.380 ACP +P Buffalo Bore 100-grain Hard-Cast

by
posted on February 22, 2012
100grainhard.jpg

Tim Sundles at Buffalo Bore tells me this load has seen great success in several defensive shootings; in some cases prompting inquiring calls from medical examiners. It changes the .380 ACP dramatically for two reasons: it's fast and it will penetrate very deep. Flat nose, hard-cast bullets do have a great reputation in the hunting fields because of the penetration they offer. And, while they do not expand, the flat nose does increase the ability of these bullets to damage more tissue than an FMJ bullet with a round nose. SAAMI does not recognize +P .380 ACP loads, but Sundles tells me he has tested this load in every compact .380 he can find—including some very inexpensive models—and has encountered no issues.

Load Handgun MV (fps) PEN (inches) EXP (inches) RW (grains)
.380 ACP +P Buffalo Bore 100-grain Hard-Cast Smith & Wesson Bodyguard (2.75-inch barrel) 1,065 31+ 0.355 100

Latest

 G9 Defense 126 Grain Subsonic 9mm Ammunition
 G9 Defense 126 Grain Subsonic 9mm Ammunition

First Look: G9 Defense 126 Grain Subsonic 9mm Ammunition

Built with an external hollow point bullet for improved penetration.

Straight Talk: Looking Back

The origins of some gear and techniques may surprise you.

First Look: Wilson Combat Division 77 Project 1

The brainchild of a new "skunk works" branch of Wilson Combat.

Near to Far Marksmanship Practice

We won't get to choose the distance a lethal force encounter.

I Carry: Heritage Roscoe .38 Special Revolver in a Tulster RATH Holster

In this week's episode of "I Carry," we have a Heritage Manufacturing Roscoe revolver with a 3-inch barrel carried in a Tulster RATH AIWB holster along with a Browning Branded Tanto pocketknife.

First Look: HSGI NVG Pouch

Stow your low-light gear where it will be safe and easy to access.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Illustrated delivered to your inbox.