As the late Jeff Quinn once stated. “people don’t like extra holes in em”. Tools found a super 380 load that I’d have no problem carrying. Well done sir.
TOOLS! I gotta give you some flak on this one, I remember asking you about testing these a whiiiile back and you saying you didn't think no XTP would perform in 380 or it wouldn't open up or make a real difference in 380. I've had a few boxes stocked of this and loaded in my Bersa Thunder for a while. Thank you for testing it sir!
@@ToolsandTargets I agree. Thanks for testing it. These and those other +P 380s (that seem to be discontinued) would do the job for sure. I do have two of those black-cherry hardcast +P rounds at the bottom of my Bersa mag, just in case.
@@houseofpain3580 Hard to test every conceivable load at the same time. At least he got around to testing it and it confirmed what I was expecting... a great load.
My wife has the DoubleTap 380 lead free 80gr. It's rated at 1050fps and has a massive hollow point. I figure it should open well without sacrificing too much penetration since it'll hold together.
I've used the 90gr xtp as my 380 carry ammo for 10 years now. There is an old youtuber that ran a pretty exhaustive bunch of tests of all of the commonly available 380 carry ammo about 10 years ago. He came to the conclusion that the 380 xtp was the best overall performer among all the commercial expanding bullets. He shot a lot of rounds and jelly to come to that result. His channel , now long inactive, is Shooting the Bull. Great video here Tools and good to see that the XTP still performs in the 380.
Thank you sir. XTP in general has been terrible in my own .380 testing. This is definitely an exception rather than the rule from my experience. All loads are definitely not created equal.😎👍
Shooting the bull was indeed a good channel. As I recall, the owner had some health issues. He did test some ammo loaded with XTP projectiles, but he did not test any .380 +P loads, as SAMMI does not have a +P standard for .380. SAMMI only lists +P standards for 9mm, .38 Special, .38 Super and .45 ACP in pistol calibers. The only rifle caliber with a +P standard is the .257 Roberts. Any caliber other than these five called +P is outside of SAMMI specifications, or a marketing gimmick.
@@RunningMan630 I don't get why folks constantly invoke that as if SAAMI not having a technical +P rating is pertinent to anyone's analysis of what rounds to carry. Hornady loads the 380acp XTP projectile such that it's 1000fps. Underwood uses the identical projectile and through black magic, or voodoo, it flies at ~1200fps. That means the round is loaded to a HIGHER PRESSURE. Rather than go on an extended diatribe about dot-loading and whatnot, most people will just describe the hotter loaded 380acp as "+P" ammo, because we're comparing it to other 380acp ammo. This load EXISTS and performs DIFFERENTLY than the standard pressure loading, people carry it, thus it needs/needed testing, period. Folks coming out of the woodwork to say "akshually, there IS NO +P" contribute zero to the conversation
I know people downplay 380, but I think it's the perfect defense round for smaller framed women, elderly, and those with wrist and grip issues. I would rather someone carry a .380 instead of a 22LR. There's no room for ego in a life or death situation, just results. These have results and they fit into that CCW role. Awesome round. I have a 9mm looking for a 10mm. I'm not a bought in 380 fanboy, but sometimes it takes comments and videos like these to assure people that smaller calibers can be effective tools. Too bad 380 is more expensive than 9mm around here. It's hard to sell people on it instead of the tiny and cheap 22.
Why don't you get an M&P 2.0 in 40sw. Run Underwood, Double Tap, maybe even Grizzly load 135grn.@ 1400fps. This will give you 357mag/sig terminal performance in the 580ft.lbs to 600ft.lbs energy department. You can by aftermarket(I prefer KKM)barrels in 357sig and 9mm. The whole 40sw. and 357sig are dead champaign is a farce; put on by the FBI, gun manufacturers and ammo companies to separate you from your money( not to mention the FBI is hoping no one shoots back with anything but 9mm.)
Out of my Beretta 84BB, I chrono’d nearly 1300 fps a few years ago. I’ve since swapped to a G32 for summer and a G35 with a 357 barrel for winter carry. My wife carries a P380 and this is what’s in it. Excellent round for its intended purpose.
Please send them to me. I'll make sure those crapy Gold-Dots are disposed of in an inclusive, diversified, sustainable, responsibly sourced way that.... creates a multicultural learning space.... yeah
Thank you for an excellent test. I think the Underwood .380 +p XTP is the best .380 load ever. 25+ YEARS ago, I owned a S&W 940 Centennial J-Frame snubby revolver in 9mm. Back then, Hornady sold a 90 Grain XTP in 9MM. I fired 1 out of my 940 into a bucket full of wet sand once. I was amazed to see that it expanded perfectly and while it didn't go all the way through the bucket, it did dent the HELL outta the back wall. The advertised velocity of the 9MM 90 grain XTP was 1350 fps I think. I'm sure it was far less coming out of my J-frame snub but it did the job it was made to do. Personally I think the 90 grain XTP does its best work between 950 & 1100 FPS. Most loads using it in short barrel guns get around 800 -900 FPS if they are lucky. But, unlike the 9MM silvertip in the 1986 FBI shootout, the XTP regardless of caliber does penetrate so there's that. That's what it was designed to do from its inception.
I bought two boxes of item 152 a month or so ago, based on the outcome of your tests. If it was removed from production, glad to hear there's a great performing alternative in the XTP+P ammo. Thanks for the info.
how is a tiny ass pocket size 380 loaded with +p not gonna overwhelm her? there would literally be less recoil from a glock 26 or a 43… hell even a jframe with some 148gr wad cutters or something woukd recoil less
Back in the 90’s, the Federal Hydrashok was a decent performer in the .380 being used in the Sig P230 and Walther PPK pistols. I carry the Underwood XTP for a few years now. They are +P with a nickel case. They are reliable and accurate from my Kahr P380.
