Let’s Talk About Hornady FMJ Pistol Bullets, 9mm, .355, 115 Grain, Full Metal Jacket Round Nose
The Hornady FMJ Pistol Bullets, 9mm, .355, 115 Grain, Full Metal Jacket Round Nose are a staple for any shooter looking for reliable performance and consistent accuracy in their 9mm handguns. These bullets, manufactured by Hornady, a name synonymous with quality in the ammunition world, are designed for target practice, training, and general range use. Their full metal jacket (FMJ) construction and round nose profile ensure smooth feeding and reliable cycling in a wide variety of firearms, making them a versatile choice for both novice and experienced shooters alike.
I needed a consistent and affordable projectile for high-volume training at my local range. I was tired of inconsistent results with cheaper, bulk-packaged ammunition and wanted something that would group tighter and cycle reliably in my Glock 19 and Sig Sauer P320. These Hornady bullets seemed to be the perfect balance of quality and cost for my needs.
Upon opening the box, I was immediately impressed by the uniform appearance of the bullets. They were neatly packed in a sealed plastic bag, ensuring they were clean and free from any contaminants. The jackets had a consistent, bright sheen, and I could feel the quality in the smooth, even weight of each bullet as I handled them.
I considered other FMJ bullets from brands like CCI Blazer and Winchester White Box. However, I’ve always valued Hornady’s reputation for precision and consistency, even in their more economical offerings. I felt the slight price premium was worth the increased confidence in the bullet’s performance.
My first impression was one of quiet confidence. These bullets looked like they meant business. No dents, no dings, no inconsistencies; just clean, well-made projectiles ready to be loaded and sent downrange.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady FMJ Pistol Bullets, 9mm, .355, 115 Grain, Full Metal Jacket Round Nose to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at an indoor shooting range, primarily focusing on accuracy and reliability at distances of 7, 15, and 25 yards. The weather conditions were controlled, so I could focus solely on the performance of the bullets and my firearms. I shot approximately 200 rounds through each of my 9mm pistols, a Glock 19 and a Sig Sauer P320.
The Hornady FMJ bullets performed flawlessly, exhibiting smooth feeding and consistent cycling in both firearms. There were no jams, malfunctions, or any signs of over-pressure. The recoil felt consistent, and the report was what I expected from a standard 115-grain 9mm load.
These bullets were exceptionally easy to work with, seating perfectly in the cases during the reloading process. The consistency in bullet diameter made the entire loading procedure smooth, predictable, and confidence-inspiring. This is particularly helpful when loading higher volumes for practice.
I was pleasantly surprised by the accuracy I achieved with these bullets. Groups were tighter than what I was used to with cheaper bulk ammunition. I experienced no unexpected deviations or inconsistencies.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, putting well over 2,000 rounds of these Hornady FMJ bullets downrange, I can confidently say that they hold up exceptionally well. The bullets continue to deliver consistent performance, with no noticeable degradation in accuracy or reliability. I observed no changes in cycling or feeding.
There’s been no sign of excessive wear and tear on my firearms due to these bullets. Cleaning is straightforward, with minimal fouling compared to some cheaper FMJ options. The consistent jacket material contributes to this easier cleaning process.
Maintenance is limited to standard firearm cleaning after each range session. I pay close attention to the barrel, breach, and slide, ensuring that no residue from the Hornady FMJ bullets remains. So far, the cleaning process has been quite simple, and I’ve not needed to use any harsh solvents or excessive scrubbing.
In comparison to my previous experience with bulk-packaged ammunition, the Hornady FMJ Pistol Bullets, 9mm, .355, 115 Grain, Full Metal Jacket Round Nose outperform significantly in terms of consistency and accuracy. I’m consistently achieving tighter groups and experiencing fewer malfunctions, which translates to more productive and enjoyable range time.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady FMJ Pistol Bullets, 9mm, .355, 115 Grain, Full Metal Jacket Round Nose
Specifications
The Hornady FMJ Pistol Bullets, 9mm, .355, 115 Grain, Full Metal Jacket Round Nose boast the following key specifications:
- Caliber: 9mm (.355): This is the standard diameter for 9mm Luger ammunition, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of 9mm firearms.
- Bullet Weight: 115 grain: This is a popular weight for 9mm, offering a good balance of velocity, recoil, and accuracy.
- Bullet Type: Full Metal Jacket Round Nose (FMJ RN): This design ensures reliable feeding and reduces the risk of bullet deformation during cycling.
- Jacket Material: Tin plated steel: A durable material that provides excellent protection for the lead core and ensures smooth feeding.
- Sectional Density: 0.13: This value indicates the bullet’s penetration capability.
- Construction: Copper Jacket: Ensuring uniformity and reliability.
