9MM
The most popular handgun cartridge in the world. Excellent balance of capacity, recoil, terminal performance, and cost. Standard issue for most US law enforcement agencies and NATO militaries. Modern +P loads push muzzle energy past 400 ft-lbs.
Best For
Ballistics (Typical Factory Load)
🔧 Handloading Data
Reference load data for experienced reloaders. Always start at the start charge and work up. Consult official manuals before loading.
| Bullet | Powder | Start | Max | Velocity | COAL | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 115 gr (7.5 g) FMJ | Hodgdon CFE Pistol | 5.3 gr 0.34 g |
6.0 gr 0.39 g |
1,150 fps | 1.125 | Hodgdon |
| 115 gr (7.5 g) FMJ | Alliant Bullseye | 4.2 gr 0.27 g |
4.8 gr 0.31 g |
1,100 fps | 1.125 | Alliant |
| 124 gr (8.0 g) FMJ | Hodgdon HP-38 | 4.3 gr 0.28 g |
4.9 gr 0.32 g |
1,090 fps | 1.150 | Hodgdon |
| 124 gr (8.0 g) FMJ | IMR Target | 3.7 gr 0.24 g |
4.2 gr 0.27 g |
1,020 fps | 1.150 | IMR |
| 124 gr (8.0 g) FMJ | Alliant Power Pistol | 5.5 gr 0.36 g |
6.2 gr 0.4 g |
1,155 fps | 1.150 | Alliant |
| 147 gr (9.5 g) FMJ | Hodgdon Titegroup | 3.4 gr 0.22 g |
3.9 gr 0.25 g |
920 fps | 1.155 | Hodgdon |
| 147 gr (9.5 g) JHP | Alliant Unique | 3.8 gr 0.25 g |
4.3 gr 0.28 g |
940 fps | 1.155 | Alliant |
| 147 gr (9.5 g) FMJ | IMR 4756 | 3.6 gr 0.23 g |
4.1 gr 0.27 g |
910 fps | 1.155 | IMR |
📐 Measurement Guide for Reloaders
Measured in grains (1 grain ≈ 0.065 grams) using precision digital or mechanical scales. Maintaining strict powder weight is crucial for safety and velocity consistency.
Total length from case base to bullet tip. Checked with digital calipers. Must be within manufacturer's specified range to fit and feed from your firearm's magazine.
Precision shooters measure to the ogive — the curved part of the bullet that first contacts the rifling — for more accurate bullet seating depth and consistency.
Brass stretches with firing. Measure case length to know when to trim. Use headspace comparators to check shoulder bump-back during sizing.
The grip the brass has on the bullet. Measured with ball micrometers by comparing neck wall thickness before and after bullet seating.
Inspect fired brass for over-pressure: flattened primers, ejector marks, case head expansion. If unsure, reduce charge and consult your load manual.
⚠️ Always consult established reloading manuals (Hodgdon, Hornady, Lyman) for your specific bullet and powder combinations. For experienced reloaders only.
Technical Specifications
| Type | Pistol |