to scale up or down easily found cartridges makes this gun extremely versatile. The three-inch barrel allows the gun to maintain consistent accuracy at distance and create enough energy for proper defensive/hunting/survival applications.The larger frame is not overly heavy for carry and it allows the cylinder to hold seven rounds. While the extra round may not sound like a lot, but it puts it nearly on par with the capacity of a 1911 with more powerful cartridges. But this doesn’t mean it’s a giant gun, it’s nearly the same length or shorter, than a Government 1911 depending on where you measure from and about the same weight. Aside from the cylinder, it’s ultra-thin. <figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/bltb61dcb3c40854cd9/blt849e88a45c780659/6421f9270cfea20e9ff0fb4f/686-2-100.jpg" alt="Leather credit card holder, knife, watch and a revolver next to a cup of coffee on a wooden table" /></figure> The 686 Plus comes with rubber grips, which perform the best when managing recoil and provide a tacky surface to grip. However, the grips of the 686 can be changed out to suit your profile and material preferences. The round frame of the newer 686 models allows for the shorter “boot” grips made of wood, G10, or other natural materials creating a smaller and more concealable grip. When switching out to a new grip, you can choose options like checkering, finger grooves, rounded or squared butts. Most installation is easy and can change the look and feel of the gun quite a bit, allowing you to customize the gun to your specific purpose.The 686 Plus just may be the do-it-all revolver if that is what you’re looking for. I may not end up with just one revolver, but if I do, I’ve concluded that this is the most well-rounded version of a revolver out there.<ul><li>7 shot capacity</li><li>.357 Magnum and .38 Special (and +P) provide ample power and variable loads for training, hunting, personal-defense, and the range</li><li>Grip flexibility</li><li>Large frame to tame recoil, yet small enough to comfortably carry</li><li>Heavy, but smooth double action trigger, with light and crisp single action for precision shooting</li></ul> <figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/bltb61dcb3c40854cd9/blt8218bbb52e196737/6421f926e3b2cc09ce31a81c/686-3-100.jpg" alt="Revolver with a multicolored grip lying next to bullets" /></figure> If versatility is what you’re after, the <a href="/products/686-plus" target="_self">Smith &amp; Wesson Model 686 Plus</a> sacrifices little, while shining in most roles due its overall balance. On top of all that, it is one beautiful handgun.

Concealed carry is all about personal style, but it's not always as easy as it seems...

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The Most Versatile Revolver, the S&W Model 686 Plus.

The Art of Concealed Carry Layering Carrying your firearm concealed involves at least one layer. Using multiple layers can not only prevent printing, but it can also distract the eye making it easier to conceal. And above all, layers can make you feel more comfortable carrying a firearm, both physically and mentally.Let’s start with the layer closest to you, the first layer to address is a skin barrier. Though unnecessary, a thin base layer can protect from even the most textured grips. It softens the effect of stippling, checkering, or other rough surfaces on your skin as you sit and move throughout the day. It’s certainly possible for your skin to adjust to textured contact over time, but with that can come rough skin or discoloration that you may not enjoy.Ideally, base layer shirts should fit somewhat snugly to your body to avoid bunching and this goes for both men and women. Long-sleeve or short-sleeve tees, tank tops, or camisoles for women provide options no matter how hot or cold it is. Neutral-colored base layers in white, tan, grey, black, and navy give you options for just about every over shirt. Shirts that match your skin tone or those with a lower neckline can be virtually invisible if you’re hoping to avoid a layered look. <figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/bltb61dcb3c40854cd9/bltdf2348713d3598d0/6418fc5acf9d2107aeec134a/Artboard_1-100.jpg" alt="A conceal carry belt laying over a M&P 2.0 on clothes" /></figure> Over time and depending on the color, these base layers can start to show staining where they contact your pistol. Depending on how textured your grip is, you could see wear marks where the pistol touches the garment as well. Choosing the right material for your base layer matters, some synthetics may pull and catch more easily than cotton or wool and some types of material may show wear more easily. Though many shirts can double as clothing you can wear with or without your handgun, it’s best to prepare yourself for these base layers to be dedicated CCW clothing.The next layer, the one that covers your handgun, is the most important. Generally, darker colors, patterns, and cloth with texture all conceal easier, and even more significant is how the garment is cut and hangs on your body. Some people can get away with lightweight, flowing material that naturally drapes away from the body. For others and their body type or lifestyle, this type of shirt might not conceal well. It’s not unlike how a pair of pants can fit and flatter one person and not another. When considering a top that conceals your pistol effectively, take into account the type of material and how the top drapes. If it catches on your grip, either from the way the clothing moves or if the material snags on any grip texture, your chances of printing increase drastically. <figure style = "float: none;width: auto;max-width:auto;"><img src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/bltb61dcb3c40854cd9/blt3d61c966e03039e8/6418fc7a2005bb70964bfc52/Artboard_2-100.jpg" alt="4 pictures of Julie Golob standing in front of a mirror taking selfies with an IPhone showing how easy it is to hide your concealed weapon" /></figure> When you’re trying on concealed carry garments, move around! Whether the garment has structure or is loose and flowy, it’s important to test it based on your everyday and typical movements. Reach, bend, twist, and walk in front of a mirror. You can also prop up your phone and video your movement from the front, sides, and back as you go through these motions. After you record it, review the footage to watch for printing or moments where your firearm has become exposed.When it’s cooler out, additional outer layers can also help you conceal. Sweatshirts, jackets, vests, and scarves are practical examples you can add to your wardrobe. These outer layers can break up the silhouette of the firearm and can distract the eye by providing additional lines or patterns.It’s a good idea to unload your pistol and practice your draw while using any of your layering options. Not only does it serve as a CCW warm-up, but it also helps to get you in tune with what you’re wearing and carrying for the day. If a garment is too tight or long, it may make drawing difficult. Pay attention to interior pockets or built-in features that might catch on your handgun’s grip as they may not be a safe option.Concealed carry style is personal. Look for clothing that works with your body and firearm to provide both access and comfort. Whether it’s clothing for working out, casual wear, or business attire, layering garments can not only conceal better, but help you look great while you carry too.

