[Glock ... Duh]

I typically load Federal Hydra Shok (9mm, JHP, 124g) in my carry and nightstand guns. An old personal defense standby for many, right? But the results of Lucky Gunner's ballistic testing is worrisome: http://www.luckygunner.com/9mm-124-gr-jhp-hydra-shok-federal-20-rounds#geltest

This image particularly bothered me, should it? NO SPREAD AT ALL ON TWO ROUNDS!

 

[Drilled]

I was looking at Federals HST ammo and did not go with it. I bought Speer Gold-Dots because they had FTF in all my semi's. I asked on the forum what people were using because I had shot thru my inventory of SD ammo.

 

[Glock ... Duh]

I typically carry Federal Hydra Shok (9mm, JHP, 124g) in my carry and nightstand guns. Old standbys for personal defense, right? But after seeing this ballistic tests from Lucky Gunner, I think I need to change my load:

http://www.luckygunner.com/9mm-124-gr-jhp-hydra-shok-federal-20-rounds#geltest

The image below was particularly disturbing. NO SPREAD AT ALL ON TWO ROUNDS!

 

[Darkstar888]

Hydra Shok is old and outdated technology. The most advanced technology available is their HST line. Followed very closely by Speer Gold Dot and Winchester Ranger. Refer to Luckygunner's testing.
http://www.luckygunner.com/labs/self-defense-ammo-ballistic-tests/

 

[CigarandScotch]

I don't know why they still make Hydra Shoks. They haven't tested well for over a decade, and so many other designs have far surpassed them, including designs by Federal.

 

[Kentguy]

I typically carry Federal Hydra Shok (9mm, JHP, 124g) in my carry and nightstand guns. Old standbys for personal defense, right? But after seeing this ballistic tests from Lucky Gunner, I think I need to change my load:
http://www.luckygunner.com/9mm-124-gr-jhp-hydra-shok-federal-20-rounds#geltest
The image below was particularly disturbing. NO SPREAD AT ALL ON TWO ROUNDS!

Have you done any of your own tests with this round? I wouldn't go running out and changing your CCW/home defense round just on the basis of some test posted. Ballistic tests can be all over the board - that's why you should do your own set of tests and make a decision based on those findings.

 

[Darkstar888]

Hydra shock is way outdated and old technology. HST on the other hand is probably the best performer of all. Followed very closely by Gold Dot and Winchester Ranger. Review Luckygunner's testing
http://www.luckygunner.com/labs/self-defense-ammo-ballistic-tests/

 

[Usp45ct]

Train up on the Mozambique drill...you'll be fine.

 

[hannstv]

As a young man I chased the latest and greatest with the most KE. I now believe that reliability, accuracy and adequate penetration are the truly important factors. You are good to go with the HydroShocks as long as they are reliable and accurate in your guns.

 

[fortyofforty]

No. Don't be worried.

 

[fortyofforty]

Yes. Be worried.

 

[Jeff S.]

Have you done any of your own tests with this round? I wouldn't go running out and changing your CCW/home defense round just on the basis of some test posted. Ballistic tests can be all over the board - that's why you should do your own set of tests and make a decision based on those findings.

It can be tough (financially, time consuming, and know-how) for individuals to comparison-test ammunition. Hell, it's even tough on police departments. PD's will often hire experts/consultants to help them test.

Lucky for us, we live in the golden age of the internet, and here is some great info from just such an expert.

https://pistol-forum.com/showthread.php?4337-Service-Caliber-Handgun-Duty-and-Self-Defense-Ammo

 

[G29guy06]

...I'm usually afraid when all I have is a 9mm...

sincerely,
~G29guy06

 

[TheDreadnought]

Get Gold Dots.

 

[Darkstar888]

HST actually outperform Gold Dots but they are both excellent rounds.

 

[DJ Niner]

Two very similar threads have been merged into this single thread.
Sorry if this causes any confusion.

 

[Jeff S.]

 

[cowboywannabe]

Be afraid , because one or two of those rounds COM won't even hurt a criminal .

 

[barth]

Hydra Shok is old technology from years ago.
Back in the day Hydra Shok 45 ACP was the Gold Standard.
IMHO the line is still produced because it continues to sell based on that old reputation.
Used to run that ammo when it was one of the best available.
Lots of modern ammo easily outperforms it today.
I don't run Hydra Shok in any defensive caliber these days...

In 9mm, had been using Speer GDHP or Federal HST in 124 +P.
Or Winchester Ranger T-Series in 127 +P+.
NYPD and others have been very happy with street performance of GDHP 124 +P.

But the latest trend has been to heavy for caliber high tech rounds.
Specifically Federal HST 147.
That is my favored round in all my 9mm guns.
Beyond terminal performace - all my guns group noticably better with 147 too.
Isn't that nice?

Bottom line? I'd steer clear of Hydra Shok.

 

[PatinAz]

Take two to the chest and report back.