What is Glock 42 ammo?🧐
The ammunition (ammo) used for the Glock 42 is .380 ACP ammunition. This is also known as .380 Auto or 9x17mm, and it’s a popular cartridge for concealed carry and self-defense due to its compact size and manageable recoil. When purchasing ammunition for your Glock, make sure it is specifically labeled as .380 ACP or .380 Auto to ensure compatibility and safety.
Features📝
The features of ammo for a Glock 42 are primarily determined by the specific type and brand of ammunition you choose. However, there are some general characteristics:
✅ Bullet Type: You can find various bullet types, including Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) for target shooting and Hollow Point (HP) for self-defense. FMJ rounds are designed for penetration and typically have a round nose, while HP rounds are designed to expand upon impact, creating larger wound channels in self-defense scenarios.
✅ Grain Weight: These ammunition come in different grain weights, typically ranging from 90 grains to 100 grains. The grain weight affects factors like recoil, velocity, and penetration. Lighter grain weights may produce less recoil but offer slightly reduced stopping power, while heavier grain weights may have more recoil but potentially better penetration.
✅ Reliability: Regardless of the specific features, it’s essential to select ammunition known for its reliability. Glock pistols, including the Glock 42, are known for their reliability, but using quality ammunition can further enhance this reliability.
✅ Local Regulations: Be aware of any local or state regulations that may affect the type of ammunition you can purchase or possess.
Benefits🔥
The benefits of using appropriate ammunition for a Glock 42, or any firearm, are essential for safe and effective shooting. Here are some key benefits:
- ✴️ Matched ammunition can help improve the accuracy of your Glock. Factory-loaded ammunition is typically manufactured with consistent quality control, ensuring uniform bullet weights, powder charges, and primer sensitivity. This consistency can contribute to tighter shot groups.
- ✴️ If you’re using your pistol for self-defense, choosing the right ammunition is critical. Self-defense ammunition often includes features like hollow points (HP) designed to expand upon impact, creating larger wound channels and increasing stopping power. This can improve the pistol’s effectiveness in protecting you or your loved ones.
- ✴️ .380 ACP ammo options are designed to have lower recoil, making them more manageable, especially for shooters who are sensitive to recoil or those who have limited hand strength. Reduced recoil can lead to better accuracy, especially during rapid follow-up shots.
- ✴️ Factory-loaded ammunition is manufactured with consistent specifications, which means you can expect the same performance from one round to the next. This consistency is crucial for target shooting, competition, and training where predictability is desired.
Is .380 enough for self-defense?🤔
Whether it is enough for self-defense is a topic of ongoing debate among firearm enthusiasts, experts, and self-defense advocates. The suitability of a .380 ACP largely depends on various factors, including shot placement, ammunition selection, and the individual’s proficiency and comfort with the firearm. Here are some key considerations:
| ➡️ Shot Placement: Shot placement is crucial in any self-defense scenario. Regardless of caliber, well-placed shots to vital areas are more effective than poorly placed shots from a larger caliber. Adequate training and practice are essential to ensure accurate shot placement in high-stress situations. |
| ➡️ Ammunition Selection: The choice of ammunition can significantly impact the effectiveness of a .380 ACP firearm for self-defense. Some ammunition is specifically designed for personal protection and features hollow-point (HP) bullets. These bullets are designed to expand upon impact, creating larger wound channels and increasing stopping power. It’s crucial to select high-quality, reputable self-defense ammunition when carrying a .380 ACP for personal protection. |
| ➡️ Penetration and Expansion: When selecting .380 ACP self-defense ammunition, look for rounds that provide adequate penetration (typically 12-18 inches in ballistic gelatin) and reliable expansion. A balance between penetration and expansion is essential for stopping a threat effectively. |
| ➡️ Recoil Control: This cartridge generates less recoil than larger calibers, making it more manageable for some shooters, especially those with limited hand strength or recoil sensitivity. This can result in better shot placement, as follow-up shots may be easier to control. |
| ➡️ Firearm Reliability: The Glock 42, chambered in .380 ACP, is known for its reliability. A reliable firearm is critical for self-defense. Ensure your firearm functions flawlessly with your chosen self-defense ammunition through proper testing and maintenance. |
| ➡️ Distance and Scenario: Consider the likely self-defense scenarios you may encounter. Most self-defense situations occur at close distances, where shot placement and quick follow-up shots are essential. However, if you anticipate needing a firearm for defense at longer distances, a larger caliber may be preferable. |
| ➡️ Personal Comfort and Proficiency: Your comfort and proficiency with your chosen firearm and ammunition are vital. If you are more accurate and confident with a .380 ACP pistol than with a larger caliber firearm, it may be a better choice for you. |
📌 It’s essential to balance the factors mentioned above and choose the right ammunition for your specific needs and abilities. Ultimately, any firearm used for self-defense should be accompanied by proper training and practice to ensure your safety and the safety of others.
