For the average shooter does it really matter? All that stuff?

 

Aim, pull trigger, be ready for loud noise, repeat. No?

 

I don't have enough experience with 9mm ammo to notice the difference between a 115 gr and 143 gr bullet. I have noticed that some of the bulk stuff doesn't cycle the pistol right, but I'm not sure that has to do with the bullet design rather than the weight of the bullet.

 

Shotgun shells obvioulsy make a difference.

 

But does it really matter that much for 9mm used for punching holes in paper, or steel plates?

 

I ask because like everything there are significant price differences in ammo cost.

For your stated uses, get the cheapest ammo that cycles reliably in your gun.

 

I buy whatever is cheapest.

It can make a difference. Different weight bullets will shoot to different POI's - although at the range must shooters are shooting they may not notice the difference. Recoil characteristics may be different with a larger, slower bullet providing more of a "push" than a "snap". Some bullet profiles may work better in some guns than others. If you are shooting in any kind of competition that involves steel, the 115 gr bullets may be "iffy" on the takedown (rules stipulate that the steel must fall using ammo that meets the power factor - bullet weight x velocity / 1000. Minor = 125 / Major = 165).

 

So yes, bullet weight does make a difference, grasshopper

 

Adios,

 

Pizza Bob

Some guns run better with a heavier bullet.

 

For 9mm, 115gr is standard "target" ammo, however some guns don't run well with it. Part of it is personal preference.

 

For competition, though, it's much easier to reach the correct power factor with a heavier bullet (Bullet weight multiplied by the Muzzle Velocity in FPS divided by 1000).

 

Also - different bullet weights will affect the ballistics.

 

So yes, bullet weight does make a difference, grasshopper

 

Thank you Sensai. I didn't contimplate the power factor.

 

Good Lord, there is so much to learn in this sport.

Thank you Sensai. I didn't contimplate the power factor.

 

Good Lord, there is so much to learn in this sport.

You will never learn it all either. I have been shooting since I was 8 and reloading since I was 17 (im 38 now). I still have to look stuff up and ask questions!

Ken

Pizza Bob and Nick have already added all you need to know at this point. =)

 

I will say though, when I load my ammo, I have exclusively switched to JHP or Plated HP bullets..... they make cleaner holes in paper. =)

 

another plus.... all else being equal, slightly more accurate/consistent as the mass of the bullet weight is towards the back.

 

In reality, for punching paper, it is fine, especially since most people seldom shoot beyond 10 yards. Beyond that, there is a difference, and some guns prefer heavier weight bullets, the rest is all what you prefer.

 

Personally, I like 124 grain in 9mm, 180 grain in 40, 230 in 45. My HK P30 loved 147 grain stuff.

 

If you are competing in any type of matches, such as IDPA, USPSA, Knockdown steel, 124 grain in 9mm will have a slightly easier time knocking down the steel. More mass moving.

Thanks Max.

 

I think what I need to do is buy a box of each grain and experiment, to see if I notice a difference.

You'll see more of a difference if you reload using different grain bullets and powders versus trying different grain factory ammo. I've shot 147gr with a fast powder and it's MUCH softer feeling than factory 115gr. I use 124gr as it's softer, knocks down steel better and isn't much more expensive than 115's...much bigger jump in price going to 147's.