XTP projectiles have been the go-to hollowpoint for me ever since ShootingTheBull410’s .380 ammoquest series here on YT. They seem to hit that perfect balance of expansion and penetration that is tough to find in pretty much any other JHP out of a pocket size .380
Thank you for this video . I carry a Colt .380 and have yet to find a load that inspires any kind of confidence in its performance . This seems like a real winner given the .380's limitations . Until now I've been carrying hardball because at least it penetrates fairly deep . Thanks again for sharing this info with the public , it helps a lot !
I was watching this in my bathrobe, with morning coffee. You had me reaching into the right pocket of my robe for my German made PPK, to take it down and check barrel length to see how it compared to your test guns. This looks like great stuff. I have some ancient Winchester 85 grain Silvertips, and this looks like a real step up. I need something to smack down those After Midnight Marauders (aka raccoons). I’m wondering if +P .380 suggests ordering a new recoil spring.
No need for a new recoil spring if you have a walther...all steel frame...just expect a little more recoil...and use sparingly and you will be fine...I have them in walther ppks...sig p230sl...and a sig p238HD & G42..no issues
Thanks to people like you who may influence the ammo manufacturers to up their game. I was always told to use ball if carrying a.380, no need to with that stuff
I've considered getting my wife a firearm for quite some time now. After seeing this review, I feel much more comfortable getting her a .380 using this ammo. Thanks again for a very informative video.
I'm stunned, a sub 1150 fps XTP that works. Maybe Hornaday watched a bunch of your videos showing how far behind they've gotten in bullet design. The logical conclusion is they've switched to a pure lead core with a thinner, softer jacket. the best performance from an XTP under 1150fps I've seen in years. Great test.
I have been carrying this load for 2 years now in my lcp max. Add you a set of XS big dot sights on the max and it really makes a difference! I don't comment much but I really enjoy your channel and the work you do!
Nice one tools! That was very impressive for an .380 . I tried the underwood 115 Grain +P and it was WAY! to fast came all to pieces. BTW your TH-cam channel turned me into a serious ammo fiend I can’t stop buying more😂
Another good test, Brian! While I consider the .380 to be a last-ditch, bottom of the barrel defensive round, it's clear that it can probably hold it's own in a down & dirty fight. I will say that I don't think the XTP is the best SD load because that goes to the Lehigh Xtreme Defender ammo with 90 gr. Gold Dot as a good back up. Thing is, in my .380, even the Gold Dots have failed, so technically I don't have a reliable back up, so I only have the Underwood 68 gr. XD ammo for my little AMT. This pistol has, as you mentioned, been so inconsistent with virtually all ammo brands (the XD being the single exception) that if I was out of the XD ammo for some reason (things would have to be pretty bad since the .380 is always my last choice as a carry gun!), I would simply not consider it! I have enough other, more deadly choices of a carry gun that the odds of running low on ammo on the BackUp are nearly zero! I am convinced thru others testing, including yours, Gun Sams, AZ Airgunner and others, and my own testing, that the Lehigh Xtreme Defender ammo simply cannot be beaten by any other bullet known to man. I use the Underwood XD ammo in *all* of my carry guns , regardless of caliber, simply because I cannot match their velocities with my handloads due to the powders they can get that us peon handloaders simply can't get! I have yet to test any bullet, in any caliber that even comes close to matching the Extreme Defender for reliability, wound channel size and depth of penetration! I suspect it will take something truly nuclear to best these bullets! That said, no one should feel undergunned carrying the XTP bullet in an Underwood case, to protect their life! It's just not MY first choice! Cheers, jc
I have to admit, these surprised me a bit. I know XTP’s generally need a decent velocity to expand. Because by design, they are penetrators I do believe. These did a really nice job. Especially for a .380
Wow! I'm impressed with that Underwood .380+P! I, too, have a S&W EZ and it shoots flawlessly! I'll try to find some of that ammo this weekend. Thanks for another great video on ammo quality!
Some Underwood redemption. I honestly switched my Underwood .38 Special carry over to Buffalo Bore because they were showing numbers out of my actual carry revolver.
Very good for the 380. If this was typical 380 I would not be as hesitant to carry or encourage to carry it. This does give the 380 carrier comfort & confidence. Don't get me wrong it isn't the 357 Sig, 40, 45 or 10mm power and performance I am after but it isn't the recoil or tool size either. Huge thanks.
Fantastic results Tools. If I was still carrying a 380 these would be the go to rounds to load up. Finally someone has loaded a good 380 round. Be vigilant and always be safe my friend.
I’m glad you tested this load. I’ve got a whole ammo box full of that loading. I stopped carrying it because of all the other XTP tests in 380 were so dismal. Currently carrying the 90 grain +P xtreme penetrator in my Glock 42, might go back to the +P XTP. I get damn near 1200 fps out of the little Glock on my chrono.
Best performance out of a 380 I’ve seen, very impressive especially out of the Max. Haven’t tried the plus p but have used their standard pressure version. Thanks for the jelly test Tools!
Someone here in the comments mentioned the 152's still in stock at cheaper than dirt. i did snag a couple more there just to have a consistent stock of them for my personal collection, but im guessing when theyre sold out theyre not gonna make them again which is a real bummer. however it is a very good sign to see these 141's performing great, the only downside is that they are slightly more expensive at underwoods site. might have to keep an eye out whenever they got a sale going on to start my collection of the 141's. thanks for the testing here tools, much appreciated.
UWs Item # 152 sold on sale for $12.60 a box. A GREAT price for 380, especially for one which works so well. I bought about 1k rounds of it after you proved how effective they were. I didn't purchase any of the XTPs for two reasons. First, #152 was $4 a box cheaper. Second, XTPs need more than average velocity to expand. I still believe the #152s performed the same or better than the XTPs. Tools, I really enjoy your tests. I even got my brother watching your videos. p.s. I was very mistaken. I purchased 400 rounds of the UW .380, #141, +P XTPs and 900 rounds of the other #152s.
