Is Plus P Ammo Bad for Your Gun?
When it comes to choosing the right ammunition for your firearm, there are many factors to consider. One of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is selecting the right caliber, and within that, choosing the right type of ammo. One popular type of ammo is Plus P (also known as +P), which is designed for higher performance and better ballistic efficiency. But is +P ammo bad for your gun?
What is Plus P Ammo?
Plus P ammo, also known as Higher Pressure ammo, is a type of ammunition designed to operate at higher pressure levels than standard ammo. This increased pressure is achieved by using a higher muzzle velocity, which allows for better penetration, expansion, and overall performance. The main difference between standard ammo and +P ammo lies in the maximum allowable average pressure (MAP) limit.
Standard Ammo MAP Limit: Typically, standard ammo has a MAP limit of around 35,000-40,000 PSI (pounds per square inch).
Plus P Ammo MAP Limit: +P ammo, on the other hand, operates at a much higher pressure limit, usually between 45,000-60,000 PSI.
Pros of Plus P Ammo
Before diving into the potential drawbacks, let’s take a look at some of the benefits of +P ammo:
- Better Ballistic Efficiency: Higher pressure means more force is applied to the projectile, resulting in improved trajectory, penetration, and overall accuracy.
- Better Expansion: The increased energy transferred to the target enhances expansion, leading to improved terminal performance.
- Improved Stopping Power: +P ammo’s higher kinetic energy allows for quicker and more effective stopping power.
- Enhanced Accuracy: Some shooters have reported improved accuracy with +P ammo due to the increased pressure, which reduces muzzle rise and enhances firearm stability.
Cons of Plus P Ammo
Despite the benefits, there are some potential drawbacks to using +P ammo:
- Increased Wear and Tear: Higher pressure can increase the wear and tear on your firearm’s components, particularly the barrel and internal mechanisms.
- Gun Specific: Not all guns are designed to handle the increased pressure of +P ammo. Some firearms, especially older or less-reliable models, may experience reliability issues or even mechanical failures.
- Limited Compatibility: Not all parts, such as springs and buffers, are designed for +P ammo. If these parts are not up to the task, you may experience issues with proper function.
- Firearm Maintenance: The increased wear and tear may require more frequent cleaning and maintenance to prevent premature wear on your firearm’s components.
- Operator Skill Required: +P ammo may require more operator skill, particularly when it comes to recoil management and follow-up shots.
Gun Maintenance and Upgrades
When using +P ammo, it’s essential to ensure that your firearm is properly maintained and upgraded to handle the increased pressure. Some suggested upgrades include:
- Newer Barrel: Upgrading to a newer barrel with a better finish can help reduce wear and corrosion.
- Stronger Springs: Replacing original springs with stronger, designed-for-+P ones can help handle the increased pressure.
- Stiffer Buffers: Updating your firearm’s buffers with stiffer, designed-for-+P ones can help reduce recoil and improve stability.
- Fiber Optic Sights: Installing fiber optic sights can help improve visibility and tracking during rapid fire.
When to Use Plus P Ammo
While +P ammo can be an effective choice for some situations, there are certain scenarios where its use may be questionable or even counterproductive:
- Self-Defense: For self-defense, where accuracy and reliability are critical, standard ammo might be a better choice due to the potential for increased recoil and wear.
- Competitive Shooting: Competitive shooters may want to choose standard ammo to reduce potential wear and tear on their firearms.
- Novice Shooters: Beginner shooters may want to stick with standard ammo to help build their skills and adjust to the recoil.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while +P ammo has its benefits, it is not suitable for all situations or firearms. Before adopting +P ammo, make sure to consider the pros and cons, and:
- Check Your Owner’s Manual: Review your firearm’s owner’s manual to ensure it is rated for +P ammo use.
- Check Part Compatibility: Verify that your firearm’s parts, particularly springs and buffers, are designed for +P use.
- Regularly Maintain Your Firearm: Perform regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent premature wear.
By understanding the advantages and limitations of +P ammo, you can make an informed decision about when and how to use it safely and effectively.
+P Ammo Summary
Pros:
- Better ballistic efficiency
- Improved expansion
- Enhanced accuracy
- Improved stopping power
Cons:
- Increased wear and tear
- Gun-specific concerns
- Limited compatibility
- Firearm maintenance
When to Use +P Ammo:
- Hunting
- Target shooting
- Competitive shooting
When to Avoid +P Ammo:
- Self-defense
- Competitions
- Novice shooters
