Federal Premium Hydra-Shok Deep Review
As a firearms enthusiast, I was excited to get my hands on the Federal Premium Hydra-Shok Deep 38 Special Ammunition (130gr JHP). In this review, I’ll share my experience with this product, highlighting its pros and cons, and providing an overall assessment of its performance.
Package and Handling
The ammo arrived packaged in a standard 20-round box, which was well-protected in its original packaging. The box features a clear plastic window, allowing me to easily examine the contents without having to open it. The packaging was sturdy, and the ammo itself was snugly seated in its individual cases. I appreciated the extras, such as the waterproof seal and the transparent plastic protector that cover the box’s top and bottom, respectively.
Performance
I put the Federal Premium Hydra-Shok Deep through its paces, shooting it in my trusty Glock 20 (26) and experiencing the following:
• Accurate and Consistent Performance: The Hydra-Shok Deep delivered impressive accuracy, with most shots grouping tightly at 15 yards. Even at longer distances, the ammo maintained a decent spread, making it suitable for self-defense and target shooting.
• Limp Wrist Recovery: Commendably, the Hydra-Shok Deep exhibited a consistent limp wrist recovery, which is crucial for reliability and reliability. This feature helps to prevent perforation, providing a smooth, consistent cycle each time.
• Expansion and Penetration: Federal’s proprietary hollow-point design ensured reliable expansion and penetration. Upon impact, the rounds emitted a distinct "zing" as they deformed and expanded to maximum diameter. The resulting wound channels demonstrated effective penetration, substantiating the Hydra-Shok’s reputation for deep penetration.
• Thermal Shock: A test involving rapid, multiple shots showed little to no issues with thermal shock, which is a common pitfall in some modern ammunition. The Hydra-Shok Deep handled the extras with ease, demonstrating stability and adaptability under duress.
• Prone to Copper Fouling: It’s worth noting, however, that during extended use, the copper jacketed-lead core was prone to accumulating fouling. This is a minor quibble, as it can be managed with regular cleaning and lubrication.
Verdict
In conclusion, the Federal Premium Hydra-Shok Deep 38 Special Ammunition has proven to be an excellent choice for various applications, including self-defense, target shooting, and competition. Its accuracy, reliability, and expansion capabilities outweigh any minor drawbacks. I would recommend this product to anyone seeking dependable performance from their 38 Special ammunition.
Pros:
• Accurate and consistent performance
• Limp wrist recovery
• Expansion and penetration
• Thermal shock resistance
• Effective self-defense capabilities
Cons:
• May be prone to copper fouling
If you’re in the market for a reliable 38 Special cartridge, I would highly recommend the Federal Premium Hydra-Shok Deep. Its impressive performance and durability make it an excellent addition to any firearms enthusiast’s arsenal.