Xtp's are probably hornady's best bullets as long as they get enough speed.. ive always preferred the XTP over the critical duty & Critical defense.. the 115 grain XTP's in 9mm & 180 grain XTP's in 10mm are some of my favorites
You was wrong!! Sorry you are always right, I just wanted to take this opportunity.😅😅 just messing around. Im like you with the Ruger Max, this one test is the Ruger Max's claim to fame. This is about the only test that validated the Max with a hollow point as a true defensive carry gun.
Glad to see these do so well in the gel! Me and a friend ordered 8 boxes for 1299 each with free shipping. She will be shooting them from a Glock and S&W bodyguard for me.Thanks Tools 👍🏻
I like the tests. To get expansion in the 380, you need a minimum of 1,000 per sec. I found that to get that speed in the LCP Max, you need +P ammo. Defiant Munitions seems to consistently get that velocity in standard pressure. While I don't shoot much +P at the range with the Max, I carry it as my EDC ammo.
You're videos are top notch I like How they're all kinds similar. There's like a structure to your editing and compostion You get straight to the point You care about your tests. Very clear blocks, set up right, good shooting. Enough funny and humble to be real Thanks for your videos and tests. You're gathering great info Only thing i would say is more than one shot for each round.
Gel is NOT a representation of the human body. FBI says you need at least 12" of penetration in gel to reliably reach vitals in a human torso. You think you can hit a .5" target under the stress of a defensive shooting? There is a reason that a defensive target A-Zone measures 6" x 11".
Human heart is maybe 4-6" deep from a perfect frontal shot...if arms ...any barriers are involved...or a side shot could make the heart 10 or more inches deep
@@kevinrichardson8859Yes, and exactly what the FIB based all their silly testing on. The Platt and Matix shootout in '86'; one Win.Silver Tip stopped an inch from Platts heart after going through his arm( no bone)and traveling through rib and lung. 40sw. with 135/155grn. bullets were not developed that were considered "effective" in all cases and the 165grn." is to snappy!" Oh well; the FIB keeps corruption alive and well.
My LCP is loaded with them now,been carrying them around 4 yrs shooting through gallon water jugs filled with wet newspaper, penetrates through 2 1/2 and mushrooms every time 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾
Wow! Talk about pleasantly surprised! I was a little worried with the velocity from the Max but they did great. I’ll definitely include a couple nice in my next Underwood order for when I throw my Max in my pocket. Awesome test as always good sir👍🇺🇸🇺🇸
That original I order a bunch of it, it does not feed in my Beretta or my Browning. This new round looks like it might feed better. Another great test!
I bought my wife a Sig Rose .380 for her birthday. Iv found a couple of types that performed okay. But after seeing this, I ordered 6 boxes to try out. Great job on the presentation.
Thanks so much for following up with this test!. After you tested the 152s I went out and purchased them with an eye towards using them as my carry round. I still have quite a few left, but I'm not very surprised that they no longer carry them. I feel better knowing that once I'm out of the 152s I can just start ordering these. Pretty sure the XTP rounds will be available for some time to come. Great job!
The 380 needs all the help it can get. Check your pistol to see if it approved for +P ammo if you want to use this ammo. I have no idea why you don't have at least 200k subscribers by now. Thanks for another excellent test !
I wish you would do some testing using the Beretta cheetah. That 4.2 inch barrel makes a big difference on the velocity you get out of your 380 ammunition, and of course, that makes a huge difference in the end performance of the round. Edit: didn’t notice that you were using the S&W , it has a 4” bbl, don’t it??
Although I've never been a fan of the XTP projectile, I have to admit, I am impressed. Especially for a .380!! I have both a LCP MAX and a Security 380 I keep loaded with either "White Box" FMJs, or Sig V-Crowns. I'm always looking for more effective options for .380 carry rounds (when I'm not carrying my 9mm) so. I might have to check these out!
XTP was originally designed more of a hunting bullet, less expansion, and deep penetrator...at least in the larger calibers...there is a huge difference in the expansion characteristics of various XTPs...the 85 grain .32...expands at 900 fps, the 100 grain .32 is a tough bullet for the 32-20 and the 327 federal. XTPs are very accurate bullets, and I reload them quite a bit...that is why they came out with the flex tip bullets...they were designed more as a carry bullet. The .380 flex tip will expand at 1,000 fps almost every time...even lower.
I think that I am confused. I see a 380 +p 90 grain 1200 fps on their website. Maybe they are available again. Great review. Made me go buy a couple of boxes.
You should check out the 380 HST that come in the 50 round box, they're supposed to be loaded hotter than the 20 round box version. They're rated at 1000 fps while the "micro" version is rated at 900 something fps. I dont know if theres any real difference but I read an article saying that the 50 round box was different and claimed they would pass the FBI protocol. Ill try to find the article
Would like to see a head to head comparison between this one and the HST with cloth barrier. I have both of these and others, but had been using the UW Xtreme Defender and Penetrator pretty much exclusively in any 380’s. However, I’m now having trouble with UW and especially that solid Xtreme ammo. Some has come to me already with serious bullet set back. And other rounds have been pushed back by just one chambering in even guns with ultra smooth feeding. That’s obviously not acceptable for high end, high tech, high dollar ammo! I have to consider all the boxes I have in hand useless and defective now. We will see what Underwood does about that when I get back in touch with them. I’ve been pushing UW ammo for many years to many people. But how this goes may affect that. I’m hoping they replace it all and that the new batches do not have this problem! I’ll try to update when I have a reply. So far I have not “noticed” this in their XTP and other calibers I have stocked up. But I’ll be checking it all to make sure none of it is the same. As a comparison, I’ve never had this happen with any HST, Hornady or other major brands.