Best Glock 42 Ammo Reviews
1# FTX – Hornady Critical Defense – .380 ACP – 90 Grain
View on OpticsPlanet View on LuckyGunner
Hornady Critical Defense .380 ACP 90-grain FTX Centerfire Pistol Ammunition is reliable and perfect for self-defense. Using this product, our team found that the FTX bullet eliminates clogging that is common with other hollow point bullets and the nickel-plated case is resistant to corrosion. With special propellants to reduce recoil and muzzle flash, this ammo is perfect for peak accuracy. Don’t miss the opportunity to get an excellent performance – order it just now!
2# JHP – Remington HTP – .380 ACP – 88 Grain – 20 Rounds
View on OpticsPlanet View on LuckyGunner
Searching for a powerful and precise .380 ACP round? Note Remington High Terminal Performance ammunition. These rounds are loaded with Kleanbore priming and brass, generating enough force to bring down any small animal or human game at close range. With a muzzle velocity of 990fps and a muzzle energy of 191ft/lbs, these rounds pack a serious punch. And with terminal weights of 88 grains or less, they’re some of the most reliable in the business. So whether you need ammo for plinking or self-defense, this .380 ACP ammo is a great choice.
3# BJHP – Remington Ultimate Defense Compact – .380 ACP – 102 Grain – 20 Rounds
View on OpticsPlanet View on LuckyGunner
Get the right ammo for your defense needs with Remington Compact Handgun Defense Ammunition. Because of our knowledge gained through practice this big gun terminal performance ammo is designed with the traditional concealed-carry permit holder in mind. The company provides big gun terminal performance for all revolvers and short-barreled pistols. The rounds are specifically engineered to give every shooter optimal expansion and penetration even through heavy clothing.
4# JHP -Remington UMC Handgun – .380 ACP – 88 Grain – 100 Rounds
View on OpticsPlanet View on LuckyGunner
When you choose Remington UMC Centerfire Handgun Ammunition, you’re getting a name you can trust for all your shooting needs. This .380 ACP Ammo is the perfect size for use with short or micro (.380 ACP) caliber handguns and features a waterproof case mouth and primer to provide maximum reliability. All of the cases are plated in nickel to reduce oxidation, improve your feeding, and improve your extraction. Each bullet is specially treated with powders to reduce muzzle flash each time you shoot. With quality like this, find more of the highest quality in shooting, hunting, and military surplus from Remington.
5# FMJ – Sig Sauer Elite Performance – .380 ACP – 100 Grain – 50 Rounds
The Sig Sauer Full Metal Jacket Centerfire Pistol Ammo is a great choice for those who are searching for a combination of performance and affordability. Our research has shown that these rounds are manufactured to SIG SAUER exacting standards and feature durable copper-jacketed bullets that stay with the lead at impact. In addition, the solid brass cartridges and dependable primers combine to provide reduced barrel fouling and more reliable functioning.
6# JHP – Sig Sauer Elite V-Crown – .380 ACP – 90 Grain – 20 Rounds
When you need the very best in personal defense ammunition, consider the Sig Sauer Elite V-Crown. This outstanding round is designed to provide superior accuracy, reliability, and performance, thanks to its innovative V-Crown stacked hollow point design. The V-Crown provides a smaller additional hollow point cavity behind the main cavity, giving you greater control over expansion at all effective distances and velocities. It also features a unique toothed cannelure located halfway up the shank of the bullet, which more effectively locks the jacket and core in place. This feature provides exceptional structural integrity in a jacketed design, ensuring maximum weight retention and outstanding terminal performance.
7# HP – Liberty Ammunition Civil Defense – .380 ACP- 50 Grain – 20 Rounds
If you’re seeking the ultimate in self-defense ammunition, pay attention to the Liberty Ammunition Civil Defense .380 ACP. This round is designed to deliver maximum stopping power, with reduced over-penetration for optimal performance. The 50-grain hollow point bullet provides superior accuracy and penetration, while the 20-round count ensures you have plenty of ammunition for any situation. Whether you’re a law enforcement officer or carrying for self-protection, it is a perfect choice.
