[Lineman]

Which do you utilize as a self-defense/home defense loading "Light & Fast" (such as 185 grain .45 ACP), "Heavy & Slow" (as in 230 grain .45 ACP) loadings or something exotic like Glaser Safety Slugs or multi-projectile loads?

In my Kimber .45, I prefer "Heavy & Slow" myself. Even 230 grain ball is a legendary manstopper. How can you argue with tradition?

 

[bigdog10]

Hornady Critical Defense 185 gr. is my choice for 45. I have started reloading hornady 200gr. ftx with 6.2 gr. of Unique. I will test that this summer. Federal 145 gr. Hydroshock for 9mm.

 

[Insta-Gator]

I have some Critical Duty, which I have not shot yet as my Kimber is still in break-in mode. The more I read, the more I think I would prefer to use standard 230 gr ball ammo. May as well use what you're used to shooting. Don't want any surprises when it really matters.

 

[Chuck43]

I like heavy bullets, I use Winchester Ranger T 230gr. but I wouldn't hesitate to use 230gr. ball.

 

[Islander]

I'm a fan of 230 gr ball.

 

[Dude22]

I'm a fan of 230 gr ball.

I am with you Gary. My night stand 5" 1911 is always loaded with them.

 

[Daviscc]

Me too

I use the Hornady Critical Defense in my Super Carry Ultra

Hornady Critical Defense 185 gr. is my choice for 45. I have started reloading hornady 200gr. ftx with 6.2 gr. of Unique. I will test that this summer. Federal 145 gr. Hydroshock for 9mm.

 

[pbsdaddy]

I'm not a fan of ball ammo, in any caliber, for home or personal defense. It might be ok if one lives in the country and their closest neighbor is a couple hundred yards away. But for anyone living in normal residential settings, I find it a poor choice. It does have great penetration and that is it's own downfall.
I much prefer practicing with a bullet similar in weight and design as my defense load. I use Lawman 185 gr. truncated cone FMJ as my practice ammo. Winchester, Remington, Federal, Cor-Bon, PMC and others all make a 195 gr jacketed hollow point with a similar nose design. I lean toward the Winchesters but would not hesitate to use any of them as a carry round.

 

[Ultraman]

230 hollow points all the way.