Underwood Ammo .38 Special +P 125 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition 129 42% Off Review

First Impressions of **Underwood Ammo .38 Special +P 125 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition

129 42% Off**

The Underwood Ammo .38 Special +P 125 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
129 42% Off
promises a potent combination of controlled expansion and reliable cycling in a classic revolver cartridge. Underwood Ammo is known for pushing the boundaries of performance, and this particular loading aims to deliver significant stopping power in a platform often perceived as underpowered. With its jacketed hollow point projectile and nickel-plated brass casing, it appears to be a high-quality defensive round.

I was looking for a reliable and effective self-defense round for my snub-nosed revolver, a firearm I often carry concealed. Standard .38 Special loads can sometimes lack the punch needed for decisive stopping power, and I wanted an option that offered a noticeable improvement without sacrificing controllability. The promise of +P performance combined with the reliability Underwood Ammo is known for made this round an attractive option.

The ammunition arrived in a standard cardboard box, neatly packed with twenty rounds. The nickel-plated brass casings gleam, a visual cue to the quality and corrosion resistance Underwood Ammo aims for. The jacketed hollow point projectiles are cleanly formed, with a deep cavity designed for rapid expansion upon impact. My initial impression was one of careful manufacturing and attention to detail, inspiring confidence in its potential performance.

Compared to standard pressure .38 Special rounds, this Underwood Ammo promises significantly higher velocity and energy. I also considered similar +P loads from other manufacturers like Buffalo Bore and Speer Gold Dot, but Underwood Ammo’s reputation for pushing velocity without sacrificing safety, coupled with the attractive price point (especially with the 42% off), ultimately swayed my decision. The Buffalo Bore offerings are undeniably potent, but their recoil can be excessive in lightweight revolvers.

My first impression was excitement tempered with a healthy dose of caution. The specifications suggest a significant increase in performance, but I was eager to see how it translated in real-world shooting and expansion tests. The discounted price made it an even more attractive proposition, a chance to potentially acquire premium defensive ammunition at a reasonable cost.


Real-World Testing: Putting **Underwood Ammo .38 Special +P 125 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition

129 42% Off** to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test was at an indoor shooting range, using my Smith & Wesson Model 642, a lightweight snub-nosed revolver. I also brought along a heavier, all-steel S&W Model 10 to compare recoil characteristics and assess accuracy. The range offered a controlled environment to evaluate the ammunition’s performance.

The difference in recoil between this Underwood Ammo +P load and standard .38 Special rounds was immediately noticeable, especially in the lightweight Model 642. It wasn’t unmanageable, but it definitely required a firmer grip and more focused recoil control. In the heavier Model 10, the recoil was more manageable, though still more pronounced than standard pressure ammunition.

The ammunition fed and extracted flawlessly in both revolvers. There were no signs of overpressure, such as flattened primers or sticky extraction. I did find I needed to adjust my grip slightly to maintain accuracy with the increased recoil, but after a few cylinders, I was able to maintain consistent groupings.

The only surprise was how much louder the Underwood Ammo was compared to standard .38 Special. The higher velocity creates a more pronounced muzzle blast and report, something to consider in a self-defense scenario. The flash wasn’t excessive, which is important for low-light situations.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and approximately 200 rounds fired, the Underwood Ammo .38 Special +P 125 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
129 42% Off
has proven to be remarkably consistent and reliable. I’ve experienced zero malfunctions of any kind across multiple range sessions. The nickel plating has held up well, with no signs of corrosion or tarnishing.

The durability appears excellent. The nickel-plated brass casings eject cleanly, showing no signs of excessive wear or stretching. The primers remain well-seated even after firing from the lightweight revolver, indicating a well-balanced load.

Cleaning is straightforward, with standard solvent and brushing effectively removing powder residue. The nickel plating makes wiping down the casings easier compared to standard brass. Regular cleaning is essential, especially after firing +P ammunition, to maintain optimal revolver performance.

Compared to my previous carry ammunition, a standard pressure hollow point, the Underwood Ammo offers a noticeable increase in perceived stopping power based on recoil and muzzle energy. While I haven’t had to use it in a real-world self-defense situation (thankfully), the consistent accuracy and reliability inspire confidence in its ability to perform if needed. The recoil does make follow-up shots slightly slower in the lightweight revolver, a trade-off for the increased power.

Breaking Down the Features of **Underwood Ammo .38 Special +P 125 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition

129 42% Off**

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: Underwood Ammo.
  • Caliber: .38 Special +P.
  • Number of Rounds: 20.
  • Bullet Type: Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP).
  • Bullet Weight: 125 grain.
  • Cartridge Case Material: Nickel Plated Brass.
  • Muzzle Velocity: 1250 ft/s.
  • Muzzle Energy: 434 ft-lbs.
  • Application: Hunting.
  • Package Type: Box.
  • Primer Style: Centerfire.
  • Lead Free: No.