8# JHP – Federal Premium Hydra-Shok – .380 ACP – 99 Grain – 20 Rounds
Federal Premium’s Hydra-Shok Deepa is a self-defense round that you can count on. This 380 Auto cartridge is designed to penetrate deep through common barriers like drywall and plywood, delivering optimal stopping power to your target. The bullet features a robust center post and a core design that ensures deep penetration, while the improved primer and powder design provides reliable ignition. Whether you’re facing an intruder in your home or a would-be attacker on the street, Hydra-Shok Deep has the power to defend yourself and your loved ones. Order now and be prepared for whatever life throws your way.
9# FMJ – Federal American Eagle – .380 ACP – 95 Grain – 50 Rounds
View on OpticsPlanet View on LuckyGunner
Demanding a reliable and affordable option for your .380 ACP firearm? Federal American Eagle is an excellent choice! Based on our observations these rounds offer similar performance to self-defense and competition loads, making them ideal for training purposes. With a familiar feel and realistic practice, you’ll be hitting your target in no time. Plus, at such an affordable price, you can stock up without breaking the bank. So don’t wait – order your ammo today!
10# JHP – Federal Personal Defense Punch – .380 ACP – 85 Grain – 20 Rounds
View on OpticsPlanet View on LuckyGunner
Searching for premium self-defense ammunition that will deliver a knockout blow? Check out Federal’s Personal Defense Punch. This .380 ACP load features a skived jacket and soft lead core bullet that produces ideal expansion and penetration in most common self-defense situations. The quality brass and sealed primer ensure reliable feeding and ignition, while the strong muzzle velocity and energy make this an excellent choice for self-defense. Stock up today and be prepared for whatever comes your way.
11# FMJ – Winchester USA Handgun – .380 ACP – 95 Grain
Winchester’s USA White Box Handgun .380 ACP ammunition is perfect for recreational shooting and target practice. As a result of our tests, we determined that this high-quality ammo is loaded with a 95-grain full metal jacket bullet, brass case, and centerfire primer. It has a muzzle velocity of 955 ft/s and 192 ft-lbs of muzzle energy. This quality-made ammunition is an awesome choice for your needs!
12# JHP – Fiocchi Defense Dynamics – .380 ACP – 90 Grain – 50 Rounds
Want to get quality and consistency in your ammunition? Think about Fiocchi Shooting Dynamics ammo. This new production, non-corrosive ammo comes in boxer-primed, reloadable brass cases and is perfect for the high-volume shooter or hunter. With 50 rounds per box, you’ll be able to spend more time shooting and less time reloading. And because Fiocchi products are made in Ozark, Missouri, and Italy, you can be assured of their quality and craftsmanship.
13# JHP – Cor Bon Ammo – .380 ACP – 90 Grain – 20 Rounds
View on OpticsPlanet View on LuckyGunner
Wishing for an edge in self-defense situations? JHP Cor Bon Ammo is the answer. This heavyweight .380 ACP round offers incredible stopping power, thanks to its 90-grain bullet and super-fast velocity. When every second counts, you can count on this ammo to get the job done quickly and effectively. This 20-round box of ammunition is perfect for keeping on hand for emergencies, or regular range practice. Either way, you’ll appreciate the quality and performance that this ammo offers. Don’t be caught without the right ammo when it matters most. Pick up a box of such ammo today!
14# FMJ – PMC 380A Bronze – .380 ACP – 90 Grain – 50 Rounds
View on OpticsPlanet View on LuckyGunner
Would you like to buy reliable, performance-driven ammunition that won’t let you down? Take a look at PMC Bronze. Our analysis of this product showed that it is ideal for everything from serious competition to casual paper punching, PMC Bronze delivers the goods every time. With a wide range of bullet weights and calibers to choose from, there’s sure to be a PMC Bronze load that’s perfect for your needs. Don’t wait – order it just now!
15# TMJ – Speer Lawman Handgun Training – .380 ACP – 95 Grain – 50 Rounds
View on OpticsPlanet View on LuckyGunner
Searching for reliable and high-quality training ammunition for your recruits? Note Speer Lawman Handgun Training .380 ACP 95-grain Total Metal Jacket Centerfire Pistol Ammunition. After experimenting with it these rounds are faultless for learning how to shoot with live rounds, offering the same point of aim and feel as comparable self-defense loads. With reloadable cases, you can practice using your new ammunition over and over again, ensuring that your recruit develops the skills you need to be armed with accurate and reliable self-defense rounds.