I believe "Item 141" is the best round IF they always expand. I think the Extreme Penetrator is the best round if you factor in consistency. If I had a 380 auto, I would probably use the E.P. That round gives you certain penetration and modest disruption every time.
They used to make a 102 grain Golden Sabre plus p load as well...still have a couple boxes of them. I get right around 1,200 fps from the +p XTPs out of my Bersa Thunder and the S&W EZ. I have been using them for years, and use them as a benchmark for my reloads. Their plus p 45 Colt ammo is really good too. The the 325 hardcast is some of the best ammo you can get, short of reloading.
Lawman FMJ in 380 from an LCP sized barrel. Reliability is #1, penetration is #2, the JHP and boutique brands have the potential to cause feed issues in an already iffy small 380. Most people buy a box of the JHP or other and shoot a mag or two and call it good. Not a good idea friends. Use the Lawman and shoot what you carry. YMMV, and I love your knowledge and testing procedures…..
The 152 bullet looks like the ones loaded in the Fiocchi Defense Dynamics factory branded 380's. I've chronoed these from a Bersa Thunder at 890-920 and got very little expansion but good penetration due to the lack thereof. That extra velocity really makes the difference.
I have a couple boxes of those 152s and I was trying to figure out what they were. I am going to reach out to Underwood but I think they look a heck of a lot like the projectile in Norma Safeguard ammunition. Surprisingly I haven’t been able to find any testing or reviews of that, maybe it’s new. Nice test, I used to completely dismiss .380 but I recognize the convenience of being able to put my LCP max in a pocket holster and an extra mag in my other pocket during those hot summer months when concealability is key and it’s likely it’s only going to have to go through a t shirt.
As the late Jeff Quinn once stated. “people don’t like extra holes in em”. Tools found a super 380 load that I’d have no problem carrying. Well done sir.
EDC a G42..... I really appreciate all of your testing and evaluation on the 380. This is definitely one of my favorite channels.
TOOLS! I gotta give you some flak on this one, I remember asking you about testing these a whiiiile back and you saying you didn't think no XTP would perform in 380 or it wouldn't open up or make a real difference in 380. I've had a few boxes stocked of this and loaded in my Bersa Thunder for a while. Thank you for testing it sir!
It definitely surprised me based on other .380 I've tested. Great stuff here.😎👊
xtp is typically one of the few bullets in .380 that actually does what it is supposed to.
@@ToolsandTargets I agree. Thanks for testing it. These and those other +P 380s (that seem to be discontinued) would do the job for sure. I do have two of those black-cherry hardcast +P rounds at the bottom of my Bersa mag, just in case.
I use it my Glock 42 and LCP Max, always excellent!
Would you trust you're life to this ammo? I need to know. Thank you.
That's the exact load my wife uses in her S&W Sheild EZ 380. I've heard nothing but excellent things about it.
One of the best I've tested.
SHAME ON T&T for missing it!
@@houseofpain3580 Hard to test every conceivable load at the same time. At least he got around to testing it and it confirmed what I was expecting... a great load.
Well it will definitely do the job
My wife has the DoubleTap 380 lead free 80gr. It's rated at 1050fps and has a massive hollow point. I figure it should open well without sacrificing too much penetration since it'll hold together.
I've used the 90gr xtp as my 380 carry ammo for 10 years now. There is an old youtuber that ran a pretty exhaustive bunch of tests of all of the commonly available 380 carry ammo about 10 years ago. He came to the conclusion that the 380 xtp was the best overall performer among all the commercial expanding bullets. He shot a lot of rounds and jelly to come to that result. His channel , now long inactive, is Shooting the Bull.
Great video here Tools and good to see that the XTP still performs in the 380.
Thank you sir. XTP in general has been terrible in my own .380 testing. This is definitely an exception rather than the rule from my experience. All loads are definitely not created equal.😎👍
I remember his channel, it's sad how some channels come and go. TNoutdoors was another great test channel
Shooting the bull was indeed a good channel. As I recall, the owner had some health issues. He did test some ammo loaded with XTP projectiles, but he did not test any .380 +P loads, as SAMMI does not have a +P standard for .380. SAMMI only lists +P standards for 9mm, .38 Special, .38 Super and .45 ACP in pistol calibers. The only rifle caliber with a +P standard is the .257 Roberts. Any caliber other than these five called +P is outside of SAMMI specifications, or a marketing gimmick.
@@RunningMan630 Correct.
The max SAAMI pressure for 380 is 21,500 psi.
Underwood is using 99% of it 😁
@@RunningMan630 I don't get why folks constantly invoke that as if SAAMI not having a technical +P rating is pertinent to anyone's analysis of what rounds to carry. Hornady loads the 380acp XTP projectile such that it's 1000fps. Underwood uses the identical projectile and through black magic, or voodoo, it flies at ~1200fps. That means the round is loaded to a HIGHER PRESSURE. Rather than go on an extended diatribe about dot-loading and whatnot, most people will just describe the hotter loaded 380acp as "+P" ammo, because we're comparing it to other 380acp ammo. This load EXISTS and performs DIFFERENTLY than the standard pressure loading, people carry it, thus it needs/needed testing, period. Folks coming out of the woodwork to say "akshually, there IS NO +P" contribute zero to the conversation
i will be buying this ammo for my max when i start carrying it in the warmer months good stuff
I know people downplay 380, but I think it's the perfect defense round for smaller framed women, elderly, and those with wrist and grip issues. I would rather someone carry a .380 instead of a 22LR. There's no room for ego in a life or death situation, just results. These have results and they fit into that CCW role. Awesome round.
I have a 9mm looking for a 10mm. I'm not a bought in 380 fanboy, but sometimes it takes comments and videos like these to assure people that smaller calibers can be effective tools.
Too bad 380 is more expensive than 9mm around here. It's hard to sell people on it instead of the tiny and cheap 22.
