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This document provides a detailed analysis of the best ammunition and caliber options for both concealed carry and home defense scenarios. It includes expert evaluations of handgun, shotgun, and rifle platforms, ballistics performance, ammunition types, and practical guidance to help you choose the most effective and manageable solution for your needs.
|
Caliber |
Stopping Power |
Recoil |
Capacity |
Availability |
Recommended Ammo |
|
9mm Luger |
12–18" penetration, ~0.5–0.7" expansion |
Low-Moderate |
10–15+ |
Excellent |
Fort Scott TUI, Federal HST, Speer Gold Dot |
|
.40 S&W |
12–18" penetration, ~0.5–0.6" expansion |
Snappy |
9–13 |
Good |
Fort Scott TUI, Winchester PDX1, Speer Gold Dot |
|
.45 ACP |
12–16" penetration, ~0.7–0.8" expansion |
Heavy |
6–10 |
Common |
Fort Scott TUI, Federal HST, Hornady Critical Duty |
|
.380 ACP |
~8–13" penetration, ~0.45–0.55" expansion |
Light (moderate in micro pistols) |
6–7 |
Fair |
Fort Scott TUI, Hornady Critical Defense, HST Micro |
|
.38 Special |
12–16" penetration (with +P) |
Moderate-Stout |
5 |
Wide |
Fort Scott TUI, Speer Gold Dot 135gr +P |
|
.357 Magnum |
14–20"+ penetration, ~0.5–0.6" expansion |
Very Heavy |
5–6 |
Common |
Fort Scott TUI, Federal 125gr JHP, Gold Dot 135gr |
|
Weapon Type |
Strengths |
Drawbacks |
Recommended Ammo |
|
Handgun (9mm/.45) |
Maneuverable, 15+ rounds, low recoil (9mm) |
Least power, requires precise shot |
Fort Scott TUI, HST, Gold Dot, Critical Duty |
|
12ga Shotgun |
Massive close-range power, multiple projectiles |
Heavy recoil, 5–7 round capacity |
00 Buckshot, #1 Buckshot |
|
20ga Shotgun |
Lower recoil alternative to 12ga |
Slightly lower power, fewer load options |
#3 Buck, #2 Buck |
|
AR-15 (.223/5.56) |
Low recoil, high capacity, excellent stopping power |
Loud indoors, over-penetration risk |
Fort Scott TUI, Hornady TAP, Gold Dot 62gr |
|
AK-47/7.62x39 |
Hard-hitting, good barrier penetration |
Higher over-penetration risk |
Hornady SST, Federal Fusion |
|
Pistol-Caliber Carbine |
Low recoil, easy to aim, shared mags |
Less power than rifle, pistol-level penetration |
Same JHPs as CCW: Fort Scott TUI, HST, Gold Dot |
This guide from WJS Guns helps you choose the most effective ammunition and caliber for concealed carry and home defense. Whether you're selecting a handgun, shotgun, or rifle, we've got you covered with expert insights and trusted recommendations.
| Caliber | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| 9mm | High capacity, low recoil | Less mass per shot |
| .45 ACP | Large diameter, effective | Lower capacity, heavier recoil |
| 12ga | Extreme stopping power | Heavy recoil, fewer rounds |
| 5.56 NATO | Accurate, low recoil, fast | Can penetrate walls |
| Category | AR Platform | Glock | HK VP9SK |
|---|---|---|---|
| Optics | EOTech EXPS3 / Trijicon VCOG | Trijicon RMR / Holosun 507C | Holosun EPS Carry / Shield RMSc |
| Trigger | Geissele SSA-E | Zev Fulcrum / Apex Trigger | HK OEM / Lazy Wolf Triggers |
| Weapon Light | SureFire X300U / Streamlight TLR-1 HL | SureFire X300U / Streamlight TLR-7A | Streamlight TLR-7 Sub |
| Muzzle Device | SureFire SOCOM 3-Prong / VG6 Epsilon | N/A | N/A |
| Stock / Frame | Magpul CTR / BCM Gunfighter Stock | OEM Frame w/ Magpul Magwell | Factory Frame / Talon Grips |
| Grip / Control | Magpul AFG / BCM KAG Grip | Vickers Extended Controls | HK Extended Controls / Talon Grips |
| Sling / Mount | Blue Force Gear Vickers Sling | N/A | N/A |
| Magazine / Reload | Magpul PMAG / Magpul BAD Lever | Taran Tactical Base Pads | HK OEM + Mag Extensions |
| Barrel (if applicable) | N/A | Zev / KKM Precision Barrel | Match Grade Drop-In Barrel (if available) |
Download the Firearms Accessories Guide or the Self Defense Guide, Prepared by WJS GUNS LLC