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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.
Comparative Summary – Common Handgun Calibers for CCW
|
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 |
Comparative Summary – Home Defense Calibers/Firearms
|
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 |
Best Ammunition and Caliber for Self-Defense
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.
Top Calibers for Concealed Carry
- 9mm Luger: Best balance of capacity and control. Shop 9mm Ammo
- .40 S&W: Snappier recoil with higher energy. Shop .40 Ammo
- .45 ACP: Powerful but with lower capacity. Shop .45 ACP Ammo
- .380 ACP: Good for small carry guns. Shop .380 Ammo
Best Calibers for Home Defense
- 12ga Shotgun: Devastating at close range. Shop 12ga Ammo
- 5.56 NATO (AR-15): Fast, accurate, low recoil. Shop 5.56/.223 Ammo
- Full-size Handgun: Easy to store, quick access. Use premium JHPs like Federal HST or Speer Gold Dot.
Top Self-Defense Ammunition
Caliber Comparison Table
| 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 |