Has anyone here run any type of "stopping power" tests for a load similar to the following one?
Wait - before you post that the 44 Mag penetrates way too much, kicks too much, and booms too much for urban self-defense: This is actually a .44 Special strength loading.
The revolver choice is as a backup gun in the event that my .45 ACP pistol is broken or otherwise unavailable. And I subscribe to using a full length cartridge for a .44 Special load because:
1) It saves wear and tear on the cylinder,
2) It's easier to stock just the Magnum brass, and
3) By always using magnum length brass, I don't have to twiddle with my reloading setups as much.
I have settled upon the Hornady XTP bullet for its reliable expansion over a wide range of velocities, and I suspect that the 180 grain offering would minimize excessive penetration for an urban environment.
This load is mild in pressure, and it burns its propellant completely before leaving a 6.5 inch pistol barrel, per what my QuickLoad software tells me; so there should be less blinding flash and noise - a consideration for defensive loads fired at night (when most home defense incidents occur).
The load, apparently only 24,855 psi Max Pressure:
11.5 gr. Unique, Hornady XTP 180 gr. #44050, C.O.L. 1.600 "
1373 fps / 753 ft. lbs. (6" Taurus),
1522 fps / 927 ft. lbs. (10.5" Super Blackhawk)
OK - the Question: Any info on a 180 gr. XTP .44 pill at 1300 fps?
It seems to me that this would not penetrate three walls and your car, but that it would drop a home invader in his tracks and therefore end the attack. Any info at all?
Oh, yeah - and I've heard the argument about lawyers tearing you up for rolling your own in a defensive load. Please, let's not go over that argument again, here; I don't know that we'll be able to buy defensive ammo before long, so that is not a topic of concern for this post.
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