Federal has introduced a .380 ACP load to its Hydra-Shok Deep lineup, the first cartridge for the chambering to consistently meet FBI protocol recommendations for penetration—12 inches minimum—through bare gel and through heavy clothing. The addition addresses the needs of a growing number of ultra-compact handguns carried by citizens of all ages, genders and demographics for self-defense.
“FBI protocol incudes a series of rigorous scenarios,” said Federal Handgun Ammunition Product Manager Chris Laack. “Bullets are shot through materials such as 10-percent ordinance gelatin, laminated automotive safety glass, plywood, wallboard and heavy clothing specified by the FBI. While our larger caliber ammunition is designed to meet and exceed these requirements, the smaller .380 Auto is designed to offer the best possible blend of performance in a compact handgun platform.”
This new offering is tailor-made for arming compact, concealed-carry “pocket pistols” or “micro guns” with an expanding, yet deepest-penetrating round. The new Hydra-Shok Deep .380 ACP even exceeds the FBI protocol performance requirements. Testing done by Federal ammunition engineers in their Anoka, MN, facilities showed typical results of 13 to 13 1/2 inches of penetration in bare gel and 13 1/4 to 14 inches through heavy clothing. Test gun barrel lengths were from common, compact handguns ranging from 2 3/4 to 3 1/2 inches. The bullet and load are also fine-tuned to ensure delivery of consistent performance across all handgun platforms, including ones with longer barrels, to stay within that 13- to 14-inch goal range.
In the past three years, customers and the industry have recognized Federal Premium’s new Hydra-Shok Deep ammunition product for its improved penetration and superior reliability. Shooting Illustrated awarded the line its “Ammo of the Year” Golden Bullseye in 2019.
The new .380 ACP loads have a 99-grain bullet and will reach retailer shelves sometime this spring.
