Best Carry Ammo For 3" Barrel

[TheProfessional]

So I just purchased an HK P2000SK .40! I generally carry Winchester Ranger T-Series or Hornady Duty ammunition in my pistols. Well, I was recommended Speer Gold Dot Short Barrel .40, 180 grain ammunition for a barrel of 3 inches. I purchased two boxes yesterday.

How much of a reduction in fps/f.lbs is there when firing regular ammunition (non-short barrel ammo) through a 3 inch barrel?

I do understand that you're dead with whatever I shoot you with, but, I want optimum terminal performance.

Is Speer short barrel ammo the best way to go?

[1911su16b870]

I would run a +P ammo if the firearm is rated for it, simply because it will give you more velocity from the start.

[MrPlutonium]

I would run a +P ammo if the firearm is rated for it, simply because it will give you more velocity from the start.

+p ammo is not an option for .40S&W

As to the OP's question, speer's short barrel loads are the only commercially available rounds specifically designed for use in shorter barrels. As far as how much velocity you might lose, it 's not likely to be so significant that any other ammo would be deemed ineffective. I would personally worry less about splitting hairs on the actual premium bullet selection and worry more about the reliability and accuracy in my specific pistol to choose the right load.

[voiceofreason]

.40 is not a caliber sensitive to weight/speed

Ranger-T is a pretty hot round to start with and it has the advantage of "cutting". It's a proven round.

What's important is that the round expands easily.

read up on sectional density in regards to handgun rounds; makes for interesting reading

[Mr357magnum]

I wouldn't go with the 180 grain at a short barrel, simply because your velocity would probably dip to around 875 or 900..

Id go with a 155 or 165