Handgun Ammunition
Self-defense, competitive, and training loads for every caliber
About Handgun Ammo
Ammunition engineered for self-defense, concealed carry, and competition shooting
Top Calibers
Detailed specs on the 10 most popular handgun ammunition calibers
FAQ
Find answers about caliber selection, ballistics, and defensive ammunition
Contact Us
Visit our store or call to check availability and get expert recommendations
Handgun ammunition is engineered for reliable function, terminal performance, and accuracy. Whether you're carrying for self-defense, competing, or training at the range, selecting the right caliber and load is essential.
Hangtown Range carries handgun ammunition when available. Due to California's regulations and supply constraints, specific calibers and types may vary. Contact our staff to check current inventory or discuss your ammunition needs.
Top 10 Handgun Calibers
Complete ballistic specs and manufacturer information
Hide Caliber Details
#1
9mm Luger (9×19)
- Grain Range
- 90–147 gr (most common: 115, 124, 147)
- Muzzle Velocity
- ~950–1,250 fps
- Bullet Types
- FMJ / TMJ (training, indoor/range-friendly), JHP (defensive), Bonded JHP (barrier performance), Frangible (training on steel)
- Top Manufacturers
- Federal, Speer, Winchester, Hornady, Remington, CCI/Blazer, Magtech, Fiocchi, Sellier & Bellot
The most popular handgun caliber in the world. Versatile for training, competition, and self-defense. Widely available at affordable prices.
#2
.45 ACP
- Grain Range
- 165–230 gr (most common: 185, 230)
- Muzzle Velocity
- ~750–950 fps
- Bullet Types
- FMJ (training), JHP / bonded JHP (defensive), SWC (semi-wadcutter) / target loads
- Top Manufacturers
- Federal, Winchester, Remington, Speer, Hornady, Fiocchi, S&B, Magtech
The classic 1911 caliber with legendary stopping power. Heavier bullets and naturally subsonic for smooth shooting.
#3
.40 S&W
- Grain Range
- 135–180 gr (most common: 165, 180)
- Muzzle Velocity
- ~900–1,200 fps
- Bullet Types
- FMJ / TMJ (training), JHP / bonded JHP (defensive)
- Top Manufacturers
- Federal, Speer, Winchester, Hornady, Remington, S&B, Magtech, Fiocchi
Developed for law enforcement; offers more energy than 9mm with manageable recoil. Popular duty and defensive caliber.
#4
.380 ACP (9×17)
- Grain Range
- 80–100 gr (most common: 90, 95)
- Muzzle Velocity
- ~850–1,050 fps
- Bullet Types
- FMJ (often recommended for penetration), JHP (defensive)
- Top Manufacturers
- Federal, Hornady, Speer, Winchester, Remington, Magtech, Fiocchi, S&B
The most popular caliber for ultra-compact and subcompact carry pistols. Modern JHP designs have dramatically improved terminal performance.
#5
.22 LR (pistols)
- Grain Range
- 29–40 gr (most common: 36–40)
- Muzzle Velocity
- ~800–1,200 fps (pistols are slower than rifles)
- Bullet Types
- LRN (lead round nose), CPHP (copper-plated hollow point), Target/match
- Top Manufacturers
- CCI, Federal, Aguila, Remington, Winchester, SK, Eley
The ultimate budget training caliber. Minimal recoil, low cost, and excellent for building fundamentals.
#6
.38 Special
- Grain Range
- 110–158 gr (most common: 130, 148 wadcutter, 158)
- Muzzle Velocity
- ~700–950 fps
- Bullet Types
- LRN / FMJ (training), Wadcutter (target), +P JHP (defensive)
- Top Manufacturers
- Federal, Winchester, Remington, Speer, Hornady, PMC
The classic revolver cartridge with mild recoil. Ideal for training, concealed carry, and snub-nose revolvers.
#7
.357 Magnum
- Grain Range
- 110–180 gr (most common: 125, 158)
- Muzzle Velocity
- ~1,150–1,600 fps (barrel length matters a lot)
- Bullet Types
- JHP (defensive), Soft point (hunting/field), FMJ (range)
- Top Manufacturers
- Federal, Winchester, Remington, Speer, Hornady, Underwood
One of the most effective handgun cartridges ever designed. Excellent for trail carry, hunting, and revolver competition.