Much better choice than a .22 if you ask me.😎👍
Why don't you get an M&P 2.0 in 40sw.
Run Underwood, Double Tap, maybe even Grizzly load 135grn.@ 1400fps.
This will give you 357mag/sig terminal performance in the 580ft.lbs to 600ft.lbs energy department.
You can by aftermarket(I prefer KKM)barrels in 357sig and 9mm.
The whole 40sw. and 357sig are dead champaign is a farce; put on by the FBI, gun manufacturers and ammo companies to separate you from your money( not to mention the FBI is hoping no one shoots back with anything but 9mm.)
About to remove my 380 gold dots and buy some of these. Wow looking more like a 9mm
These surprised me bigtime.
Out of my Beretta 84BB, I chrono’d nearly 1300 fps a few years ago. I’ve since swapped to a G32 for summer and a G35 with a 357 barrel for winter carry. My wife carries a P380 and this is what’s in it. Excellent round for its intended purpose.
Please send them to me. I'll make sure those crapy Gold-Dots are disposed of in an inclusive, diversified, sustainable, responsibly sourced way that.... creates a multicultural learning space.... yeah
Thank you for an excellent test. I think the Underwood .380 +p XTP is the best .380 load ever. 25+ YEARS ago, I owned a S&W 940 Centennial J-Frame snubby revolver in 9mm. Back then, Hornady sold a 90 Grain XTP in 9MM. I fired 1 out of my 940 into a bucket full of wet sand once. I was amazed to see that it expanded perfectly and while it didn't go all the way through the bucket, it did dent the HELL outta the back wall. The advertised velocity of the 9MM 90 grain XTP was 1350 fps I think. I'm sure it was far less coming out of my J-frame snub but it did the job it was made to do. Personally I think the 90 grain XTP does its best work between 950 & 1100 FPS. Most loads using it in short barrel guns get around 800 -900 FPS if they are lucky. But, unlike the 9MM silvertip in the 1986 FBI shootout, the XTP regardless of caliber does penetrate so there's that. That's what it was designed to do from its inception.
I bought two boxes of item 152 a month or so ago, based on the outcome of your tests. If it was removed from production, glad to hear there's a great performing alternative in the XTP+P ammo. Thanks for the info.
Yessir. I'm still curious why they're gone.🤷♂️
This stuff is for sure the best .380 load on all .380 you had tested. Sad that i is not available anymore.
Another winner from Underwood!
Yes indeed.😎👊
380 is my favorite arm ever invented I love this new stuff
This is what I put in my moms LCP. she's 84, not frail, but I like to know it won't overwhelm her.
Did great.😎👍
how is a tiny ass pocket size 380 loaded with +p not gonna overwhelm her? there would literally be less recoil from a glock 26 or a 43… hell even a jframe with some 148gr wad cutters or something woukd recoil less
Back in the 90’s, the Federal Hydrashok was a decent performer in the .380 being used in the Sig P230 and Walther PPK pistols.
I carry the Underwood XTP for a few years now. They are +P with a nickel case. They are reliable and accurate from my Kahr P380.
😎👊
1:30 I believe the JHP you are looking at is the Sierra ... they went to that for a few months during that time.
Wow, that has to be one of the best 380 tests ever! Glad to see you ate crow, I was with you though didn't expect anything at all from the LCP
XTP projectiles have been the go-to hollowpoint for me ever since ShootingTheBull410’s .380 ammoquest series here on YT. They seem to hit that perfect balance of expansion and penetration that is tough to find in pretty much any other JHP out of a pocket size .380
Nice! I am considering a 380 for my wife to carry and this gives me confidence that we can get her a good PD round.
😎👊
I’ve reloaded with the XTP for years and they always chamber and perform well.
A very good representation of the guns the general public use for personal protection. Thanks brother.
😎👊
"I bummed my self out" 🤣Hilarious, Thanks Brian, 👊🇺🇸
😂😂😂 I was already thinking it was gonna be one of those days.
TOOLS! I look forward to your testing these critters into bare block ( Florida Style!)
🔥😎🔥
Thank you for this video . I carry a Colt .380 and have yet to find a load that inspires any kind of confidence in its performance . This seems like a real winner given the .380's limitations . Until now I've been carrying hardball because at least it penetrates fairly deep . Thanks again for sharing this info with the public , it helps a lot !
I was watching this in my bathrobe, with morning coffee. You had me reaching into the right pocket of my robe for my German made PPK, to take it down and check barrel length to see how it compared to your test guns. This looks like great stuff. I have some ancient Winchester 85 grain Silvertips, and this looks like a real step up. I need something to smack down those After Midnight Marauders (aka raccoons). I’m wondering if +P .380 suggests ordering a new recoil spring.
No need for a new recoil spring if you have a walther...all steel frame...just expect a little more recoil...and use sparingly and you will be fine...I have them in walther ppks...sig p230sl...and a sig p238HD & G42..no issues
Thanks.👍@@kevinrichardson8859
Great job! Thank you very much. 380 is what carry most often. This load and HST are about the best... I think?
Thanks to people like you who may influence the ammo manufacturers to up their game. I was always told to use ball if carrying a.380, no need to with that stuff
I've considered getting my wife a firearm for quite some time now. After seeing this review, I feel much more comfortable getting her a .380 using this ammo. Thanks again for a very informative video.
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Dude did you end up buying one?
I just picked up a Bodyguard 2.0 yesterday and love the living heck out of it.. highly recommend 👍🏼👍🏼
Tools - thanks a bunch for the testing/reporting on this one. Never would have given it a shot, but now I'm going to!!!
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I'm stunned, a sub 1150 fps XTP that works. Maybe Hornaday watched a bunch of your videos showing how far behind they've gotten in bullet design. The logical conclusion is they've switched to a pure lead core with a thinner, softer jacket. the best performance from an XTP under 1150fps I've seen in years. Great test.
