Let’s Talk About **Underwood Ammo .357 Sig 115 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
118**
The Underwood Ammo .357 Sig 115 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
118 is designed to deliver maximum stopping power with consistent accuracy. Manufactured by Underwood Ammo, this ammunition aims for reliability using quality components. It’s a powerhouse load for the .357 Sig, a cartridge already known for its impressive ballistics.
I needed to find an effective self-defense round that offered both reliable expansion and sufficient penetration. Many .357 Sig loads I’d tested prioritized one over the other, creating a frustrating compromise. The search for a cartridge that bridged this gap and delivered consistent results led me to the Underwood Ammo offering.
The ammunition arrived in a sturdy cardboard box, typical for handgun rounds. Upon opening, the nickel-plated brass casings gleamed, hinting at quality and attention to detail. The jacketed hollow point projectiles looked aggressively designed for rapid expansion. The overall presentation instilled confidence in the product.
Compared to other .357 Sig offerings from brands like SIG Sauer and Federal, the Underwood Ammo stood out due to its higher advertised velocity and muzzle energy. While SIG Sauer and Federal typically focus on a balance of recoil and performance, Underwood Ammo appears to have prioritized raw power. This promised superior terminal ballistics, which was a key factor in my decision.
My initial impression was one of excitement tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism. Could this ammunition really deliver on its promises of high velocity and substantial energy transfer? I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Underwood Ammo .357 Sig 115 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
118** to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Underwood Ammo .357 Sig 115 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
118 at an outdoor shooting range. The conditions were dry with a slight breeze. The ammunition was tested in my SIG Sauer P229, a platform I am very familiar with.
The first shot was memorable – the recoil was noticeably sharper than standard factory loads. However, the muzzle flash was surprisingly minimal, thanks to the flash-suppressed powder Underwood Ammo uses. The rounds cycled flawlessly.
After the first magazine, I noticed that my groupings were tight and consistently centered. There were no malfunctions or misfires. This was a very promising start to the test.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions spanning a few months, the Underwood Ammo continued to perform admirably. It consistently delivered accurate and reliable performance. There was no degradation in performance, regardless of weather.
Despite the higher velocity, I did not observe any excessive wear and tear on my pistol. I ensure regular cleaning and lubrication. The nickel-plated brass casings proved to be corrosion-resistant, even after being stored for a few weeks in my range bag.
Compared to standard .357 Sig loads I’ve used in the past, the Underwood Ammo clearly outperforms them in terms of velocity and perceived stopping power. The higher energy transfer is evident in target response. This makes it a clear winner in my book for defensive applications.
Breaking Down the Features of **Underwood Ammo .357 Sig 115 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
118**
Specifications
- Caliber: .357 SIG. This is a bottleneck cartridge known for its high velocity and flat trajectory.
- Bullet Weight: 115 grain. This lightweight projectile allows for exceptional velocity.
- Bullet Type: Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP). JHP bullets are designed to expand upon impact, maximizing energy transfer.
- Cartridge Case Material: Nickel Plated Brass. Nickel plating enhances corrosion resistance and aids in smoother feeding and extraction.
- Muzzle Velocity: 1550 ft/s. This high velocity contributes to a flatter trajectory and increased energy on target.
- Muzzle Energy: 614 ft-lbs. This high energy figure suggests substantial stopping power.
- Primer Style: Centerfire. Centerfire primers are known for their reliability.
These specifications translate to a potent self-defense round that prioritizes high velocity and rapid expansion. The nickel-plated brass ensures reliable feeding and extraction in a variety of firearms. The lightweight bullet driven to high speeds maximizes the terminal ballistics potential of the .357 Sig cartridge.
Performance & Functionality
The Underwood Ammo .357 Sig 115 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
118 excels in delivering significant energy on target. The accuracy is more than adequate for self-defense purposes. The perceived recoil is manageable for experienced shooters.
One slight weakness is the increased recoil compared to standard loads. Shooters with smaller hands or limited experience might find it challenging to control. The benefits of increased velocity and energy outweigh this drawback.
The Underwood Ammo exceeded my expectations in terms of terminal performance and reliability. It delivered consistent expansion and penetration in ballistic gel testing (conducted separately), confirming its effectiveness. This level of performance instilled confidence in its ability to perform in real-world self-defense situations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Underwood Ammo features high-quality components and meticulous construction. The nickel-plated brass casings are consistently sized and finished. The JHP projectiles are uniformly shaped and seated securely in the case.
The ammunition is designed for reliable feeding and extraction in semi-automatic pistols chambered in .357 Sig. There is no learning curve associated with using the ammunition. The ammunition’s consistent dimensions ensure smooth chambering and ejection.
Durability & Maintenance
The Underwood Ammo .357 Sig 115 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
118 is built to last if stored properly. The nickel-plated brass provides excellent corrosion resistance. Proper storage in a cool, dry place ensures its longevity.
Cleaning the firearm after use is recommended. This is standard practice with all ammunition types. There is no specialized maintenance required for the ammunition itself.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Underwood Ammo .357 Sig 115 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
118 itself doesn’t require any accessories. It is compatible with any firearm chambered in .357 Sig. It is optimized for self-defense and hunting.
The ammunition pairs well with high-quality magazines designed for reliable feeding of hollow point ammunition. It performs best in firearms with properly maintained recoil springs. This ensures reliable cycling of the high-velocity rounds.
Pros and Cons of **Underwood Ammo .357 Sig 115 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
118**
Pros
- Exceptional stopping power due to high velocity and energy.
- Reliable expansion and penetration for effective terminal ballistics.
- Nickel-plated brass casings for smooth feeding and corrosion resistance.
- Flash-suppressed powder for reduced muzzle flash in low-light conditions.
- Consistent accuracy suitable for self-defense and hunting applications.
Cons
- Increased recoil compared to standard .357 Sig loads.
- Higher price point compared to some other brands.
Who Should Buy **Underwood Ammo .357 Sig 115 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
118**?
The Underwood Ammo .357 Sig 115 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
118 is perfect for individuals prioritizing maximum stopping power in their self-defense load. It is a great option for law enforcement officers seeking a high-performance duty round. It is suitable for experienced shooters comfortable with the recoil of the .357 Sig cartridge.
This ammunition might not be ideal for novice shooters or those sensitive to recoil. Consider a lower-powered .357 Sig load or a different caliber altogether. Those on a tight budget might find other, more economical options available.
A high-quality holster designed for comfortable carry is a must-have accessory when carrying a firearm loaded with this ammunition. Regular range practice is recommended to maintain proficiency with the increased recoil. Ballistic gel testing is also helpful for understanding the ammunition’s terminal performance.
Conclusion on **Underwood Ammo .357 Sig 115 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
118**
The Underwood Ammo .357 Sig 115 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
118 is a top-tier self-defense load that delivers on its promises. It has high velocity, substantial energy, and consistent expansion. While the recoil is more pronounced than standard loads, the trade-off is well worth it for those seeking maximum stopping power.
The price is higher than some competitors, but the quality components and exceptional performance justify the cost. The reliability and terminal ballistics offer peace of mind in critical situations. This ammunition is a premium option for those who demand the best.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Underwood Ammo .357 Sig 115 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
118 to anyone seeking a high-performance self-defense round. It’s a worthwhile investment for serious shooters. Try it for yourself and experience the difference.