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The Art of Concealed Carry Layering

When shopping for ammunition, you’ll find a wide variety of calibers outside of the norm, like the calibers we talked about in Handgun Caliber Names Explained. Alongside normal 9mm Luger, 9x19mm, or 9mm Nato ammo, you will see boxes that say they are +P. Simply put, 9mm +P are higher pressure rounds that develop more muzzle energy than standard rounds. You will of course find +P ammunition in other calibers as well. The higher muzzle velocity on the projectile creates a more powerful impact but also means there will be an increase in recoil. You should always consult your owner’s manual before using +P ammunition in your firearm. If your handgun is older and you don't have a manual to consult or can't find confirmation from the manufacturer, then it's best to assume you should not use it. +P ammunition in a handgun that is not rated for it can have dangerous and catastrophic results. Some handguns are simply not designed for the higher-pressure loads making this combination of firearm and ammunition unsafe. If you can’t find this information, it is best to stick to standard pressure loads, which means avoiding +P entirely. <figure style = "float: none;width: 715px;max-width:auto;"><img src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/bltb61dcb3c40854cd9/blt4410362772da9b19/63726cbfea930410907d6b9d/plus_p-blog-001_0.jpg" alt="plus P ammo" /></figure> Now, back to why you would choose to use +P ammo. Aside from producing greater muzzle velocity, there are other factors to consider but for now let's just look at the velocity. A 9mm 124gr Federal® HST® has a muzzle velocity of 1150 feet-per-second (FPS). The same bullet in Federal HST +P has a muzzle velocity of 1200 FPS. A 50 FPS increase is only about 4% faster, but I’ve illustrated with the targets below how that small increase in velocity has a big impact on energy. <figure style = "float: none;width: 715px;max-width:auto;"><img src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/bltb61dcb3c40854cd9/bltf85e395e8472034a/63726ce4e07e1711051cd812/plus_p-blog-002.jpg" alt="plus P ammo" /></figure> Now let's look at weight, the second key factor in the energy equation. You will see the weight of the bullet in grains featured somewhat prominently on each box of ammunition. Standard 9mm target ammo will most often be 115gr or 124gr. You might hear some people say that the heavier bullets have more energy or “stopping power”. In some cases that is correct, but it is not the whole story and often wrong if you don't consider all the factors. Energy or “stopping power” is a function of the mass of the bullet multiplied by the square of velocity. Velocity is determined by the powder charge used to propel the bullet. The +P charge on the 9mm HST I mentioned gains 50 FPS over the standard charge but remember that energy is a square of the velocity. That means for the same weight bullet we’re now multiplying by a much bigger number. Without detailing out the math, that standard 124gr HST with its 1150 FPS has 364 ft-lbs of energy. The 124gr +P HST has 396 ft-lbs, a 9% increase in energy for only a 4% increase in velocity. Now let's look at what a heavier bullet does for energy. With a heavier bullet, the diameter and the overall length of the loaded cartridge has to remain the same to fit the magazine and chamber. That means extra weight must be on the bottom of the bullet which is seated in the cartridge. That means there is less room for powder in the case. For this reason, you generally won't see a 147gr +P, though some do exist. What you will usually find on the shelf is 147gr HST with a muzzle velocity of 1000 FPS. The bullet itself is 18% heavier than the 124gr, but it's now traveling 150 FPS or 13% slower. When you look at the result of the energy equation, the 147gr HST ends up with 326 ft-lbs, an 11% decrease in energy from the standard HST. The bullet has more mass, but it has a lot less energy because it can't reach the same velocity. Another factor related to both the velocity and bullet weight you should consider is the expansion. Hollow-point bullets are designed to have controlled expansion which is caused by simple physics. The hollow point has seams designed to split like petals on a flower and curl back; these increase drag make the diameter larger. This does two things; it creates a larger impact point and dissipates energy to the target faster meaning the bullet will dissipate most of its energy inside the target. Generally speaking, the faster a hollow-point is traveling, the more it will expand. Think of throwing a water balloon, if you throw it slow, it may not break, or you just get a small splash. The same balloon thrown much faster splatters and sprays much wider. A bullet is obviously much tougher, but the same idea of expansion relative to velocity applies. <figure style = "float: none;width: 715px;max-width:auto;"><img src="https://images.contentstack.io/v3/assets/bltb61dcb3c40854cd9/bltddde581c139a8632/63726d0cdeb37610ecbb2bb4/plus_p-blog-003.jpg" alt="plus P ammo" /></figure>Often, you'll hear "a bigger bullet makes a bigger hole." As we showed with energy, that's not necessarily true. Let's talk expansion by looking at the Federal HST lineup for 9mm again. These numbers are averages from testing in ballistics gel out of a 4” barrel. A shorter barrel will reduce velocity so these numbers can change if you’re using a different gun. On average, the 124gr 9mm HST expands to around 0.63”. A 124gr 9mm +P expands to 0.67” and the 147gr 9mm expands to 0.62”. All of these have very good expansion, but the higher velocity +P has a bit of an edge over the slower rounds. When it comes to ballistics, there is a lot to cover and a multitude of options to choose from. And as with all things, there are trade-offs… Choosing a +P round comes with higher recoil but better ballistic performance and more energy. What works for one person will not be the same for others; as with every aspect of firearms, you should test your options and decide on what works best for you.

The same caliber, the same grain weight, with greater velocity? What is +P anyway?