Agreed. I bet there has been some little tweak.
Shooting the bull did 380 ammoquest YEARS AGO and XTP outperformed every other bullet in his fbi testing in organic gel. Hornady didn't change crap.
Currently have these loaded in my Ruger LCP Max. I’m glad to see they do well. Thanks for all the excellent content.
I have been carrying this load for 2 years now in my lcp max. Add you a set of XS big dot sights on the max and it really makes a difference! I don't comment much but I really enjoy your channel and the work you do!
Thank you sir. Appreciate that. The best thing I did to this Max was the MCarbo trigger spring kit and shoe. Huge difference for me.😎👊
I will have to look into that. what state are you in?, looks a lot like Virginia to me@@ToolsandTargets
@@chrisfitch2905 Yessir. Southwest VA.
good deal, Franklin county boy myself.@@ToolsandTargets
Nice one tools! That was very impressive for an .380 . I tried the underwood 115 Grain +P and it was WAY! to fast came all to pieces. BTW your TH-cam channel turned me into a serious ammo fiend I can’t stop buying more😂
Stack it to the moon!😎👊
Another good test, Brian! While I consider the .380 to be a last-ditch, bottom of the barrel defensive round, it's clear that it can probably hold it's own in a down & dirty fight. I will say that I don't think the XTP is the best SD load because that goes to the Lehigh Xtreme Defender ammo with 90 gr. Gold Dot as a good back up. Thing is, in my .380, even the Gold Dots have failed, so technically I don't have a reliable back up, so I only have the Underwood 68 gr. XD ammo for my little AMT. This pistol has, as you mentioned, been so inconsistent with virtually all ammo brands (the XD being the single exception) that if I was out of the XD ammo for some reason (things would have to be pretty bad since the .380 is always my last choice as a carry gun!), I would simply not consider it! I have enough other, more deadly choices of a carry gun that the odds of running low on ammo on the BackUp are nearly zero!
I am convinced thru others testing, including yours, Gun Sams, AZ Airgunner and others, and my own testing, that the Lehigh Xtreme Defender ammo simply cannot be beaten by any other bullet known to man. I use the Underwood XD ammo in *all* of my carry guns , regardless of caliber, simply because I cannot match their velocities with my handloads due to the powders they can get that us peon handloaders simply can't get! I have yet to test any bullet, in any caliber that even comes close to matching the Extreme Defender for reliability, wound channel size and depth of penetration! I suspect it will take something truly nuclear to best these bullets! That said, no one should feel undergunned carrying the XTP bullet in an Underwood case, to protect their life! It's just not MY first choice!
Cheers,
jc
I have to admit, these surprised me a bit. I know XTP’s generally need a decent velocity to expand. Because by design, they are penetrators I do believe. These did a really nice job. Especially for a .380
Surprised the heck out of me.
Wow! I'm impressed with that Underwood .380+P! I, too, have a S&W EZ and it shoots flawlessly! I'll try to find some of that ammo this weekend. Thanks for another great video on ammo quality!
Thank you sir. Love the EZ.😎👍
Some Underwood redemption. I honestly switched my Underwood .38 Special carry over to Buffalo Bore because they were showing numbers out of my actual carry revolver.
Underwood is just as good and half the price
Perfect velocity out of the shorter barrels like the LCP Max and S&W Bodyguard 2.0.
Very good for the 380. If this was typical 380 I would not be as hesitant to carry or encourage to carry it. This does give the 380 carrier comfort & confidence. Don't get me wrong it isn't the 357 Sig, 40, 45 or 10mm power and performance I am after but it isn't the recoil or tool size either. Huge thanks.
Agreed. Shame it isn't all made to perform this way(like it should).
Suprises me!!! More surprised bout this than finding good 10mm that doesn't say Underwood or Buffalo bore!
Yep
Underwood is rock solid.
Fantastic results Tools. If I was still carrying a 380 these would be the go to rounds to load up. Finally someone has loaded a good 380 round.
Be vigilant and always be safe my friend.
Yessir. Have a great weekend!😎👊
I’m glad you tested this load. I’ve got a whole ammo box full of that loading. I stopped carrying it because of all the other XTP tests in 380 were so dismal. Currently carrying the 90 grain +P xtreme penetrator in my Glock 42, might go back to the +P XTP. I get damn near 1200 fps out of the little Glock on my chrono.
I dunno what they did different with these, but it sure worked.
I'm definitely going to be trying some of this in my LCP Max.
Best performance out of a 380 I’ve seen, very impressive especially out of the Max. Haven’t tried the plus p but have used their standard pressure version. Thanks for the jelly test Tools!
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I am glad you are doing many test now with the Max. Besides having a Max, most 380 carry guns have the shorter barrel.
Ya they are magical! I'm surprised too! Great video as always thanks again! Your the best!
Appreciate ya!😎👊
The house brand bullets, I believe because of the outward crimp, had feeding issues in most my tools, even when they were freshly cleaned
👍👍all three rounds looked good…….To me that’s perfect out of the ez for a 380, great expansion and 141/2” of penetration.
Yessir
Great test 'tools, these rounds would be a great choice for my Glock 42.
We all appreciate these tests you do.
Thank you sir.😎👊
The discontinued #152 almost looks like a hybrid of an XTP and a Hydra-Shok Deep. I picked up a few boxes when it was on sale.
Yeah, I think I've seen the bullet before but I can't remember where.
Someone here in the comments mentioned the 152's still in stock at cheaper than dirt. i did snag a couple more there just to have a consistent stock of them for my personal collection, but im guessing when theyre sold out theyre not gonna make them again which is a real bummer.
however it is a very good sign to see these 141's performing great, the only downside is that they are slightly more expensive at underwoods site. might have to keep an eye out whenever they got a sale going on to start my collection of the 141's.
thanks for the testing here tools, much appreciated.