#8
10mm Auto
- Grain Range
- 135–220 gr (most common: 180, 200)
- Muzzle Velocity
- ~1,050–1,350 fps
- Bullet Types
- FMJ (training), JHP / bonded (defensive), Hard cast (woods/animal defense)
- Top Manufacturers
- Federal, Speer, Hornady, Winchester, Underwood, Buffalo Bore, Magtech
A powerhouse semi-auto offering rifle-like energy in a handgun platform. Popular for hunting, bear defense, and backcountry carry.
#9
.44 Magnum (revolver)
- Grain Range
- 180–300+ gr (most common: 240)
- Muzzle Velocity
- ~1,100–1,500 fps (barrel length dependent)
- Bullet Types
- JSP / soft point (hunting), JHP (defensive/hunting), Hard cast (woods)
- Top Manufacturers
- Federal, Hornady, Remington, Winchester, Underwood, Buffalo Bore
Made famous by Dirty Harry; a serious hunting and defense cartridge. Ideal for large game and bear country.
#10
.45 Colt (aka .45 Long Colt)
- Grain Range
- 200–255 gr (common), up to 300+ in specialty loads
- Muzzle Velocity
- ~750–1,000 fps (standard-pressure)
- Bullet Types
- LRN / lead flat nose (traditional), JHP (defensive)
- Top Manufacturers
- Federal, Hornady, Winchester, Remington, Black Hills, specialty makers
Classic revolver cartridge with traditional charm and proven performance. Growing popularity in cowboy action and modern defense.
Handgun Ammo Selection Guide
| Application | Recommended Load | Caliber / Bullet Type | Grain Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Training / Range Shooting | 9mm FMJ | 115gr or 124gr FMJ | 115–124 gr |
| Self-Defense / Carry | 9mm JHP | 124gr or 147gr JHP | 124–147 gr |
| Competition / IDPA / USPSA | 9mm FMJ or 124gr Load | 124gr FMJ | 124 gr |
| .45 ACP Training | .45 ACP FMJ | 230gr FMJ | 230 gr |
| .45 ACP Defense | .45 ACP JHP | 185gr or 230gr JHP | 185–230 gr |
| .40 S&W Training | .40 S&W FMJ | 165gr or 180gr FMJ | 165–180 gr |
| .40 S&W Defense | .40 S&W JHP | 165gr or 180gr JHP | 165–180 gr |
| .380 ACP Carry | .380 ACP JHP | 90gr or 95gr JHP | 90–95 gr |
| .38 Special (Revolver) Training | .38 Spl Lead RN | 158gr LRN | 158 gr |
| .357 Magnum Defense | .357 Mag JHP | 125gr or 158gr JHP | 125–158 gr |
| Budget Plinking (.22 LR) | .22 LR Standard Velocity | 40gr LRN | 40 gr |
| 10mm Auto Hunting | 10mm JHP or SP | 180–200gr JHP | 180–200 gr |
Hangtown Gun Store
Explore Our Wide Selection Of Armaments And Accessories
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between FMJ and JHP handgun ammo?
FMJ (Full Metal Jacket) and JHP (Jacketed Hollow Point) are the two most common handgun ammo types. FMJ is your go‑to for affordable training and range use. JHP is designed for self-defense, expanding on impact to maximize stopping power while reducing the risk of over‑penetration.
Does Hangtown Range carry +P ammo?
Yes, Hangtown Range often stocks +P loads (in calibers like 9mm and .45 ACP) that operate at higher pressure for increased velocity and energy.
What grain weight in 9mm should I buy for carry vs. training?
For training, most customers choose 115gr or 124gr FMJ 9mm from our bulk or standard boxes. For carry, many prefer 124gr or 147gr JHP.
How often should I replace my defensive handgun ammo?
We generally recommend rotating your defensive JHP ammo every 6–12 months. When it's time to replace, simply stop by Hangtown Range, pick up a fresh box of your chosen defensive load, and use last year's ammo for live‑fire testing at the range.
Does Hangtown Range carry .22 LR handgun ammo for inexpensive pistol practice?
Yes. We stock a variety of .22 LR options ideal for rimfire pistols and conversion kits.