These specifications are critical to the overall performance of the bullets. The consistent diameter ensures proper chambering, while the weight and shape contribute to accuracy and recoil management. The FMJ construction prevents deformation and ensures reliable cycling, especially in semi-automatic pistols.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady FMJ Pistol Bullets, 9mm, .355, 115 Grain, Full Metal Jacket Round Nose perform admirably in all key areas. Accuracy is excellent for target practice and training. Reliability is virtually flawless, with consistent feeding and cycling in a wide range of 9mm firearms.
The bullet’s strengths lie in its consistency and reliability. It consistently delivers accurate results. The FMJ design ensures smooth feeding and prevents malfunctions.
There’s little to improve upon with these bullets, considering their intended purpose. They are not match-grade competition bullets, so pinpoint accuracy at extreme distances is not their primary focus. Some might prefer a heavier grain bullet for specific purposes.
These bullets meet and even exceed expectations for their intended purpose. They deliver consistent accuracy, reliable cycling, and smooth feeding in a variety of 9mm firearms, making them ideal for target practice and training.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Hornady FMJ Pistol Bullets, 9mm, .355, 115 Grain, Full Metal Jacket Round Nose is simple and functional. The FMJ round nose profile is optimized for reliable feeding.
The build quality is excellent. The materials used are durable and consistent. The bullets feel substantial and well-made.
The bullets are exceptionally user-friendly. There’s no learning curve involved. They can be loaded and used with confidence.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hornady FMJ Pistol Bullets, 9mm, .355, 115 Grain, Full Metal Jacket Round Nose should last indefinitely if stored properly. The jacket material is resistant to corrosion and degradation.
Maintenance is minimal. Clean the firearm after each use, as with any ammunition. The Hornady FMJ bullets produce relatively little fouling.
Accessories and Customization Options
These are bullets, so there are no accessories that come with them. However, they can be used with a wide variety of reloading components, such as different brass casings and primers.
These Hornady bullets are compatible with a vast range of 9mm reloading equipment. This includes popular brands like Dillon Precision, RCBS, and Lyman. They can be combined with various powders and primers to achieve desired performance characteristics.
Pros and Cons of Hornady FMJ Pistol Bullets, 9mm, .355, 115 Grain, Full Metal Jacket Round Nose
Pros
- Consistent Accuracy: Provides tighter groupings compared to many bulk ammunition options, improving training effectiveness.
- Reliable Feeding: The round nose FMJ design ensures smooth cycling and minimizes the risk of malfunctions in various 9mm firearms.
- Clean Burning: Produces less fouling than some cheaper alternatives, making firearm maintenance easier and less frequent.
- Excellent Value: Offers a good balance of quality and affordability, making it ideal for high-volume training.
- Consistent Quality Control: The name Hornady is known for precise and uniform manufacturing.
Cons
- Lower ballistic coefficient than more specialized bullet designs.
- Not ideal for self-defense, with limited expansion characteristics compared to hollow-point rounds.
Who Should Buy Hornady FMJ Pistol Bullets, 9mm, .355, 115 Grain, Full Metal Jacket Round Nose?
The Hornady FMJ Pistol Bullets, 9mm, .355, 115 Grain, Full Metal Jacket Round Nose are perfect for:
- Target shooters: Those who enjoy recreational shooting and want consistent accuracy at the range.
- Training enthusiasts: Individuals who participate in regular firearms training and need reliable, affordable ammunition for high-volume practice.
- Reloaders: Those who reload their own ammunition and seek a high-quality, consistent bullet for 9mm cartridges.
Those seeking match-grade accuracy for competitive shooting or those prioritizing self-defense with expanding ammunition should consider other options.
Must-have accessories would include a good reloading press (if reloading), quality brass casings, and appropriate primers.
Conclusion on Hornady FMJ Pistol Bullets, 9mm, .355, 115 Grain, Full Metal Jacket Round Nose
The Hornady FMJ Pistol Bullets, 9mm, .355, 115 Grain, Full Metal Jacket Round Nose are a reliable, consistent, and affordable choice for target practice and training. They offer excellent value for the price, delivering consistent accuracy and smooth feeding in a wide range of 9mm firearms. They are a strong offering for those looking for consistent, mid-tier ammo to suit high-volume usage.
The price is definitely justified, considering the quality and performance of these bullets. They outperform many cheaper alternatives. They are worth it, given their ability to improve training effectiveness and reduce malfunctions.
I would absolutely recommend these bullets to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable 9mm FMJ option. I personally appreciate the quality and consistency they bring to my shooting sessions.
If you’re ready to elevate your training and target practice, the Hornady FMJ Pistol Bullets, 9mm, .355, 115 Grain, Full Metal Jacket Round Nose are an excellent choice. Get yourself a box (or several!) and experience the Hornady difference.