Low Recoil Ammo

[ADDO]

I was recently offered a good deal on some ammo that was marked "low recoil". I didn't grab it because I was unsure how it would work in a semi-auto pistol.

Anyone familiar with so called "low recoil" ammo?

[J.P.]

What was the brand?

[ADDO]

Federal hydrashock if memory serves.

[F16mickey]

If it's federal hydrashock low recoil it is probably their "Personal Defense" ammo or it's predicesor (sp). I have fired some in 9mm and 45 auto and it cycles reliably. They are usually light weight bullets ie. 165gr .45 and 105gr 9mm. It would be fine for training but I tend to perfer heavy weight bullets for SD.

[J.P.]

For self defense ammunition I would choose the best proven performing load.
I doubt you would notice whether or not it was 'low recoil' in a threat situation.
Of course I've never been in a 'gunfight' (just shot at) so I can't truly validate that.
Perhaps some of our gunfight vets on here will tell us the truth?

Shooting IDPA matches,I find the recoil characteristics of the 147gr 9mm loads very mild even when compared to the 115gr Blazer.

[F16mickey]

I agree, the only time low recoil would be a selling point for me would be if they made a round that recoils like a 22lr but is as effective as a 10mm 180gn gold dot!

[ADDO]

Thanks guys. My concern was that any ammo marketed as low recoil might not have enough "umph" to cycle my pistol properly. I never thought 9mm had much recoil anyway, so I passed on the chance to buy this stuff. Next time I see it, I'll give it a try.