Yeah, I bet you're right. Once what's out in the wild is gone, that's probably the end of the 152.😆
Great video... ❤️ Thanks for all of the hard work that went into this video! ❤
Thank you sir.😎👊
UWs Item # 152 sold on sale for $12.60 a box. A GREAT price for 380, especially for one which works so well. I bought about 1k rounds of it after you proved how effective they were. I didn't purchase any of the XTPs for two reasons. First, #152 was $4 a box cheaper. Second, XTPs need more than average velocity to expand.
I still believe the #152s performed the same or better than the XTPs.
Tools, I really enjoy your tests. I even got my brother watching your videos.
p.s. I was very mistaken. I purchased 400 rounds of the UW .380, #141, +P XTPs and 900 rounds of the other #152s.
Thank you sir. I'm very curious why the 152 is gone.
#152 and #141 definitely performed better than Hornaday Critical Defense FTX
I got my #152 back in December $13.49 shipped.
Xtp's are probably hornady's best bullets as long as they get enough speed.. ive always preferred the XTP over the critical duty & Critical defense.. the 115 grain XTP's in 9mm & 180 grain XTP's in 10mm are some of my favorites
You was wrong!! Sorry you are always right, I just wanted to take this opportunity.😅😅 just messing around. Im like you with the Ruger Max, this one test is the Ruger Max's claim to fame. This is about the only test that validated the Max with a hollow point as a true defensive carry gun.
😂😂😂 I was talkin a bunch of smack on this one too.
Excellent work as usual.
Keep'em coming!
Thank you sir.
Glad to see these do so well in the gel! Me and a friend ordered 8 boxes for 1299 each with free shipping. She will be shooting them from a Glock and S&W bodyguard for me.Thanks Tools 👍🏻
Nice.😎👊
I like the tests. To get expansion in the 380, you need a minimum of 1,000 per sec. I found that to get that speed in the LCP Max, you need +P ammo. Defiant Munitions seems to consistently get that velocity in standard pressure. While I don't shoot much +P at the range with the Max, I carry it as my EDC ammo.
Another awesome test. Ill be picking some of these up if I ever see them.
Thank you sir.😎👊
Most likely gotta order them, depending where you live. They're worth the price!
You're videos are top notch
I like
How they're all kinds similar. There's like a structure to your editing and compostion
You get straight to the point
You care about your tests. Very clear blocks, set up right, good shooting.
Enough funny and humble to be real
Thanks for your videos and tests. You're gathering great info
Only thing i would say is more than one shot for each round.
Thank you sir. Appreciate that!😎👊
@@ToolsandTargets keep it up man. Thank you
@@PresidentoftheManosquareyou are right on the money ! “Nothing but the facts ma’am “
Totally agree with the other comments. You are the King of ammo testing in my opinion! Don't ever change my friend
I use these in Glock 42 and Beretta Pico! Human heart is 4-6" deep, brains if present 1", Nuts .5" !
Gel is NOT a representation of the human body. FBI says you need at least 12" of penetration in gel to reliably reach vitals in a human torso.
You think you can hit a .5" target under the stress of a defensive shooting? There is a reason that a defensive target A-Zone measures 6" x 11".
Human heart is maybe 4-6" deep from a perfect frontal shot...if arms ...any barriers are involved...or a side shot could make the heart 10 or more inches deep
@@kevinrichardson8859Yes, and exactly what the FIB based all their silly testing on. The Platt and Matix shootout in '86'; one Win.Silver Tip stopped an inch from Platts heart after going through his arm( no bone)and traveling through rib and lung.
40sw. with 135/155grn. bullets were not developed that were considered "effective" in all cases and the 165grn." is to snappy!"
Oh well; the FIB keeps corruption alive and well.
How reliable has that barrette Pico been for you?
@larryknowlton7094 It's a great gun! About the size of a Ruger LCP gen 1, but 100x better ! Mine has nite sites and crimson trace light mod !!!
Perfect round to compare to the +P Extreme Defender load they also offer!!
My LCP is loaded with them now,been carrying them around 4 yrs shooting through gallon water jugs filled with wet newspaper, penetrates through 2 1/2 and mushrooms every time 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾
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@ I had to make a decision between these and defiant munition in 380
Wow! Talk about pleasantly surprised! I was a little worried with the velocity from the Max but they did great. I’ll definitely include a couple nice in my next Underwood order for when I throw my Max in my pocket. Awesome test as always good sir👍🇺🇸🇺🇸
Surprised the heck outta me.
Cheaper than Dirt has the Underwood 380 +P Item 152. Just bought 2 boxes of 152 and 2 boxes of Item 141 XTPs
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That discounted one looks just like my lawmen ones from few years ago. Fiocchi has one similar also.
It even made the compression flash in the gel on impact! That's quite the load for a .380 ACP.
Surprised me.
Every time you test 380, I'm amazed at the difference a longer barrel makes in kinetic energy
Thanks for the test, Tools!
It really is a big difference in .380.
That original I order a bunch of it, it does not feed in my Beretta or my Browning. This new round looks like it might feed better. Another great test!
Thank you sir.😎👊
I bought my wife a Sig Rose .380 for her birthday. Iv found a couple of types that performed okay. But after seeing this, I ordered 6 boxes to try out. Great job on the presentation.
I've been using Underwood 9mm+p+ for years with the Speer gold dot bullet. Excellent round.
Been carrying those for about 6 months now in my max after switching from hst. From my own testing, thanks for validation.
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Another good one Tools ! If I need 380 I'm getting Underwood ! I carry my Ruger Max most of the time these days
Thank you sir.😎👊
Thanks so much for following up with this test!. After you tested the 152s I went out and purchased them with an eye towards using them as my carry round. I still have quite a few left, but I'm not very surprised that they no longer carry them. I feel better knowing that once I'm out of the 152s I can just start ordering these. Pretty sure the XTP rounds will be available for some time to come. Great job!
