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Handgun Ammunition

Gunner HQ in Sheffield, AL provides a complete range of Handgun Ammunition for shooters who demand consistent accuracy, clean performance, and reliability. Our selection includes rounds for Semi Auto Handguns, trusted Revolvers, compact Derringers, and specialty platforms like AK Pistols and AR Pistols. Whether you’re preparing for defense, concealed carry practice, or competition, our ammunition is designed to match the needs of your firearm. Stay prepared with Handgun Magazines, and don’t overlook other essentials like Holsters for secure carry or Laser Sights for improved accuracy. We also recommend checking our Rifle Ammunition and Shotgun Shells for a well-rounded stockpile. From practice rounds to premium self-defense cartridges, Gunner HQ is the trusted source in Sheffield, AL for handgun ammunition. Shop online today for fast delivery.

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Everything You Need to Know About Handgun Ammunition

At Gunner HQ, located in Sheffield, Alabama, we provide a complete selection of Handgun Ammunition for shooters who want accuracy, clean performance, and dependable results. Our inventory supports a variety of firearms, including semi-auto pistols, reliable revolvers, compact Derringers, and specialty platforms such as AR and AK pistols. Whether you are training at the range, carrying for defense, or preparing for competition, having the right handgun ammunition is essential for consistent performance and safety.

What Exactly Is Handgun Ammunition?

Handgun ammunition is designed specifically for pistols and revolvers. Each cartridge includes the case, primer, propellant, and bullet, making it a self-contained unit ready to fire. Compared to rifle or shotgun rounds, handgun ammunition is optimized for shorter barrels, lower recoil, and effective use at close to medium ranges. Quality ammunition ensures reliable ignition, accurate shot placement, and the right balance between penetration and stopping power.

Key Parts That Make Up Handgun Ammunition

Every round of handgun ammunition contains four components:

  • Case: The shell that houses all other parts. Brass is most common, but steel and aluminum options exist. 
  • Primer: A small ignition point struck by the firing pin to spark the propellant. 
  • Propellant (Gunpowder): Burns quickly to generate pressure that propels the bullet down the barrel. 
  • Projectile (Bullet): The part that exits the barrel and impacts the target, available in multiple designs for training, hunting, or defense.

Understanding these parts helps shooters make informed choices when selecting cartridges for their firearms.

Different Categories of Handgun Ammunition

Semi-Auto Pistol Ammunition

Semi-auto pistols require ammunition that cycles smoothly and burns cleanly. Popular calibers include 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP. Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) rounds are economical for practice, while hollow point loads are designed for defense. Choosing the right type ensures proper feeding and consistent results.

Revolver Ammunition

Revolvers remain popular for their simplicity and reliability. Common calibers include .38 Special and .357 Magnum, which can be used for target practice or personal defense. Larger calibers such as .44 Magnum are often selected for hunting or when maximum stopping power is needed.

Derringer Ammunition

Compact Derringers offer unique caliber options ranging from .22 LR for light training to .410/.45 Colt combinations for versatile use. Ammunition selection depends on the intended role, whether for discreet carry, backup defense, or limited target shooting.

AR & AK Pistol Ammunition

AR and AK pistols use rifle calibers in compact pistol configurations, such as 5.56 NATO, .223 Remington, .300 Blackout, and 7.62x39mm. These platforms require quality ammunition to ensure proper cycling and accuracy in shorter barrels.

How Bullets Differ From Handgun Ammunition

The terms “bullet” and “ammunition” are often confused. Ammunition refers to the complete cartridge, which includes the case, primer, propellant, and projectile. The bullet is only the projectile portion that leaves the barrel. Every bullet is part of ammunition, but ammunition itself is more than just the bullet.

3 Common Bullet Designs for Handguns

Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) Rounds

FMJ rounds have a lead core encased in a copper jacket. They are the standard choice for practice and competition due to their affordability and smooth feeding. FMJs do not expand on impact, making them less suitable for self-defense.