16# JHP – Ammo Signature – .380 ACP – 90 Grain – 20 Rounds
The Ammo Signature line of .380 ACP ammunition is the outstanding choice for target shooters and plinkers alike. This 100-grain Total Metal Coating (TMC) bullet is designed for superior accuracy and reduced recoil, making it a great choice for both new and experienced shooters. The brass casing ensures reliable feeding and ejection, while the FMJ bullet design provides consistent performance on the range. With 50 rounds per box, this ammo is perfect for a day of shooting fun.
17# FMJ – Ammo Streak – .380 ACP – 100 Grain – 20 Rounds
When you train with Ammo Streak .380 ACP 100-grain Tracer-Like Full Metal Jacket Brass Cased Centerfire Visual Pistol Ammunition, you’re getting the same benefits as traditional tracer rounds without the fire hazard. These non-incendiary rounds provide instant visual feedback so you can see your bullet path and correct your aim as needed. With 20 rounds in each box, you’ll have plenty of ammo to practice your shooting skills. Whether you’re at the indoor or outdoor range, this ammo is a great choice for target practice.
18# SCHP – Barnes TAC-XP – .380 ACP – 80 Grain – 20 Rounds
If you need the best self-defense ammunition on the market, look no more but Barnes TAC-XPD ammunition. Loaded with 80-grain TAC-XP jacketed hollow point bullets, this ammo is designed to deliver maximum tissue and bone destruction upon impact. After we tested it in practice the all-copper bullet design ensures that there is no chance of jacket/core separation, providing you with the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re prepared for anything. Don’t leave your safety to chance – choose this ammo.
19# FMJ – Magtech – .380 ACP – 95 Grain – 50 Rounds
Magtech Ammunition is a reliable and affordable option for your .380 ACP needs. Their brass-cased, boxer-primed, and non-corrosive propellant rounds are superb for target practice, plinking, and even competition shooting. With over 90 years of experience in the ammunition industry, Magtech knows a thing or two about quality control. Their rigorous manufacturing process guarantees that every cartridge is assembled with the highest quality components for maximum reliability. So whether you’re just getting into the sport or are an experienced marksman, Sport Ammunition from Magtech is sure to meet your needs.
380 ACP vs 9mm💡
The comparison between .380 ACP (Auto Colt Pistol) and 9mm (9x19mm Parabellum) is a common one in the realm of handgun calibers. Both are popular choices for concealed carry and self-defense, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a comparison of the two calibers:
| 🔷 .380 ACP: | 🔷 9mm: | |
| 💥 Bullet Diameter: | ⚡ The bullet diameter of .380 ACP is typically .355 inches (9mm). | ⚡ The bullet diameter of 9mm is also .355 inches. |
| 💥 Case Length: | ⚡ The case length of .380 ACP is shorter than that of 9mm. | ⚡ The 9mm cartridge has a longer case. |
| 💥 Recoil: | ⚡ .380 ACP generally produces less recoil compared to 9mm, making it more manageable for shooters with limited hand strength or recoil sensitivity. | ⚡ 9mm has more recoil but is still considered manageable for most shooters. |
| 💥 Capacity: | ⚡ Firearms chambered in .380 ACP often have smaller magazine capacities compared to 9mm pistols due to the smaller cartridge size. | ⚡ 9mm pistols typically have higher magazine capacities, providing more rounds in each magazine. |
| 💥 Stopping Power: |
⚡ While .380 ACP can be effective for self-defense with proper shot placement and quality ammunition, it generally has less stopping power compared to 9mm.
|
⚡ 9mm is known for its effectiveness in stopping threats. It offers better penetration and wound ballistics compared to .380 ACP. |
| 💥 Ammunition Availability and Variety: | ⚡ .380 ACP ammunition is also available, but the variety of self-defense loads and specialty ammo options may be somewhat more limited compared to 9mm. | ⚡ 9mm ammunition is widely available, and there’s a broad selection of bullet types, weights, and loads, including self-defense, target, and competition ammo. |
| 💥 Firearm Options: | ⚡ While .380 ACP handguns are available, they are generally smaller and more compact, often favored for concealed carry. | ⚡ There is a vast selection of handguns chambered in 9mm, ranging from compact concealed carry pistols to full-size duty and competition guns. |
| 💥 Cost: | ⚡ .380 ACP ammunition may be slightly more expensive than 9mm ammo on average. | ⚡ 9mm ammunition is often more affordable and available in bulk quantities, making it a cost-effective choice for training. |
📢 In summary, the choice between .380 ACP and 9mm largely depends on your specific needs, preferences, and circumstances. 9mm is generally considered to offer better stopping power and a wider range of firearm options, while 380 ACP may be chosen for its reduced recoil and smaller, more easily concealable handguns. Regardless of caliber, shot placement and firearm reliability are key factors in self-defense, so practice and training are essential.