The 380 needs all the help it can get. Check your pistol to see if it approved for +P ammo if you want to use this ammo. I have no idea why you don't have at least 200k subscribers by now. Thanks for another excellent test !
Thank you sir.😎👊
Its probably cause the youtube algorithms keep people away from gun channels. But i totally i agree, quarter million would be good at least!
I'm about to pull the trigger on the S&W Bodyguard 2.0 so I'm researching carry ammo.
The Fiocchi and precision one version are good too.
seems like Underwear makes the best two 380 offerings in these +P XTPs and their Defender rounds
Fruit of The Loom! 💥🍎🍊🍋🍒💥
I wish you would do some testing using the Beretta cheetah. That 4.2 inch barrel makes a big difference on the velocity you get out of your 380 ammunition, and of course, that makes a huge difference in the end performance of the round.
Edit: didn’t notice that you were using the S&W , it has a 4” bbl, don’t it??
Although I've never been a fan of the XTP projectile, I have to admit, I am impressed. Especially for a .380!! I have both a LCP MAX and a Security 380 I keep loaded with either "White Box" FMJs, or Sig V-Crowns. I'm always looking for more effective options for .380 carry rounds (when I'm not carrying my 9mm) so. I might have to check these out!
XTP was originally designed more of a hunting bullet, less expansion, and deep penetrator...at least in the larger calibers...there is a huge difference in the expansion characteristics of various XTPs...the 85 grain .32...expands at 900 fps, the 100 grain .32 is a tough bullet for the 32-20 and the 327 federal. XTPs are very accurate bullets, and I reload them quite a bit...that is why they came out with the flex tip bullets...they were designed more as a carry bullet. The .380 flex tip will expand at 1,000 fps almost every time...even lower.
I see some of these as birthday presents for my tiny little daughter in law! :) They look good! Thank you for these good tests, Tools!
The MAX has a place in my rotation and these performed great.
I just ordered a few boxes off there website at $19.99 per box.
Thanks Tools
I think that I am confused. I see a 380 +p 90 grain 1200 fps on their website. Maybe they are available again. Great review. Made me go buy a couple of boxes.
Great job as always! Appreciate all that you do. Ronnie, Princeton, West Virginia.
Thank you sir.😎👊
You should check out the 380 HST that come in the 50 round box, they're supposed to be loaded hotter than the 20 round box version. They're rated at 1000 fps while the "micro" version is rated at 900 something fps. I dont know if theres any real difference but I read an article saying that the 50 round box was different and claimed they would pass the FBI protocol. Ill try to find the article
These are the rounds that I carry with in my Ruger LCP Max.
Would like to see a head to head comparison between this one and the HST with cloth barrier. I have both of these and others, but had been using the UW Xtreme Defender and Penetrator pretty much exclusively in any 380’s. However, I’m now having trouble with UW and especially that solid Xtreme ammo. Some has come to me already with serious bullet set back. And other rounds have been pushed back by just one chambering in even guns with ultra smooth feeding. That’s obviously not acceptable for high end, high tech, high dollar ammo! I have to consider all the boxes I have in hand useless and defective now. We will see what Underwood does about that when I get back in touch with them. I’ve been pushing UW ammo for many years to many people. But how this goes may affect that. I’m hoping they replace it all and that the new batches do not have this problem! I’ll try to update when I have a reply.
So far I have not “noticed” this in their XTP and other calibers I have stocked up. But I’ll be checking it all to make sure none of it is the same. As a comparison, I’ve never had this happen with any HST, Hornady or other major brands.
Been watching the videos. Did you ever figure what was causing the Ruger LCP MAX to shoot low?
Nice! I just went to check my stock for .380 and I have 8 boxes of the item 152. Have to get some of that XTP too. Thanks!
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I believe "Item 141" is the best round IF they always expand. I think the Extreme Penetrator is the best round if you factor in consistency. If I had a 380 auto, I would probably use the E.P. That round gives you certain penetration and modest disruption every time.
I carry the Taurus tcp 380 as a backup. Seems like Underwood has it figured out. Thanks Tools!!!
For sure.😎👊
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As always, you're the best ammo reviewer on the internet!
They used to make a 102 grain Golden Sabre plus p load as well...still have a couple boxes of them. I get right around 1,200 fps from the +p XTPs out of my Bersa Thunder and the S&W EZ. I have been using them for years, and use them as a benchmark for my reloads. Their plus p 45 Colt ammo is really good too. The the 325 hardcast is some of the best ammo you can get, short of reloading.
I still have some of those Golden Saber loads.😎👍
Lawman FMJ in 380 from an LCP sized barrel. Reliability is #1, penetration is #2, the JHP and boutique brands have the potential to cause feed issues in an already iffy small 380. Most people buy a box of the JHP or other and shoot a mag or two and call it good. Not a good idea friends. Use the Lawman and shoot what you carry. YMMV, and I love your knowledge and testing procedures…..
Nice stuff for a 380. Will have to get some for my LCP.
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The 152 bullet looks like the ones loaded in the Fiocchi Defense Dynamics factory branded 380's. I've chronoed these from a Bersa Thunder at 890-920 and got very little expansion but good penetration due to the lack thereof. That extra velocity really makes the difference.
They did great in the UW +P loading for sure.
Yeah that's impressive, thanks for all the testing you do for us.
I have a couple boxes of those 152s and I was trying to figure out what they were. I am going to reach out to Underwood but I think they look a heck of a lot like the projectile in Norma Safeguard ammunition. Surprisingly I haven’t been able to find any testing or reviews of that, maybe it’s new. Nice test, I used to completely dismiss .380 but I recognize the convenience of being able to put my LCP max in a pocket holster and an extra mag in my other pocket during those hot summer months when concealability is key and it’s likely it’s only going to have to go through a t shirt.