Hollow Point (HP) Rounds

HP bullets are designed to expand upon impact, creating larger wound channels and transferring more energy to the target. This expansion reduces the risk of over-penetration, making hollow points a trusted option for personal defense.

Soft Point (SP) Rounds

SP bullets combine penetration with controlled expansion. Their exposed lead tip allows them to expand more gradually than hollow points. Soft points are often used in hunting handguns where both penetration and terminal performance are important.

Best Practices for Storing Handgun Ammunition

Proper storage ensures handgun ammunition remains safe and reliable. Keep cartridges in a cool, dry environment away from sunlight and extreme heat. Sealed ammo cans or plastic storage boxes with desiccants protect against moisture and corrosion. Avoid storing ammunition in vehicles or damp areas where humidity can shorten shelf life. With correct storage, handgun ammunition can last for decades.

Leading Brands for Handgun Ammunition

At Gunner HQ, we carry handgun ammunition from trusted names such as Federal Ammunition, Hornady, Winchester, Remington, Speer, and Fiocchi. Federal and Winchester provide reliable practice and defense loads. Hornady is known for precision-engineered defensive rounds. Speer offers the popular Gold Dot series for law enforcement and concealed carry. With these brands, shooters can expect consistency and confidence every time they train or defend.

Choosing Handgun Ammunition for Defense, Training, and Competition

Defensive Handgun Ammunition

Defensive loads such as hollow points, jacketed hollow points (JHP), and polymer-tipped bullets are engineered for expansion and stopping power. Popular calibers include 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP, providing trusted performance for both home defense and concealed carry.

Training Ammunition

FMJ cartridges are the standard choice for training and range work. They are affordable, reliable, and allow for high-volume shooting. By using FMJs, shooters can practice fundamentals without the expense of premium defensive rounds.

Competition Ammunition

Competitive shooters often choose match-grade ammunition for tighter groupings and consistent accuracy under timed conditions. Popular calibers like 9mm and .45 ACP are available in specialized loads to meet the demands of competitive events.

Expert Advice on Picking the Right Handgun Ammo

Selecting the right ammunition starts with checking the caliber marked on your firearm. For training, FMJs are economical and effective. For defense, hollow points provide the expansion needed to stop threats efficiently. Revolver shooters should consider recoil and penetration when selecting loads. Pair your ammunition with Handgun Magazines, Holsters, and Laser Sights for a complete setup.

Why Gunner HQ Is Your Best Source for Handgun Ammunition

At Gunner HQ in Sheffield, Alabama, we carry handgun ammunition for every purpose, from affordable training rounds to premium defensive loads. Our commitment to quality, trusted brands, and expert guidance ensures that every shooter finds the right cartridge for their firearm. Shop handgun ammunition online today at Gunner HQ and shoot with confidence.

Handgun Ammunition FAQs

Can I use any 9mm ammunition in my pistol?

At Gunner HQ, we recommend using only the caliber marked on your pistol. While most 9mm pistols can fire standard 9mm Luger rounds, they may not handle specialty loads like +P unless rated for them. Always confirm your firearm’s specifications before use.

How much handgun ammunition should I keep on hand?

We suggest keeping enough ammunition for both training and defense. Many shooters keep several hundred rounds of FMJ for practice and at least two to three boxes of hollow points for defense. Stockpiling depends on your shooting habits and local regulations.

What is +P handgun ammunition?

+P ammunition is loaded to higher pressure than standard rounds, producing more velocity and energy. Gunner HQ carries +P in calibers like 9mm and .38 Special, but it should only be fired in pistols rated for +P use. Check your firearm’s manual before choosing these loads.

Does handgun ammunition expire?

Handgun ammunition does not have an expiration date. At Gunner HQ, we advise customers to store their ammo properly in a cool, dry environment. When stored correctly, handgun cartridges can remain reliable for decades without losing performance.

Can I reload my handgun ammunition casings?

Yes, brass handgun casings can often be reloaded multiple times if inspected for wear. Gunner HQ reminds customers that reloading requires the right equipment, knowledge, and safety precautions. Many shooters prefer new factory ammunition for defense while using reloads for practice.