FAQ😎
Conclusion😊
Glock 42 ammo is a hot topic lately. This article was meant to help you make the best decision possible when purchasing ammunition. It included product reviews and tips from experts in the field. We hope that you found this information useful and are now better equipped to choose the right ammo for your needs. Thanks for reading!🥰❤️🔥
Affiliate Disclosure: Rotorm.com sometimes gets paid for listings, through sponsors or affiliate programs like Amazon, Optics Planet, Lucky Gunner, Brownells, Cabelas, Rainier Arms, 5.11 Tactical, Bass Pro Shop, etс. Clicking a link helps keep Rotorm.com free, at no extra cost to you!
About the author: Each article on our site is written by experts in survival and tactical equipment, gun enthusiasts, extreme travelers, military, law enforcement and desperate professionals, read about the author at the bottom of the article or visit "About Us" page.
Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency.
I’m interested in hearing from Glock 42 owners who have found ammunition that reliably cycles in their firearms. I understand that proper shooting technique plays a role as well, but I’m on a quest to find the ideal self-defense ammo for peace of mind, even in unlikely scenarios. Your insights and recommendations would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
I’ve been using – Remington HTP – .380 ACP – 88 Grain – 20 Rounds without any problems for several years now. It is an excellent choice!
You might want to consider exploring manufacturers like Sig Sauer. They tend to produce ammunition with higher velocities, and their rounds are often round-nosed. Sig Sauer, for instance, offers an FMJ – Sig Sauer Elite Performance – .380 ACP – 100 Grain – 50 Rounds that could be of interest.
I recently purchased a Glock 42 last Saturday and managed to score a fantastic deal on a brand new version 3 Glock 42 for just $350. This marks my first .380 ACP handgun, as I’ve primarily shot 9mm in the past and currently own an S&W M&P 9mm with a trigger job. I’m curious to know what the best range ammunition is for this Glock 42. Any insights on this matter would be greatly appreciated.
I generally use JHP – Federal Premium Hydra-Shok – .380 ACP – 99 Grain – 20 Rounds, and it’s been my primary choice. It’s cost-effective and I’ve fired nearly 1500 rounds in the past couple of months, and it’s performed flawlessly without a single issue.
I’m looking for recommendations on good ammunition that reliably feeds through a Glock 42. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance.
In my experience, the most reliable ammunition I’ve come across for the Glock 42 is the JHP – Federal Personal Defense Punch – .380 ACP – 85 Grain – 20 Rounds. I’ve extensively tested various JHP (Jacketed Hollow Point) rounds, and these seem to perform the best with zero issues or hang-ups.
I prefer to stick with FTX – Hornady Critical Defense – .380 ACP – 90 Grain. These projectiles are designed to optimize expansion and create effective wound channels.
I recently purchased my first Glock, the Glock 42 chambered in .380 Auto. As a single mother of two, this is my first firearm, and I’m quite new to the world of ammunition. I’d greatly appreciate any guidance on what would be the best ammunition for the Glock 42 chambered in .380 Auto. Thank you in advance for your assistance.
When it comes to self-defense (SD) ammo, I’ve exclusively used FTX – Hornady Critical Defense – .380 ACP – 90 Grain, and it has performed perfectly in my Glock 42. I haven’t had the opportunity to test other brands of ammunition in this firearm.
🔍 When choosing self-defense ammunition for your Glock 42, it’s essential to test several different loads to ensure they cycle reliably and accurately in your specific firearm.
🛑 Pay attention to factors such as recoil management, muzzle rise, and the ability to achieve rapid follow-up shots during your testing.
🎯 Additionally, keep in mind that practice and training with your chosen self-defense ammunition are crucial. Regular practice helps ensure you are proficient with your firearm and ammunition combination, giving you the confidence and peace of mind you’re seeking for self-defense scenarios.