These specifications are crucial for understanding the ammunition’s performance potential. The +P designation indicates a higher chamber pressure, resulting in increased velocity and energy. The jacketed hollow point design is intended for controlled expansion and rapid energy transfer upon impact, maximizing stopping power. The nickel-plated brass case enhances corrosion resistance and facilitates smoother feeding and extraction.

Performance & Functionality

The Underwood Ammo .38 Special +P 125 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
129 42% Off
performs admirably, delivering consistent accuracy and reliable expansion (based on gel testing I viewed online). The increased velocity significantly enhances the terminal ballistics compared to standard .38 Special loads. It provides enhanced stopping power suitable for defensive situations.

The primary strength is the substantial increase in muzzle energy and velocity compared to standard .38 Special rounds. A potential weakness is the increased recoil, which may be challenging for some shooters, particularly with lightweight revolvers. However, this is a trade-off for the improved ballistic performance.

The ammunition meets and, in some respects, exceeds expectations, particularly considering its price point (especially with the discount). The consistent accuracy and reliability, combined with the potent terminal ballistics, make it a solid choice for self-defense. The heightened recoil should be carefully considered before choosing this ammunition for everyday carry.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, with clean, consistent manufacturing evident in each round. The nickel-plated brass casings are visually appealing and functionally superior to standard brass. The ammunition is easy to load and handle.

The round itself, being a .38 Special, is inherently ergonomic. The nickel-plated brass, however, adds a touch of smoothness that enhances loading. There is no real learning curve; it functions just like any other .38 Special cartridge, only with greater recoil and muzzle report.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper storage in a cool, dry environment, this ammunition should last for many years. The nickel-plated brass provides excellent corrosion resistance. The high-quality components and careful manufacturing contribute to its long-term durability.

Maintenance is minimal; simply wipe down the exterior of the cartridges occasionally to remove any dust or debris. It’s important to clean the firearm thoroughly after each shooting session to remove powder residue and prevent any potential corrosion. Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining optimal performance and longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

No accessories come with the ammunition itself, as it is a self-contained product. The ammunition is compatible with any revolver chambered in .38 Special +P. Users can, however, select different grips for their revolvers to mitigate the increased recoil, and good speed loaders are highly recommended.

The Underwood Ammo .38 Special +P 125 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
129 42% Off
is universally compatible with .38 Special revolvers rated for +P ammunition. Aftermarket grips and speed loaders are common accessories for revolvers and can enhance the user experience. There are no inherent customization options specific to the ammunition itself.

Pros and Cons of **Underwood Ammo .38 Special +P 125 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition

129 42% Off**

Pros

  • Substantial increase in muzzle velocity and energy over standard .38 Special.
  • Consistent accuracy and reliable feeding/extraction.
  • Jacketed hollow point design promotes controlled expansion and rapid energy transfer.
  • Nickel-plated brass casing enhances corrosion resistance and facilitates smooth cycling.
  • Excellent value for money, especially with the 42% discount.

Cons

  • Increased recoil may be challenging for some shooters, especially with lightweight revolvers.
  • Louder muzzle blast compared to standard .38 Special ammunition.


Who Should Buy **Underwood Ammo .38 Special +P 125 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition

129 42% Off**?

This ammunition is perfect for individuals seeking a significant increase in stopping power from their .38 Special revolvers, particularly for self-defense purposes. It’s also suitable for hunters looking for a potent small-game hunting load in a revolver. Those with experience shooting +P ammunition and comfortable with managing increased recoil will benefit the most.

Individuals sensitive to recoil or those using very lightweight revolvers may want to skip this product or practice extensively with it before carrying it for self-defense. It might also not be the best choice for novice shooters. Those who prioritize maximum concealment and minimal printing might find the muzzle flash a concern.

Must-have accessories include a quality holster, speed loaders (for faster reloads), and comfortable grips that help manage recoil. Consistent practice at the range is crucial to becoming proficient with this ammunition and managing its recoil effectively. Choosing a heavier frame revolver would help as well.

Conclusion on **Underwood Ammo .38 Special +P 125 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition

129 42% Off**

The Underwood Ammo .38 Special +P 125 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
129 42% Off
is a potent and reliable self-defense round that offers a significant improvement in ballistic performance compared to standard .38 Special ammunition. The increased recoil is a factor to consider, but the consistent accuracy, reliable feeding, and enhanced stopping power make it a worthwhile trade-off for experienced shooters. The value proposition is excellent, especially given the 42% discount.

The price is definitely justified. It delivers near .357 Magnum performance in a .38 Special package without the ear-splitting noise of some .357 Magnum rounds. The reliable expansion, feeding, and consistent power make it worth the money for a serious defensive round.

I would definitely recommend this ammunition to anyone seeking a high-performance .38 Special +P load for self-defense or hunting. The Underwood Ammo name carries weight. The reliability and performance are top-notch.

If you are looking to maximize the potential of your .38 Special revolver, the Underwood Ammo .38 Special +P 125 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
129 42% Off
is a must-try. Head to your local gun store or online retailer and experience the Underwood Ammo difference for yourself. Just be prepared for the extra kick!

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